Tidal Thames

Today we did the Tidal Thames! Left the basin above Brentford, about 7.45 and met a couple who are regular Thames travellers, Lyn and Glynn on nb Minty. They were returning to the Kennet and Avon, and gladly helped us through the first automated lock (despite some hiccups, not paying attention and chatting too much) and then we came down to the Thames lock which we then shared with them. They gave us some useful tips and we followed them all the way to Teddington lock. We tore along at breakneck speed, all of 6 miles an hour!! Andy telephoned the lockkeeper at Teddington in advance of our arrival and he assured us he would have the lock open and to watch for the green light. Of course when we got there the red light was on and there were 4 boats in total awaiting entry. Having then let out 4 boats he beckoned us in. We duly placed our ropes around the bollards and awaited the rush of water we had been warned about by other boaters. No. This was a gentle rise of only 3 ft and we were out, onto the non-tidal Thames. We bought a license for 1 month as we want to take our time, obviously you can do the stretch to Oxford a lot quicker but we don't do fast! Arrival time was approx. 9.15.

 

Yarmouth Belle

 

After partaking of breakfast at Teddington, we cruised along to Kingston Upon Thames and after mooring up went for a walk to Hampton Court Palace through the park. Unfortunately there is the RHS flower show on at Hampton Court and you cannot access the palace from the park! So we retraced our steps, and went shopping instead! Like you do!
We did however literally bump into some deer hiding in the long grass of the park. They were very tame and just stared at us, as if to say, you can't come this way, go back!
We may well try and visit Hampton Court tomorrow, see how the feet feel!