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UK July 2025
  • Yve Stokes
  • Yve Stokes

UK July 2025

Our grand tour of the Motherland with Trev and Jen. A year of planning and saving and the day has arrived for us to depart!! Read more
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  • Trip start
    July 4, 2025
    Yve StokesUK July 2025Traveler
    1

    Arrival in London

    July 5, 2025 in England ☁️ 21 °C

    We started our journey Friday 4th July with bags packed and whisked expertly to the international airport by Lisa. We left Brisbane time to Singapore around 3pm, arriving at 10pm, onwards to Heathrow arriving London time 6am Saturday morning.
    We waited patiently for my luggage but after realising that my air tag hadn’t arrived, made enquires at the desk to be told it was on the next flight. We arranged to have it couriered to our accommodation and took off to find Trev and Jen.
    After navigating the underground and a joyful reunion we made our way to Paddington station not fully able to believe we had actually made it!
    Trev led us to our accommodation where we left our luggage and headed off to find coffee.
    We had 2 ticketed destinations to attend Westminster Abbey @ 12pm and UK Parliament House after.
    Train from Bayswater station through to Westminster station was wonderful complete with old brick tunnels but modern electric trains!
    We wandered around the St James’s Park taking in the sights, our first glimpse of Buckingham Palace, incredible trees, ducks and squirrels (oh my they’re cute). All the quintessential London features that are so familiar in theory but absolutely delightful in reality. The buildings, statues, red double decker buses, red phone boxes, hanging flower baskets on delightful lampposts, monuments, Big Ben, the Thames and so much more… Our eyes were wide with wonder albeit with added bags due to lack of sleep 😂
    Westminster Abbey was incredible. The stain glass windows are huge. Such a beautiful, detailed building filled with history, tradition and a system of religious rituals spanning centuries. We wandered in hushed awe viewing tombs and monuments dedicated to many historic and colourful characters, musicians, poets, kings, queens and conquerors. So impressive.
    I couldn’t help but think of our Lord and King who lived his life in simplicity, free of pomp or ceremony, obedient in life and death but is alive and ready for the command to take up his rightful position as King of the World! 🙏
    Next stop was scones, jam and clotted cream because how can you not when in London?!!
    We then walked to the UK parliament buildings and did a self guided tour of the House of Lords, Commons ect. An excellent audio took us through the halls, traditions, voting rooms and so on.
    So wonderful to see it all in person. We navigated our way home and enjoyed checking into our apartment and a long hot shower. We had walked 13km and stood on our feet all day. Speaking of feet. Can’t believe I had no other shoes accept plastic slides and Danny’s cute Vinnie face socks to wear due to the missing luggage 🤣 Thankfully I didn’t bump into King Charles today 🤭
    After a traditional London pub dinner at the Kings Head we fell into bed exhausted but grateful for safe travels and memories in the making.    Read more

  • Yve StokesUK July 2025Traveler
    112

    Hyde Park, Buckingham Palace & surround

    July 6, 2025 in England ☁️ 18 °C

    Today I popped on my best Myer pearl earrings, and my sensible sandals! Off to visit the Palace along with the rest of London! We decided to walk there because of the epic locations along the way that we didn’t want to miss. Hyde Park, Rose gardens, Wellington Arch, Diana’s memorial, the green park and finally Buckingham Palace. What a walk!! So much to take in. Rows of massive established trees, squirrels, ducks, ponds, imposing monuments and the local people who are enjoying the mostly sunny and pleasant weather. We headed to the palace gates and were speechless with the size and grandeur of B.P.
    Our visit coincided with the changing of the guard ceremony. Red tunics and bearskin hats aplenty!
    They were disciplined and regimented, and seemed to take everything quite seriously. Lots of foot stamping, gun grabbing and commands being shouted. Impressive!!
    The band was pure joy. I had goosebumps while God save the king was playing. We left around 12pm after many kilometres of walking and 1 hour standing but our heads buzzing!
    Part 2 of the day is coming 😄    Read more

  • Yve StokesUK July 2025Traveler
    221

    Buck Palace to British Museum

    July 6, 2025 in England 🌧 21 °C

    After seeing the amazing Buckingham Palace and changing of the guard we walked through the famous St James’s Park and into Mayfair and Soho district. We grabbed a tasty hamburger at a very cosy albeit maybe questionable pub 😂 grabbed a takeaway coffee (hard to find a decent coffee in London) and kept walking till we came to the British Museum. We got into the queue that went down the street and around the corner but got through surprisingly fast. The front pillars are gigantic!! We had a rough plan of where we wanted to go. It’s hard to believe what you’re seeing as we wandered through the different Empires dating back through the history of the Bible. Egyptian, Assyrian, Roman, Middle Eastern artifacs.
    So incredibly faith affirming and inspiring. I found a Roman platter that weighed 6kg. Imagine having to carry that around - glad they eventually invented melamine 🤣 It was extremely hot inside and so so busy. We were wilting and decided to head home after walking 17km and standing for over 8 hours!
    We enjoyed the tiny roof garden deck at our apartment with a glass of wine and some crisps as they say here 👍 Dinner at a tiny Lebanese restaurant. The Baba Ganoush with pomegranate seeds was the best I’ve tasted. A big call! Still light here at 9pm! Love that 👏
    We read of Samuel anointing David…“Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart. What a blessing we have a wise Father who isn’t impressed by the fancy uniform or imposing monuments. 🙏
    ‭    Read more

  • Yve StokesUK July 2025Traveler
    1

    Tower of London/Bridge. Crown Jewels

    July 7, 2025 in England 🌙 15 °C

    We had a fabulous day visiting the Tower of London. Walking over the London bridge and the Tower Bridge. So cool to go to a real castle. Learn about the history and marvel at the gates, rooms, arches, turrets, staircases, bells, clocks, ravens, armour, swords, secrets, beheadings, politics, kings and queens of a Tower that spans nearly 1000 years.
    Thought that no matter the amount of power bestowed on any human, it still ended with death - beheading being the preferred method, exile, torture or incarceration. Great !!
    So thankful that we have the privilege to be known and loved by the Eternal and righteous King. 🙏
    We saw the indescribably beautiful Crown Jewels 💎 they were spellbinding. I have never seen anything like it before. Spectacular. What a place!
    Can only imagine how magnificent the Temple will be in the age to come! I can’t wait. ❤️
    The Tower bridge was exceptionally beautiful. and such an honour to walk over its magnificence.
    We had some delicious quiche for lunch then sat and watched a bit of the Aussie play tennis. Surreal to think Wimbledon was just down the road!
    Thought of you Janey 🤩
    We trained it home then put on our best frock and headed out to see Phantom of the Opera at His Majesty’s Theatre. 🎭 A mezmarising performance with costumes that had so much attention to detail, colour and vibrancy. Fabulous singing.
    Jen announced we had completed our 20,000 steps as we were nearly home. Every step was magical today.    Read more

  • Yve StokesUK July 2025Traveler
    3

    Borough/Leadenhall Markets, Sky Garden

    July 8, 2025 in England ☀️ 23 °C

    The lads took off to Churchill War Rooms which they enjoyed immensely. They were really excited about the historic perspective of the Second World War and Britain’s involvement in bringing down Germany.
    Meanwhile Jen and I bravely navigated the underground train to the Borough Market.
    It’s the oldest Market in London. A 1000+ history.
    It was something I’ve been looking forward to so much!! I tried the crème brûlée doughnut and we shared a seafood paella with 1/2 lobster. Both famous and popular amongst all who visit and will live a long time in my memory as an Ambrosial* moment.
    (*Implies a very pleasant taste and smell, reminiscent of the food of the gods) 😂
    I was in my element checking out the food stalls, it was a vision for the eyes. We then meandered across the London Bridge to the Leadenhall Markets and explored there. The structure was impressive with gorgeous colour and detail but it was mostly converted into cafe/pub style shops. This also dated back to Roman times. The history is mind blowing in London.
    We met the lads had an hour or so to wait so found a fantastic underground bar and grabbed a drink. It was very atmospheric like many places in London. Full of charm, imperfection and quirky details. Love!!
    Oh I found a Bluey book in London! Had to take a photo of the book about a family of dogs from Brisbane 😍👏
    We then waited in a long queue for the Sky Garden. The view was awesome! It was really hot up there so we enjoyed, took lots of photos then left. We made our way home on the underground with the afternoon commuters, grabbing a few supplies at Sainsbury’s and made dinner in the form of a cheese and vegetable plate, enjoyed on ‘our’ balcony. Well we share it with the local pigeons!
    It’s roughly 7.30pm here and we’ve walked another 12km and been on our feet for over 8 hours so it’s rest time. A bit hard to sleep when it’s still daylight outside for another 2 hours!
    A beautiful verse I enjoyed in the morning readings…
    For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth, and the former things shall not be remembered or come into mind.”
    ‭‭    Read more

  • Yve StokesUK July 2025Traveler
    414

    Kensington Palace, Harrods, Bike Riding

    July 9, 2025 in England ⛅ 27 °C

    This morning we set off refreshed after all of us slept very well. We walked up to Kensington Gardens via the suburb of Campden which was filled with dozens of delightful white ornate homes. Most with a fancy car parked out the front eg a McLaren/ Lamborghini ect…
    We explored the local village, grabbed a coffee at a cafe filled with dog treats which was delicious surprisingly 😅
    Then moved on to the back entrance of Kensington Palace to line up for our 10am tour.
    We enjoyed this tour immensely. It was so informative and easy to follow. What a treat to walk through the halls of history, pose on staircases climbed by kings and queens, see cradles that had held royal babies and see clothes and tiaras they had worn. There was a beautiful monument gardens in honour of Lady Di as she lived at KP for many years that was designed by William and Harry. We then strolled through the KP gardens where Kings had shot deer on their hunting parties and many a duel was held in the early mist. (Actually 😲)
    Heading after that to a small store for a chicken shawarma wrap that was very tasty indeed.
    After being fueled we headed to Harrods. It’s customary right?! What a cool place to walk around. We really enjoyed that experience.
    We then grabbed a couple of lime bikes and rode back.
    After an hour’s rest we had dinner then grabbed a couple more lime electric bikes and headed back into Hyde park, Kensington Gardens and did a quick spin around Buckingham Palace as you do!
    🇬🇧👑🤴
    We came back around 10pm and it was only just going dark!
    Time to put the final load of washing on pack our bags and head to Scotland! Edinburgh here we come.
    London you have been spectacular. For such a heavily populated city with all the normal difficulties, homelessness, rubbish, ageing buildings- we have felt safe, welcome and at home.

    “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
    Fave verse from our morning reading 🙏❤️    Read more

  • Yve StokesUK July 2025Traveler
    1

    London to Edinburgh

    July 10, 2025 in England ⛅ 21 °C

    We woke early, packed our bags and jumped into the lift to head down the 2 levels and one of my greatest fears came to pass. The lift doors closed and the lift wouldn’t move! 😱
    We rang the alarm and rang Trev who was down already after trying everything inside.
    Danny decided to finally take matters into his own hands and reefed the door open. Thankfully it came open and we used the stairs. Ahaaah I don’t recommend!!
    We got to the train station early enough to grab a coffee and pastry from a local market stall, boarded the train and set off for our 4 hour train ride to Edinburgh. We had 4 seats with a table in between us and plenty of luggage storage. What a treat to sit down for 4 hours and travel up into Scotland. Lots of things to see along the way and time to chill and eat snacks 🤣
    A couple of famous lines from the lady who was advertising her dining cart, “we have all sorts of snackies (and after reading out an extensive list) ended with, either way, I’ll be seein’ you!”
    Classic one liners 😂
    The ‘Heather’ was growing everywhere which was so pretty and of course we took a moment to remember Jen’s Mum, Aunt Heath.
    We made it to Edinburgh city and a local designated city guide came up to us and explained exactly where to go to our accommodation which we were grateful for as google maps is always time consuming. We wheeled our bags through the streets heard some fantastic bagpipes being played along the way and were delighted by the sight of the gorgeous buildings and quaint shop fronts. The landscape is much more undulating so you can look up and see castles and spires in the distance.
    Up a couple of flights of stairs - an old fashioned spiral staircase is challenging but fun! Our little apartment is delightful and we have wonderful views of the Main Street and Edinburgh castle in the distance.
    We headed to the local for supplies because there’s a well appointed kitchen here and we love a bit of homemade food and were craving some veggies. We chilled out after a walk around, as we needed a rest afternoon and enjoyed a few episodes of Victoria - an apt bit of watching as we immerse ourselves in castles, historic cities and royalty 🤴 Sleep now as the exploring starts tomorrow and boy oh boy, this place is HILLY!! 😅    Read more

  • Yve StokesUK July 2025Traveler
    12121

    Edinburgh castle, Whiskey, ice cream 💗

    July 11, 2025 in Scotland 🌙 20 °C

    Today we grabbed a red hop off hop on bus that took us up to the Incredible Edinburgh Castle.
    The weather was absolute perfection. Slight breeze, 17-25 degrees so the castle was shining and the view spectacular. I can’t even begin to think about how cold and miserable it would have been in the dead of winter with those solid stone walls and dark corridors. It was incredible to reinforce the historic facts described in characters we’ve learned about (and have read about in my ladybird books 😂) Napoleon, Mary Queen of Scots ect!
    What a contrast in conditions with the royalty living lavishly and the prisoners in squalor. So interesting.
    Guns, turrets, churches, dungeons, arrows, big bolts on doors, iron gates, escape holes, grand halls, magical crowns, swords and sceptres, soldiers barracks, graveyards, all make for an exciting day!
    We then walked down, down many steps to our accommodation and made ourselves a delicious lunch. I definitely recommend staying in Grassmarket. It’s so close to everything and no need to eat out in between appointments 😉
    Next we had booked a whiskey tour a must do while in Scotland! It was absolutely brilliant! Note the name of the whiskey in the picture 😃 we went into a vault room with over 400 different types all made here in Scotland 😲
    After that we walked down the Royal mile back into Grassmarket to try a famous Mary’s Milk Bar ice cream. I had milk/passion fruit and pistachio flavour. Pistachio ice cream was the creamiest I have ever eaten. Really delicious. We bought chicken Kiev and made salad for dinner which we enjoyed immensely. Our feet were sore today so we grabbed an ice pack and some water and a thick shopping bag and gave our feet some TLC. It worked a treat. The lads had a turn too. We enjoyed the evening in and went to bed in the daylight around 9.45!!

    “He who has ears, let him hear.
    ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭13‬:‭9‬ ‭    Read more

  • Yve StokesUK July 2025Traveler
    11

    Britannia, Holyroodhouse, Dean village

    July 12, 2025 in Scotland ☀️ 22 °C

    Today I got up early and explored the streets of Edinburgh for some Harry Potter inspired photos before the crowds arrived.
    We are staying in a wonderful location on a street called West Bow that continues into Victoria street.
    This is where JK Rowling is said to have received her inspiration for Diagon Alley. I can totally understand why! It was a magical time to take photos.
    After that we packed our things, headed for coffee and grabbed the double decker bus. A sobering photo of the circle where many were publicly beheaded for their faith is here at Grassmarket just across from where we are staying 😥
    A shoutout to the bus service here it’s very efficient!
    They have free earphones and a constant commentary as you’re cruising along.
    We arrived to our stop near the water and did the tour of the Royal Yacht Britannia. It was incredibly well preserved in every way. It was tastefully decorated but not excessive. I can imagine the efficiency needed with every voyage. 44 times around the world and over 1 million miles! It was so interesting to see the queens bedroom and working office on board, the engine room and staff quarters, state room for banquets, rooms for dinnerware and glassware and so much more.
    We then got back on the bus to The Palace of Holyroodhouse. This is a working castle that housed Mary queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie. It has a large, well appointed 4 hectare garden that is used for special events today. They have 6 full time gardeners who also manage to take cuttings and germinate their own flowers.
    So grand! Full of stories and intriguing details from times gone by. I loved the commentary especially hearing from the current royals and their thoughts and memories on the Palace.
    The boys took off to a museum while Jen and I went to Dean village. It was such a stunning part of the city, green everywhere with a rippling brook winding its way under the giant arches of the bridge. Found some beautiful Roses and thought of my gardening friends Jenny and Glenys 🌸We navigated our way back successfully after lots of turning the map upside down 🤣 and the boys cooked some hamburgers for dinner. They were delicious. 👏
    A final wander around, gelato and view of the magnificent castle before we say farewell to beautiful Edinburgh.
    A full day, 14,000 steps and very difficult to manage only the 20 allotted photos!    Read more

  • Yve StokesUK July 2025Traveler
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    232

    Edinburgh to Ardersier

    July 13, 2025 in Scotland ☁️ 19 °C

    Today started with packing up our bags as we were of to our next adventure. The lads went and sorted our hire car while Jen and I went and found coffee and ended up with cake too 🤷🏻‍♀️🤭 Excellent!
    We then met the boys for a second breakfast. 🥳
    Off we went through the streets of Edinburgh with Danny driving and Trev navigating because the Bluetooth refused to work on the car. They did a great job.
    First stop was to learn about Robert the Bruce and the Battle of Bannockburn. Then we headed to the town of Stirling and climbed the massive hill up to Stirling Castle. Mary queen of Scots lived here as a child and it went through many battles and was torn down and rebuilt many times over. It was used for a barracks throughout history as it’s in an incredibly invincible position. The gardens were spectacular and the display in the gallery kitchen was really interesting.
    The large rooms on the left were used to school royal children. It is said that King James who translated the Bible was schooled here!
    We then dropped into Aldi for some lunch and supplies for on the road and took off up to Inverness. What a journey!! Absolutely spectacular scenery along the way. Mountains, grand old homes, ruins, heather in bloom, cows and sheep, beautiful golden hay bails on rolling green hills. We had perfectly blue skies, a slight breeze and lots of sunshine. The locals are complaining about a heatwave 😂
    We then went to the site of the battle of Colloden.
    The interactive display was excellent with real guns to hold and a battlefield with moving red or blue dots depicting soldiers.
    We then kept driving to our village accommodation in Ardersier. Had a wonderful roast dinner at the local with the locals! Sitting there hearing them chatter away in the Scottish accent is fun 😆👏 Went for a walk along the beach afterwards and was enthralled by the large stones that they have instead of sand. They were so beautiful and so many! We had our meeting and read from Matt 14 and reflected on the great compassion of our Lord, healing all those who came to him and doing so while grieving the loss of his cousin John. Such an extraordinary example.
    Sunset was spectacular with the clouds rolling over the mountains and the golden sun peaking through on its way down.    Read more

  • Yve StokesUK July 2025Traveler
    2
    2111

    Ardersier, Loch Ness to Fort William

    July 14, 2025 in Scotland ☁️ 15 °C

    Today we had a 9am appointment on Loch Ness so were up and going early. We made our way down to the water’s edge, boarded our boat and took off on our cruise to Urquhart Castle ruins. The water was calm and the skies were dotted with large clouds but that made it all the more striking when the sun poked through. What a surreal experience and we found ourselves looking for a snake like creature on the water which didn’t appear but there were some gorgeous ducks 🦆 when we disembarked 😂After that we drove to Fort Augustus where we saw the incredible Locks on the Caledonian Canal opening for the boats to enter and exit from the Loch Ness. What a pretty town full of charm, quirky details, roadside bookstalls, quaint gardens, tall pine trees and gorgeous gift shops.
    We then headed down to Fort William checked into our accommodation, ate lunch (packed sandwiches) and headed off for more touring. We went to Glenfinnan Viaduct which is the longest bridge in Scotland. Built in the 1890s.
    It was also featured in the Harry Potter films as the route to Hogwarts! We absolutely stumbled on the train coming around by chance as it only crosses 2x a day. Very fortunate! It was absolutely magical. I felt like we had gone back in time 🥰
    We then climbed a local tower monument to Bonnie Prince Charlie and enjoyed some incredible views.
    After that I was determined to find a highland cow or coo as the locals call them! A local directed us out of town a bit and to my delight we found some! I love them! 🐮 There were babies too ❤️❤️
    We explored this area - Glen Nevis, and found a beautiful waterfall which was flowing so fast with such crystal clear water. This was at the foot of the highest peak mountain called Ben Nevis.
    So stunning.
    We went to Marks and Spencer on the way home. Danny cooked some hamburger patties which we enjoyed with salad and a cheese platter. Another beautiful day being mind blown by the creative hand of our God.
    “Mountains and all hills, fruit trees and all cedars! Beasts and all livestock, creeping things and flying birds! Let them praise the name of the Lord, for his name alone is exalted; his majesty is above earth and heaven.”
    ‭    Read more

  • Yve StokesUK July 2025Traveler
    21

    Fort William to Bowness , Windermere

    July 15, 2025 in England 🌧 15 °C

    Today we left around 8am with quite a lot of travel ahead of us. We had absolutely no idea what the day would bring but left with a destination in our GPS!
    We travelled for a couple of hours relishing in the last of the Scottish Highlands before we left the area. We went through the Glencoe valley and were absolutely astounded at the beauty. We had never been in such magnificent 360 degree views, ginormous mountains, deep ravines, green grass, vibrant wildflowers, lushness, perfect blue clouds and fluffy white clouds. We were in viewing bliss!
    We jumped out of the car and ran around doing sound of music poses and taking it all in as much as possible.
    We could understand why so many movies have used Scotland for their backdrop. There’s nothing to change!!
    We drove a bit further down the road to another location called the 3 sisters. We no sooner stepped out of the car and a Hilander with a set of bagpipes started playing the Skye boat song. The sound echoed around the mountains. It was an incredible moment we will never forget.
    We took as many photos as we could and jumped back into the car and kept driving. We all said we have never seen such beauty. It was majestic.
    We had a coffee stop at Loch Lomond said our farewells to Scotland for now and wound our way through the countryside for quite a few hours.
    Very thankful that we had a travel day when the most amount of rain was forecast for the lakes district where we were heading.
    We passed Glasgow and Gretna Green very familiar to those who are Georgette Heyer fans 😉and hit the rolling hills of Beatrix Potter county. They were experiencing heavy rain so the creeks turned into rapids!
    So excited to see the change from rugged mountains to cottages, narrow hedged roads, rock walls, cottages with adorable gardens, hanging baskets overflowing, tiny churches with large steeples, houses with French widow boxes painted white and gorgeous peaked rooftops filled with chimneys.
    We checked into our bedrooms and went for a walk with our umbrellas, through this picturesque village. Jen and I keen to shop tomorrow whilst setting the boys up elsewhere 🤔😆
    Went to the local lake and grabbed a couple of brochures, stopped at the local Tesco and made dinner of a delicious platter and a bottle of white wine made all the sweeter by the company ❤️
    So lovely and grateful for a safe journey and the Lads who between them navigated the tricky route to bring us here safely. 💙
    It’s quiet and peaceful so we’re catching an early night so we can explore tomorrow when the rain has gone.
    “He covers the heavens with clouds; he prepares rain for the earth; he makes grass grow on the hills.”
    ‭‭    Read more

  • Yve StokesUK July 2025Traveler
    211

    Lake Windermere, Ambleside & surround

    July 16, 2025 in England ☁️ 18 °C

    We woke up and headed down town for some brekky and coffee. Got our backpacks ready and headed for the boat to Ambleside via Lake Windermere (Englands largest natural lake), so grateful for a bright sunny day.
    We couldn’t believe the beauty of the rolling hills, and lushness all around us while the water glistened in the sunshine. We tracked down a few Roman ruins and took a scenic walk around the town. We came across a bakery and decided we must try a Cornish pasty so we went halves! It was worth it. Really Yum!😋
    We walked and walked, took photos and it didn’t seem like we were gone for long but a few hours passed by very quickly! The flowers and gardens Ahhhhhhhh soo beautiful!! Rock walls with flowers and tiny ferns growing out, moss covered rocks, daisies, lavender, poppies, hydrangeas, fuchsias, and roses in abundance, window boxes, hedges, trees in all shapes and sizes including my favourite- topiary. All with the backdrop of rolling green hills and a lake with delightful geese 🪿 and white sailboats 😍
    We then caught the boat home and grabbed the car and went exploring all the Nashhhional Trussssst things on our list. Some were funny and we ended up in some random locations but we made the most of it by admiring every inch!
    We then went to an old fashioned English Pub for a GnT. Strawberry for me, before our 4pm appointment at Hill Top Farm - Home of Beatrix Potter! What a treat this was. We could actually see where she got the inspiration from for her iconic books. Craggy Apple trees, lettuces in rows, a ruburb patch, white picket gates, rock walls, an old farmhouse, watering cans and large terracotta pots. We all loved it so much. I remember my Nanna Dodson reading the books to me and my Nanna Hull used to sing the songs to us. To tour her house was amazing. So much memorabilia and things were left exactly as they were when she donated everything to the national trust. I loved that she had a bookmarked bible next to her bed and that featured in her books too. We then came back after a glorious day and ate a delicious Thai dinner. We all said we have never seen so much green in one day 🌸🌸
    I will be making a separate flower post because I can’t leave them out!!
    16,401 steps later - night 😘    Read more

  • Yve StokesUK July 2025Traveler
    122

    Lakes district to Yorkshire Dales

    July 17, 2025 in England ☁️ 18 °C

    Today we were up early and on the road, winding our way through gorgeous green hills and rows of rock fences. It reminded us of a patchwork quilt with different shapes and sections, some dotted with sheep or cows. I felt like I was on the movie set of All creatures great and small - well, we were! 👏
    Our first stop was Fountains abbey and gardens.
    Enjoying a coffee and scone along the way.
    Look it up if you want the history. It’s over 1000 years old. It’s such a vast property with water gardens and incredible buildings in size and beauty. It’s been restored so accurately and the gardens maintained to perfection. We could have been there all day just soaking it in.
    After that we headed into Pately Bridge and got some lunch, did a wander through the main town, visited the oldest lolly shop in the country.
    We then checked into our accommodation and rested up for a couple of hours.
    We had a planned catch up with Yvette who lives in this town. So wonderful to have a delicious dinner with her, hear her stories of the local village and meeting, talk prophecy and signs of the times and see her new home. A lovely lady 💗
    We headed home about 10pm and after another 9.7km walking we are ready for sleeping!    Read more

  • Yve StokesUK July 2025Traveler
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    York, Harrogate

    July 18, 2025 in England ☁️ 24 °C

    Today we had a later start to the day which we enjoyed. Took off on the main one lane highway through various villages to York. 😆
    The fields on the way were less green but obviously being used for crops and were dotted with hay bails rolled up into glorious neat parcels. I love them.
    We arrived at York. Another incredible town full of historic features but notably the walls built in AD71 that encircled a large part of the city. Just wow!!
    We wandered through the York gardens which were lush and the flowers shining in the sunlight. Loved the sunflowers 🌻 and thought of you Janelle x
    We looked at the huge York Minster which was so intricate and Medieval in style as were a lot of the other buildings in that area. We decided not to pay the 20 pounds entrance fee but got a snap at the gate 😉
    We then walked to the Shambles marketplace. How quaint. The shop owners put a great deal of effort into their displays which are appealing and interesting. We had a photo outside Betty’s tearoom and admired but didn’t partake. Famous for Her late Majesties choice of tearoom when in Town.
    I had a delicious lemon cupcake and coffee, Jen a brownie, Danny a pork roll and Trev a ham and salad ciabatta. We all enjoyed our choice!
    We then walked along a section of the historic wall, admiring the sections of wildflowers and the river running underneath. We were going to do the museum but decided we had seen enough relics for one day 🤣
    We drove back to Glasshouses and Jen and I headed back out for a meandering walk through the laneways pretending we were professional photographers 🤣👏 We found a dairy, incredible views and lots of photo worthy flowers, some obliging cows and an old fashioned car heading up the lane. So surreal ❤️
    We then took off to Harrogate where we had pre booked a session at the Turkish Baths. It was a very relaxing experience and totally unique to anything we had done before. The building was old built in 1897, but has always been functional.
    We enjoyed dinner together at a local Italian restaurant and back to do some washing and packing.    Read more

  • Yve StokesUK July 2025Traveler
    1

    York to Birmingham/Midlands

    July 19, 2025 in England 🌧 19 °C

    We packed up from our lovely accommodation in Glasshouses, York.
    Next we visited Sheffield and the house where our Grandfather ‘Dede’ lived as a child. This was so special. We knocked on the door and the obliging owner Mark invited us in but we were happy with sitting in his garden outside. After that we wandered the local Main Street and had coffee and a cinnamon cruffin (croissant/muffin cross) which was freshly baked at a local popular bakery.
    Jen bought some blackberries which were ginormous, sweet, and popped with juiciness. I understand now why Dede grew every type of berry possible at Apollo Bay - it’s probably what he remembered from home ❤️
    After that we drove to the legendary Chatsworth House - Home of Mr Darcy 🎬 no less! It lived up to our expectations of grandeur in every way and understood why Elizabeth Bennet was suitably impressed 😂💗 Jen did a wonderful abridged rendition of The Holy City on the grand piano in the library while I prepared the table with candelabras and ivy for the next fraternal 😆🤩
    We didn’t explore the gardens as we would have liked because of rain and time. It was a time we relished and won’t forget.
    We made our way to Birmingham and on the way got some laundry done. We arrived at the beautiful home of Brother Brian and settled in. Went for a wonderful dinner at his local called Pig in muck and heard many stories. Looking forward to the meeting at Coventry East with him tomorrow.    Read more

  • Yve StokesUK July 2025Traveler

    Wiptoft Lutterworth, Coventry East

    July 20, 2025 in England ⛅ 15 °C

    Today we spent the day with Brother Brian and the Coventry East meeting. Couldn’t ask for a more welcoming and hospitable group. It never grows old the feeling of being able to fellowship with those of our faith on the other side of the globe, hear a talk on the prophecies of Daniel and receive words of encouragement. What a blessing our faith is that transcends time or distance. Met so many that had connections with Australia which was wonderful including Steve Hughes’ cousin Hazel which was great!
    We then went for lunch at The blue Pig a 600 year old Pub where the local families meet for Sunday roast complete with Yorkshire pudding and cauliflower cheese.
    What a nice day spent chatting to Uncle Brian who obviously takes great joy in entertaining and ensuring our every comfort is met.
    Very grateful for our relatively restful day, some piano singing, cups of tea and toast and interesting conversations. Looking forward to our last few days of adventures.    Read more

  • Yve StokesUK July 2025Traveler
    2121

    Wiptoft to Stow-on-the-Wold

    July 21, 2025 in England ⛅ 16 °C

    Today we packed up and said farewell to UBrian who had cared for us so beautifully. So grateful.
    We headed of to our next region The Cotswolds!
    We have heard many reports of its beauty and our drive did not disappoint. Something else to see around every corner. Very glad I’m not driving though. You are sharing the road with trucks, tractors, hay bails, caravans and sheep, all trying to criss cross through very narrow lanes. I’ve been so impressed with the politeness.
    We came to a town called Stratford-upon-Avon.
    We had a photo outside the birthplace of William Shakespeare and wandered the town exploring and finding things that are unique and interesting to read. We then walked up the town river, enjoyed wandering through each lane way, tunnel and church.
    Had a boat ride across to the other side for a different perspective. Saw some interesting boat houses. Imagine living on the water full time?!
    We then drove to Stow-on-the-Wold (Cotswolds) where we settled into our final lot of accommodation for the next 4 nights. We are in a 300 year old cottage that is so quaint. But expertly renovated and restored to maximise modern conveniences. It has multiple living spaces that are beautifully decorated and styled. The oven is a solid cast iron with hot plates that stay on 24/7. Great for keeping everything warm and dry in the kitchen and drying clothes. It’s fantastic but definitely not a QLD appliance 🤣 just imagine! 🥵
    We enjoyed soaking in the sun, having a delicious cheese plate and bubbles for late lunch, photographing the 🐝 bumble bees and realising we have to make the most of our final days here.
    Dinner at a local Indian restaurant was exceptional and then a wander through the town. You walk everywhere here and it’s customary to get lost on the way home and explore. Thankfully we have gps!! We have been working our way through some classic British movies and last night was Pride and Prejudice - an absolute cracker!! Mrs Bennett and her nerves and one liners. Love it.
    Our little twinnies 🌸🌸turned one while we are here so we’ll look forward to celebrating with them when we get home. Happy birthday baby girls ❤️    Read more

  • Yve StokesUK July 2025Traveler
    2

    Blenheim Palace, Diddly squat farm.

    July 22, 2025 in England ☁️ 20 °C

    Today we clocked up lots of steps sightseeing around Blenheim Palace and Diddly squat Farm.
    The main part of the palace building outside was being restored so we didn’t get the full outside effect but they opened up another couple of State Rooms for the visitors as compensation. This included the incredible room where King Charles met with President Zelenskyy recently. The Winston Churchill display and history of Lord Marlborough who commissioned the Palace originally was outstanding. The pipe organ and the library filled with 1st edition books was fabulous - even though I think books should be used, otherwise what’s the point of them? 🤷🏻‍♀️😊 The gardens are filled with vegetables and flowers as the palace is still the home of The 12 Duke of Marlborough! It’s fascinating looking at the early tapestries, cradles for the babies, wedding dresses, lounges, guns, stables, side saddles, dining tables, jewellery, beds, and living quarters of yesteryear. 3 hours can pass very quickly! We enjoyed the garden maize, gardens and palace cricket field very much.
    After that we drove to the famous Jeremy Clarkson Diddly squat farm. I haven’t seen his show but the others have enjoyed some episodes. It was quite a line up to get in but fun and great to see.
    We came home and enjoyed a drink and snacks in the garden 🪴
    We had a restful couple of hours before walking to a 1000 year old pub. It’s the oldest in Britain. Really special. Very grateful for the opportunity to see such a beautiful part of Gods creation. Such lush countryside and beauty everywhere you look.    Read more

  • Yve StokesUK July 2025Traveler
    21

    Bath

    July 23, 2025 in England ☁️ 21 °C

    We set off on a walk this morning to the local coffee roaster who delivered a magnificent brew. Cirencester was our first diversion. A quaint town where the centrepiece was a magnificent church building. Inside was stored the Boleyn Cup. Made for Anne Boleyn in 1535 and later passed to her daughter Elizabeth.
    Trev then pulled over so I could photograph the wheat fields which were so lovely. I jumped a gate and nearly got sideswiped by an energetic tractor driver but all was well! 👍 Photo achieved 🤣
    After that we headed to Bath. We found a central parking space which was incredible and walked to our first destination being the Roman baths. It was so wonderful to see original statues and the geothermal springs still bubbling up after 2000 years! There were heaps of artefacts dating from the time of Christ and an original Denarii. It was tiny and I can imagine it in Jesus hand with the crowd around him when he asked someone to present a coin. What a powerful lesson, Render to Caesar the things of Caesar, and to God the things that are Gods.
    It’s now a world heritage site and I can understand why, it’s ancient and historic and incredibly well preserved. After that we wandered through the streets. We found a display celebrating the 250 year anniversary of Jane Austen. With so much to look at the time went very fast. The Pulteney Bridge was a highlight. How picturesque!! I could have stayed for another few hours wandering around soaking it in. We then made our way back home and we roasted some potatoes and had delicious loaded potatoes for dinner.    Read more

  • Yve StokesUK July 2025Traveler
    A random rose growing on the pavement 🌹
    A random rose growing on the pavement 🌹A special afternoon tea 💗💗1Our final dinner together

    Bourton-on-the-water

    July 24, 2025 in England ☁️ 18 °C

    Today we set off for what is our last day of exploring before we face the homeward journey.
    We visited some magical villages and marvelled at the clear flowing water, water wheels, ancient bridges and walkways that would have mostly had horses clip clopping over them back in the day. We tried to soak it all in as much as possible - the cottages, flowers, ivy, rock structures, trees, birds, bees, fresh air, greenery, antique shops, cups of tea before we hit motorways, airports and the crowded planes.
    As we near the end, I can honestly say we have had a fantastic experience. We walked and walked for miles, explored, read, listened, laughed, admired. We have been captivated, enriched, encouraged and rejuvenated by what we have experienced.
    So incredibly thankful for the company of beautiful family but lifelong, faithful friends who we felt safe with, loved and understood by, oh and we have the same crazy sense of humour. ❤️😅
    Grateful for the safe driving from the boys albeit a few stressful moments in the back for me and Jen!
    Grateful for in the UK…we can speak the language, drive on the same side, drink the water safely, have clean amenities and make a mean cup of tea.
    So thankful to God for his beautiful creation and look forward to the times of refreshing to come when
    “The wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose.”
    Thanks for your encouraging comments and coming with us on our journey. I’ve loved having you here. See you in 50 hours or so Brisbane, God Willing
    😆❤️    Read more

    Trip end
    July 26, 2025