Conisbrough, Doncaster and the New Junction Canal

Wednesday 14th June
We spent today moored at Sprotborough and decided to walk up to Conisbrough to see the castle.
The walk was an easy stroll through woodland along side the river for the most part with a gentle climb up to Consibrough at the end. Half way along the walk we came across the great Don valley viaduct long since disused as a railway but now a footpath and cycle way, with stunning views across the valley.

The viaduct from the river

The river from the viaduct

 There is a great visitor centre at the castle with a small cafe, the castle itself is very imposing, the keep, sat on top of its motte overlooking the surrounding countryside. We were lucky as the visibility was really good with views across to the Pennines to the west, and Doncaster Minster to the east. To the south the view looks over the town of Conisbrough with all the greenery denying its industrial past.

Thursday 15th June
After calling Vicky to wish her happy birthday we prepared to leave for Doncaster, just as we were readying ourselves for departure the Exol Pride passed through, travelling upstream to Rotherham, it is always satisfying to see these Leviathans still using this amazing infrastructure.

Boaters are warned about tying up securely when these boats are around and we saw just what can happen as the boat behind us had all but its forward mooring pins pulled out as the tanker passed.

We set off for Doncaster which is only a couple of miles downstream, once through Sprotborough lock.
We arrived at the visitor moorings in Doncaster, here you can moor for up to 72 hrs and (although not listed in the guidebook) there are all facilities except pump out.
The moorings are secure and are very close to the town centre just by the minster, so we had a walk round to explore.
We also found a Launderette here so managed to get all the washing done too.






Friday 16th June
Following our overnight stop we had a quick walk round the market, a bit disappointing because half of it was closed, so once back at the boat we decided to move on up the New Junction canal and moored at the top close to its connection with the Aire and Calder.
As I write this we are deciding where to stop on Saturday night, maybe Beal or West Haddersley on the river Aire; it is such a gorgeous day it is tempting to stay put!