Oxford to Banbury- stage 1

We had flowers thrown at us, as we passed by the genteel homes of the Oxford folk of Jericho. Thus started our journey. What a wonderful endorsement by our family that what we’re doing is a good thing.

birders will be able to tell us what type of birds sat on the tree as we left Oxford. Baby herons or cormorants?

And who knew that estate agents now sell narrowboats and display their signs along the towpath? Mind you, with Oxford house prices being what they are, for many a boat is the only thing they can afford. And what a lovely boat it is!

We don’t usually cook big meals on the boat which require a lot of gas, but since it was Sunday, and this was the start of our journey, we treated ourselves to roast chicken, roast potatoes, carrots and greens. We spent the night in splendid isolation just before Pigeon lock- a lovely sunset, birdsong and not much else.