Branston to Alrewas.

Travelled 4.95 miles, worked 4 locks in a time of 2 hours 35 minutes.

Last nights sunset.

We set off from Branston at 8.40 am.

We passed Marpessa, now we do not actually know the owners Emma and Nick, but the boat used to belong to Claire and Roy who now own Foxglove and who we have become friends with. Marpessa was mentioned on their blog a few days ago.

The locks were lovely and easy, especially with boats descending the locks as we approached.

Passing Hadley.

Breath in at bridge 36.

From this point on the noise from Ryknild Street Roman Road A38 was very loud.

Gravel extraction in full flow. Lorries were queuing up to take on their loads.

Barton Marina.

Wychnor Lock with its crane and warehouse. After leaving the lock the noise from the road finally diminishes and peace is restored.

Before reaching Alrewas Lock we had to negotiate part of the River Trent and although the boards said the stretch was open, it did make for an interesting ride.

The large weir was in full flow and given a wide berth, as we sped our way to the lock which was left open for us by a boat just leaving the lock.

We moored up just past bridge 46, locked the boat up and headed off for a walk around the village.

The name of the village is derived from Alder Wash (Swamp) due to the Alder trees that used to grow in and around the flood plain besides which the village is situated. Alrewas is a stunning village.

Free range chicken and piggies.

Village Rainbow is just one of the shops in the village, there is also a Co-op, Chemist, Chippy.

Butchers.

Post Office and War Memorial.

George and Dragon offering two course for £5 at lunch time, that is a real bargain if you cannot be bothered to cook.

The Crown Inn is looking for a new owner.

Stunning country cottages, worthy of being on chocolate boxes.

Vintage Austin.

Alrewas Bailey Bridge. This bridge crosses the millstream, a diversion of the River Trent which rejoins the main river below Alrewas canal lock.

Sadly the bridge is closed at present and is being repaired.

All Saints Church.

Bowling Club.

Alrewas is a beautiful village and so very well kept. Parts of it Keith and I recalled from our visit in 2009, but it was lovely to reacquaint ourselves with the village and all it has to offer. If you get the chance to stop on either the 48 hour moorings or 14 days moorings then do so and then walk into the village. Alrewas is also well known for the National Arboretum. We visited it in 2009 and found it incredibley moving.