London to Bakewell

We left our hotel and caught tube to Heathrow where we were picking up the rental. Arriving at Heathrow we navigated through numerous escalators, lifts and travelators to finally catch shuttle to Avis site. It took about an hour and was a frustrating process made more testing by some very vocal and pushy Americans. Finally drove out of Heathrow(thank goodness for the GPS) heading for Oxford. My research had already told me that it was impossible to get a park in Oxford so we located one of serval Park and Ride services. What a great set up. Parked the car for 2 pounds and then boarded a bus for the centre of town (about 15 minutes). The drive in was itself beautiful but the town was spectacular. So much amazing architecture and a lovely atmosphere due to their being few cars! We bought Pret A Manger bread rolls and sat in a church yard eating them. We wandered around until 4 when we caught the bus back to the car. So pleased we made this stop. Only surprise was that there were very few students to be seen (maybe they just didn’t look like our students or else it was the holidays). The motorway from Oxford to turn off to Bakewell (2 half hours) was horrendous as Friday night traffic had built up. It was multi-lanes and seemed to be swells of even more traffic every time we were near exits to the big cities. Traffic was almost at a standstill in some places. Took all our patience and concentration. Finally (after only one wrong turn) turned off for Bakewell and drove for another 30 miles through winding narrow roads and numerous little villages. Arrived feeling exhausted and then had to find a park. The house was up on a steep hill and all the parking was permit only. We drove further up and finally did locate a spot. Then had to walk down to Cheryl’s cottage which was gorgeous but would definitely rate as a “small house”. She was out but had recommended a pub to eat at. We found The Manners easily and had a table in the snug. Had the best meal of our trip including some beautiful fresh vegetables cooked to perfection. We really were hungry and ordered the dessert which was one of the best I’ve ever had- a hot cookie cooked in a little pan served with salted caramel ice cream. Such a treat after a long day!Read more