One of the marvels of the canal system; locks raise (or lower) the level of the canal so that boats can move great distances in spite of the topography.
In the canal heyday, 18th/19th century, locks would be attended by a lock-keeper, who was provided with a cottage (probably to make sure he was on duty 24/7). Many are now derelict, but this one, in Cropredy, Oxfordshire, looks nice.
@bardejov Bardejov, I'm not that sure of the terminology myself. These are hire boats; you get an induction (and lock demonstration if you want one) at the Boatyard, then you are left holding the tiller and are free to roam the canals as you wish. The only thing is, you have to plan your route a bit to make sure you are back at the Boatyard on time on the allocated return day. The narrowest parts are the locks, there is only a couple of inches leeway each side of the boat. The maximum length of the boats is 70ft, most hire boats are between 50ft and 65ft. On the canals themselves, the width usually allows two boats to pass with quite a lot of space. That's a long answer - sorry!
I saw this and thought - that's Cropredy. Very close to where I live, and such a great place to photograph. Just trying to think if I have posted any from there on here - will have a look.
@elsbels Thank you, Helen.
@fannyb Thanks, Fanny.
@lyno Wow, thanks, Lyn.
@positivemoments Thank you, Tracy!
@henrir Thank you, Henri.
@allisonrap Thank you, Allison.
@georgews George - yes, there's lots to observe.