Now on the Aire & Calder Navigation

Denise in a staircase lock

Started moving at 7:30 to get through the first lock when it opened at 8:15. This like several others on this leg of the journey was another staircase - preceded by three swing bridges.

At each staircase British Waterways have lock keepers who ensure that the locks are used correctly and that boats dont disappear between locks. There may have been problems in the past as the canal goes near some of the less desirable parts of Leeds, but the only people we saw were friendly fishermen, cyclists, joggers and dog-walkers.

The journey itself was interesting, passing by old and new buildings and the ruins of Kirkstall Abbey with much the route along the wooded southside of the Aire valley. As we have found travelling into other large cities by canal the surroundings look attractively rural until very close to the centre. The water was deep so we were able to give the newly serviced engine a work-out.

The Aire & Calder Navigation through Leeds

Entering Clarence Dock

After nearly dropping Denise in the water at the last lock where access was difficult because of building work, we crossed the boundary from the Leeds & Liverpool onto the Aire & Calder Navigation and moored at Clarence Dock in front of the Royal Armouries Museum at 13:45. The moorings are free, have electricity and water available next to the boat, and are 10 minutes walk from the city centre - perfect for an enjoyable weekend.