Day 4 Tuesday

Froghall

Here we are still at Consall Forge ready to make an early start for Froghall, but not until we had gone back slightly to top up the water tank.

Moving back to the water point alongside the former lime kilns
topping up the tank and ready for Froghall Tunnel

Moving along and taking in the fine scenery of the Churnet Valley we soon found ourselves gliding past boats moored before the tunnel and there were one or two knowing glances that seemed to say "look at those idiots heading for a tunnel they can't get through" get through it we did and with plenty of clear space between us and the roof.

Entering the tunnel dead slow. Quite an experience and
a first for our band of musketeers

It was something of an anti climax really for we had wondered all along if we would make it although Karen's assurance that the boat would get through easily enough as long as the water tank was full rang true and so after clearing the tunnel we entered the restored lock, that heralds the start of the Uttoxeter branch of the canal, dropping down onto the superb moorings created by those responsible for this restoration project

Words alone cannot describe this scene. You have to visit
this place to appreciate what has been done

A fitting tribute without a doubt

The basin at Froghall is splendid, isolated and a great place to spend a day. The former lime kilns add to the interest and there are numerous walks that take the explorer around this splendid area. It's probably a walkers paradise and why not. There is a visitor centre here but it was closed on our arrival so not sure what that would have to offer. Ample car parking make this remote place easily accessible for those looking for peace and quiet

The restored top lock of the Uttoxeter Canal
Even James Brindley would have been impressed

Froghall was also at one time a mooring for a horse drawn trip boat now sadly departed we know not what the story is but will attempt to seek further information out of general interest

This is the end of the Caldon Canal at Froghall
This building is now a private property

After a spot of late breakfast/early lunch we left this splendid mooring and ascended the lock before entering the tunnel and finally leaving this remarkable place in our wake as we once again headed for the Black Lion at Froghall

Lining up ready for the lock as we head back to the 'Black Lion'

Nice to moor near enough outside the pub and wander in for a lunchtime pint. Sitting in the beer garden we could appreciate the wonderful views whilst listening to the water running over the river weir. Chickens wandered about completely untroubled by our presence and it seemed the world of nature was at peace with mankind

Our three bank robbers enjoying a pint in the beer garden
This photo will probably be featured on Crimewatch one day.
It was taken by a rather attractive young lady who after seeing Malc
taking a pic of Dave and Trev offered to take one of the three of us

The young lady in question and her fella. We had seen this couple walking along the canal as we left Froghall and now suddenly here they were at the Black Lion having clearly arrived before us. It's a long walk.
Nice couple. We told them we would put their pic on the 'Blog'.
"Thank you for taking our photo earlier"

We booked a meal, for later, in the pub and set about to explore a little of the area. That's when the rain started, fortunately it didn't last too long and once again in a place where there is so little there is much to do and much of interest

Into the pub and another first class meal. The portions were on the large side but we managed although Trev didn't do the mixed grill the full justice it deserved. Have to admit me and Dave were a bit shocked when we saw the size of that particular meal. It would be a challenge for anyone and Trev vowed to return again one day and eat the lot

Dave and Trev planning on a course of action while Malc took off
for a walk along the canal with camera in hand. It seems Dave was
going to tidy the boat whilst Trev did a bit of fishing

What did we say about Dave tidying the boat?

Finally it was time to return to the boat for the night but not before reflecting the magnificence of Froghall and then, once again, on what we all three considered one of the best pubs ever