Let's Head to Birmingham, Cruising the Worcester and Birmingham Canal

It poured rain overnight in Tewkesbury but the next morning was bright and sunny as we dragged the boat on to the water point for a fill before turning into Tewkesbury Lock. We dropped down the lock and out into the channel, heading out to the River Severn where we turned into the current and off upstream to Worcester. It took us about three and half hours to get to Worcester, as this sign at Lock 1 of the Worcester and Birmingham Canal says, 16 miles.

An unassuming brick opening off the River Severn and not far from the centre of Worcester marks the start of the Worcester and Birmingham Canal. We moored up against the jetty and set the first lock, a double lock.

Two double locks lead up to the marina, from that point on the locks become narrow.

Our mooring in Worcester for the next few days.

This monument on top of the bridge just ahead of our mooring, commemorates the last battle of the civil war fought here in 1651. It's a series of shields, lances and helmets.

Just an interesting old pub we found as we roamed around Worcester, the ground floor external walls are completely covered with glossy ceramic tiles and old advertising.

A pic of the Worcester Cathedral, building began in 1084, it's a beautiful cathedral. Apparently, this site has had a place of worship here long before the cathedral was built. If you want to see more pictures and information about Worcester you can go here.

A tour of the National Trust managed Greyfriars. Besides being a beautiful old classified building, our tour guide tells us it was of no particular significance. This is a pic across the lovely rear gardens back to Greyfriars.

Worcester had a comprehensive shopping precinct that kept Rachael amused for a couple of days. We also made enquiries about the manufacture of Worcestershire Sauce at the Visitor's Centre. It seems that now they make the minimum amount in Worcester required to maintain the Royal Seal, the balance is made under licence.