Boatdate: 14092019
Location: Rufford, Tarleton
Canal: Leeds Liverpool
Heading: NW
Weather: Warm, even hot, lovely autumn day.

The River Douglas meanders close by on the starboard side. Tomorrow we will be sailing on her tidal waters which is a somewhat daunting prospect. Today however we have time to pootle up the cut through Rufford canal lock No 7 and stop shortly after to visit Rufford Old Hall which, as it happens, has a heritage open day so is free to visit. Lucky us. It's a bit of a gem and I'm glad we stopped. Late in the afternoon we carry on to Tarleton and moor up after Town End swing bridge and do a spot of shopping. In the morning we will be joined by the 2nd Mate and some friends who are familiar with the Ribble Link crossing and who will stop us biting our nails too much. We have bought good crewsaver jackets for the trip across, just in case. No choice anyway: they won't let you go on the river without them.