Lazy dayz!

A thoroughly enjoyable day and for once the weather didn't bother us one little bit. Somehow I feel rather smug in fact at having enjoyed the day so much without the constant heavy showers causing any stress: Edwards 1, British summer 0!

A very lazy start to the day and a lovely fried breakfast to set us up. We then toddled under the bridge and up the lane to Dunham Massey Hall, an imposing National Trust stately hall, parkland and gardens.

Thanks to all the local boaters and people who emailed to say that this was worth a visit. We had a fantastic time. Walked round the deer park before it rained and then went into the house as it rained! My father had left his National Trust memebership card at home but credit to the NT, one phone call to their offices confirmed that he was amember and tickets were duely and freely issued.

A fascinating look round the house and gardens together with the water mill and a very tasty scone and tea in the restaurant, more time wasted in the shop and then a stroll back to the boat. We have noticed that boats on the Bridgewater don't seem to slow down for moored craft and our front stake was almost out. Apart from that, all was safe and sound as we left it and Simba had obviously fulfilled his duty as guard dog by barking at everyone he heard walk past! Right now, the engine is topping up the batteries for the evening whilst the rain continues to lash; my father, (who was whipping a rope!) has come scuttling back in to read Canals and Rivers while I finish the blog before embarking on the dinner process. Tomorrow - up and off through Manchester to Picadilly Basin in readiness to be locked onto the Rochdale at 8.30 on Thursday morning.