Shaun and Dick took a morning walk along trails down to the River Chelmer, by the Maldon Golf Club, and back up to Spital Road. After morning tea and chat, Carol and I take a short walk down to her sister’s house to do some vacation duty – collecting mail and watering plants.
We drove to Little Baddow, Chelmsford and the ‘Paper Mill Lock’. The lock is part of a series of 12 locks along the Chelmer & Blackwater Navigation system. After a walk along a trail alongside the canal we stopped for coffee (cream soda for Richard) at the Paper Mill Lock Tearooms. They’ve been around for about 19 years and serve traditional tearoom and lite sandwich fare. What a lovely place for a snack and to observe the canal boats.
Next up is the small village of Goldhanger, home of the Chequers Inn on the river Blackwater. The place was built in the 14th century and retains many of its original features. The pub at the Inn had that traditional vibe – very cool. There was even a ‘bar billiard’ table in one of the rooms! The holes are on the playing surface rather than in pockets. Never saw one of those before.
Further down the coast is the Haybridge Basin and the set of locks which connect the Chelmer and Blackwater canal to the junctions of the rivers Chelmer and Blackwater. The lock mechanics are very fascinating.
Along the waterside path is a sailboat in dire need of work. The owner had quite a chat with us. He’s been working on what is the last remaining sailboat of its class. She was built in 1901. He’s devoted the last 40 years and a significant amount of money trying to complete what would be his 3rd restoration. It is in desperate need of immediate attention, and he isn’t sure he can afford to do it on his own. He’s been unable to get assistance from any maritime historical sites and is clearly worried that this last example of a long-ago boat model will wind up in a salvage yard. After that thoughtful conversation we four headed to the Old Ship Pub for reflection (and libation).
Carol outdid herself again with an awesome Hunter’s Chicken w/cheese and bacon for dinner. Dick made Jalapeno Poppers from garden peppers as an appetizer (with smoked Chorizo and and to mixed review). Another nice day in Essex!
