The lock gates make a good platform for mothers flying lessons, if they wont try she pushes them off!
There are hundreds of modern boats to be seen passing through Foxton, up to 50 a day, but there is still something special about a traditional working boat which draws the crowds.
Early morning view of the bottom lock in 2003, its changed a bit since then, compare this with the latest pictures.
The cottage at the top lock has been restored and now houses a Coffee Stop, and an information room. The work was carried out using an EMDA grant, photographic evidence from FIPT, and project management from British Waterways. BW have won an award for the restoration.
The Locks were in decline in 1950 and the first ever Festival of Boats was held at nearby Market Harborough. Boats of all shapes and sizes used the locks to get to the Festival, this one was typical of the cruiser design of the time.
Today we use the term ‘Working Boat’ to describe traditional Narrowboats, but this one ascending the locks was earning its living, it had visited the 1950 Festival at Market Harborough, and it was now on its way to deliver its cargo.
Narrow boats go with narrow locks, and this working boat sows just how tight the fit is. Boats were built 7 foot wide (or just under) and a maximum of 72 feet long, the maximum size for the locks. Wide locks are usually big enough to accommodate a pair of boats side by side.
Paddle gear on the locks has changed, originally it was direct acting, you turned your ‘windlass’ (lock Handel) and lifted the elm paddle which was wet and heavy, and this was connected to the top by a heavy wooden rod. This made Foxton hard work. Today’s paddle gear has a 4 to 1 reduction gear hidden in the post, the connecting rod is metal, and the paddle is made of plastic so its much easier for the modern boater.
Looking down the locks, they have been refurbished for night use, so it is about 1909. the lift boiler house and chimney can be seen on the right.
The locks seen from ‘Rainbow’ bridge about 1900. You can see the lift in the background. The buildings have changed but a boatman from 1900 would recognise the place without difficulty, except that houses are now pubs, his stable is now a shop.
This is the most famous image of Foxton Locks. The loaded horse boat is descending the locks and has reached half way. Some people say that it is snowing but I think its just wet. The crew are probably ready to huddle into the cabin for a hot drink, but someone has to steer and someone must walk with the boat until nightfall, no rest for these boaters, no mater what the weather is.
The oldest known photograph of the top cottage, with the Cryer lock keeper family on the doorstep.
In the 1930’s a severe drought meant that the canals were running out of water. To save the Main London to Birmingham waterway Leicester section water is being pumped up the hill and run down Watford locks.
In the 1930’s a severe drought meant that the canals were running out of water. To save the Main London to Birmingham waterway Leicester section water is being pumped up the hill and run down Watford locks.
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