12th - 14th July. Skipton :)

On Tuesday we left Bingley and headed for the mooring at Kildwick we had used on the way up. It was only 8 miles but the 13 swing bridges on the way slowed us down a bit. We saw this magnificent bull contentedly relaxing in a field with his ladies.

A bit further on there was what appeared to be a bomb in the water. It turned out to be a hay bale, no doubt rolled down the hill by local kids.

Airedale appeared between the trees, a mixture of fields and crags and large villages with chimneys left over from an industrial past. 

We moored at Kildwick and went for an evening walk up the hill. We found the imposing Kildwick Hall with lovely knot garden and got this view of Harold moored neatly by the church in the valley.

The next day we continued on to Skipton, a mere five miles and five swing bridges away, and found a mooring just past the basin and near the alley to Morrisons (another visit there is required). Jo had a shower to wash away the long walks between swing bridges and headed into town for some civilisation. 

Skipton basin.

We spent a couple of days stocking up, cleaning and washing. Robin paddle-boarded around the basin, enjoying having his leg fully healed and water-tight again.

Robin sets off!

We now have some long days to get to, and through, Wigan by the 22nd when we have booked a few days berth at a marina for Harold so we can have a short break at home before venturing into Liverpool docks.