Early Start

Friday, 12th August.
Hatherton Junction to Wheaton Aston.
13.5 Miles, 2 Locks.

As we have arranged to have visitors whilst moored at Wheaton Aston on Saturday I thought an early start was called for to ensure that we found a space. The alarm was set and we left Hatherton Junction at 6.05 this morning.

After an hour or so we had to stop to move an unoccupied boat which had drifted across the Canal. At Autherley Junction we turned right onto the Shropshire Union Canal and into the shallow stop lock, once through the lock it was a steady plod to Wheaton Aston where we dropped into a mooring opposite Turners Garage.

The only time we have been on the Shroppie before was in 2008 but we only did about 3 miles to the first winding hole (turning area) so this was our first opportunity to cross the Stretton Aqueduct which carries the Canal over the A5, I have travelled under it many times as my Mothers side of the family are from Shrewsbury.

Approaching the Aqueduct

Looking west towards Shrewsbury.

After mooring up we went for a short walk to get a loaf and ended up in the Hartley Arms, as we intend to take our visitors there on Saturday we thought an advanced visit was required to check on the Beer choice and menu, both look ok, I had heard that it was expensive but the prices on the menu are just normal pub food level.