Oxford To Banbury
LEAVING OXFORD
Leaving behind the hustle and bustle of Oxford, your journey now takes you northward towards Thrupp, immersing you in the enchanting world of North Oxford. As you glide along, catch glimpses into the lives and gardens of locals, offering a unique perspective on canal-side living. Be mindful as you pass through the bustling canal community in Oxford, showing respect for the moored boats that serve as people's homes.
Upon reaching Wolvercote, your first lock awaits, signaling the start of action for your crew. Just before the lock lies The Plough Inn, a perfect overnight stop on your return journey, conveniently close to our boatyard. Alternatively, consider the Anchor at bridge 240 or mooring opposite our boatyard, a mere 15-minute stroll from the city center. Many opt to return to Oxford a day early to delve deeper into the renowned university city.
Following the operation of Wolvercote lock, it's wise to have at least one crew member disembark as you approach the first lift bridge, followed by another shortly after, and then Dukes Lock. Once past these obstacles, regroup on board and continue your journey.
After two more locks and approximately two hours of cruising past Kidlington and Yarnton, you'll encounter another canal community at Langford Lane. Show courtesy and reduce speed as you pass, respecting the residents' homes. Around the bend, the picturesque village of Thrupp will soon come into view, marking the next chapter of your canal adventure.
THRUPP
Thrupp welcomes you with its charming canal-side setting and two delightful eateries, The Jolly Boatman and The Boat, conveniently located near visitor moorings. Take care as you pass by the numerous private boats moored along the canal. Thrupp is a bustling hub for both walkers and boaters, with easy access to catch a bus on the main road for a visit to nearby Blenheim Palace in Woodstock. Fun fact: scenes from the beloved Inspector Morse series were filmed right here in Thrupp, including at the house just outside our boatyard gates in Oxford!
As you glide beneath yet another lift bridge and along the scenic Thrupp Wide, you'll enter the serene Cherwell Valley. The canal's contour design becomes evident as you spot the Shipston-on-Cherwell church perched on the bank to your left. The canal gracefully curves around the churchyard while the River Cherwell flows alongside, offering picturesque views of meadows to your right.
Approaching Shipston Weir lock, with its distinctive diamond shape, the canal merges briefly with the River Cherwell for about a mile. Keep to the right to avoid collisions, especially around bends where visibility may be limited. Take advantage of another excellent opportunity for a dog walk up to Bakers lock, where the river diverges from the canal under a charming iron bridge, only to rejoin later and run parallel to Banbury.
Continuing onward through Bakers Lock, you'll pass the bustling marina at Enslow. Exercise caution as you navigate past these boats, as they are treasured possessions of their owners. Keep an eye out for boats undergoing maintenance out of the water. Beyond the marina lies the winding hole – just remember, it's not at the marina itself!
