Banbury Lock.

Ancient and modern in a delightful mix.

Yesterday and today’s pictures could not be more different. Aynho Weir Lock, with its unusual shape in a totally rural setting, and Banbury Lock, conventional and right in the main shopping area.

Unlike Reading (see No Stopping in Reading on the River Kennet), Banbury have grasped the importance of their historic canal. The Oxford had reached here by 1778. However, the company had run out of money, and it was not until 1786 the extension to Oxford commenced, finally reaching its destination by 1790.

Banbury Lock was the last built conventionally. Financial issues caused the final section to be built on a tight budget. Hence all the wooden lift bridges it is now famous for. But also, the locks were built deeper (so there were less of them), and they only had single bottom gates. As you can see, this one has the more usual pair.

The modern shopping centre is Castle Quay, which fully embraces the canal. In the distance, you can just see another of the wooden lift bridges – still in use as part of the centre. The metal framework just visible behind that is the historic Tooley’s Boatyard, sadly not in keeping with its historic nature.

Photograph Details:

• Taken: 14 Oct 2017
• Camera: Olympus OM-D E-M10 MkIIA
• Lens: Olympus 14-42mm 1:3.5-5.6
• Focal Length 14mm
• F/5
• 1/30 Sec
• ISO 1000