Hiccup at Islip Lock, but then on to Titchmarsh

Thrapston to Titchmarsh Farm Bridge, River Nene, 2.5 miles 1 lock

We left Thrapston late morning planning on trying to moor somewhere before Titchmarsh.  I wanted to explore the Nature Reserve there.  Yesterday I had walked to the southern end of it from Thrapston, and it looked wonderful.

At Islip lock here we couldn’t get the box open to operate the buttons to raise and lower the guillotine.   The special Nene Key is not very substantial, and we were scared to ‘force the issue’ trying to get it open.  A phone call to the environment agency and within 20 minutes one of their guys turned up and, using his key, turned it and gave it a hell of a yank.  Hey presto done!  We will remember that on the way back.

He saw us through the lock and waved us on our way.. very friendly. Continuing on we came to the start of the Nature Reserve, and I was desperately looking for somewhere to stop.  Too many stinging nettles and the banks were high. This part of the river serves as a flood plain, hence the higher banks.  Then THAT bridge came into view…. EEK!  “We definitely won’t get under that as we are”  I proclaimed!  But an ideal place to stop just 20 yards or so before it… I was delighted!  The views are spectacular across to the lakes from here.

It is going to take Vic quite some effort to tear me away from this place! .   A late lunch then I was off with Lucy. For three hours I walked right round the Nature Reserve, taking time out to look at the wildlife in the birdwatch towers all round the place.  I saw all sorts of wild fowl – grebes, snipe, tufted ducks, pochards, as well as the fantastic sight of a buzzard.   The walk on the far side of the lake is again part of the Nene Way.  Never a dull moment on this long distance route….

Returning I walked via the village of Aldwincle who’s shop still survives although the Post Office has gone.  Spent the rest of the light hours just enjoying the late afternoon sun on the back deck..