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July 2017 - United Kingdom
  • Wanderinghands
July 2017

July 2017 - United Kingdom

A 24-day adventure by Wanderinghands Read more
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  • Trip start
    July 4, 2017
  • WanderinghandsJuly 2017 - United KingdomWanderinghands

    Transit!

    July 5, 2017 in Malaysia ⋅ ⛅ 25 °C

    Arrived in KL after our night flight. We both managed a few naps but nothing meaningful so here we are in the lounge waiing for our showers, always a good way to spark up.
    A green tea for me, it is 6.30 am, probably too early for liquor!?!?

    Phil - I'm tired (already)!    Read more

  • WanderinghandsJuly 2017 - United KingdomWanderinghands

    Still in transit and then, we're here!

    July 5, 2017 in England ⋅ 🌙 21 °C

    Thirty two hours door to door - leaving home till checking into our Kensington apartment.
    KL to Heathrow was a drainer, a lot of nothingness and little rest. The last time we did this length of trip was to Paris Business Class. Economy is very different on the long haul!
    Arrived at Heathrow, spent ages in the queue for Passport Control, bought our train cards at a ticket machine and Phil lost his credit card....... for about 10 mins. He went thru his pockets, wallet and looked around twice, then I did the same and eventually he found the card on the ground under a piece of luggage. PHEW!!!!! Just a little too tired.
    Caught our train and arrived at apartment just before 6.30 pm.
    Had dinner at a local pub which we can definitely improve on in the future and wandered a local shopping/restaurant strip to stretch our bodies.
    10pm and we are crashing, an early finish so we'll be right tomorrow for our first day in London.
    The good news is that all of my online shopping had arrived and was waiting for me on arrival! Makes life very easy!

    Phil -so glad to finally get here. First beer and food was not great but we both did not care, we just needed to sleep.    Read more

  • WanderinghandsJuly 2017 - United KingdomWanderinghands
    Houses of Parliament and Big Ben
    Covent GardenMonument to the Great Fire of LondonBorough Market - fresh fishBorough Market - amazing mushroom selectionWestminster Abbey

    London by bike

    July 6, 2017 in England ⋅ ☀️ 24 °C

    Our first day in London, and considering I woke first at 1.30am and thought it was 4am or later I haven't done too badly. I did get more sleep but it was all over the place.... Still, didn't feel too bad in the morning so munched thru breakfast when it arrived while trying again to get online Wimbeldon tickets with no luck so headed out from our apartment in Earls Court and caught the tube to Waterloo to join the half day bike tour of London that we had booked.
    The sun was shining brightly as we kitted up with our pushies and headed off. It was great to see that my bike had one of those big wide seats - something you can actually plant your butt on.
    A 30C day in London, couldn't believe our luck! Wonderful to be out and about.
    As usual it seems mandatory that people that can't rides bikes feel the need to learn whilst in another country by booking on a bike tour. This equates to entertainment and disaster. Interesting combination in traffic!
    I have to say cycling thru London in the traffic was certainly more disconcerting than cycling thru Paris or Florence. Felt as though there were moments of russian roulette and also saw two accidents.
    Whilst cycling around we saw the Houses of Parliamemt, Big Ben, MI5, MI6, Samual Johnsons house, Covent Garden (where I found time for a gelati), Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, St Paul's Cathedral, Trafalgar Square and London Eye.
    We made it back to base late but unscathed and headed off on foot to walk thru Borough Market which is a very nice food market with lots of cheese, fresh meats (crocodile, kangaroo, wild boar, camel, zebra), fresh pasta, breads, cakes, fruit and veg, wines and more). Something for Vic Market to have a look, as its more like South Melbourne market.
    From here we walked over London Bridge to the Monument to the Great Fire of London. Phil decided to climb it when we got there, 311 steps each way and then we walked down along the Thames for a way towards Tower Bridge before walking back, finding a little pub for 'refreshments' near the river before battling the peak hour tube ride home.
    The day was finished off with dinner at a nice little Thai restaurant and a chat with local people on the table next to us.
    Walking home and almost at our apartment one of the Wimbeldon courtesy vehicles stopped and a player with a huge bag of racquets and companion walked into our apartment building right before us. Although the face looked familiar I can't think of his name.
    The night before another vehicle had also dropped a player further up the street so its nice to know they all want to stay near us!

    Phil- I woke at 3.30 am ready for a big day. First time I have had jet lag and now understand how people can be confused. The bike ride could have been a disaster and riders could have been hurt. Weaving between cars and going too fast, the guide had no idea how to run a good tour. The traffic is bad. The population has grown but the streets have not. This is what Melbourne will be like in 10 years. Proved my fitness level climbing to the top of the Monument. Mind you, I was stuffed when I got home.    Read more

  • WanderinghandsJuly 2017 - United KingdomWanderinghands
    Regents Canal narrow boat cruise
    Regents CanalCamden MarketCamden MarketMargarita time at Camden MarketAbbey Road zebra crossing

    Canal cruise to start the day

    July 7, 2017 in England ⋅ ⛅ 21 °C

    I literally fell asleep last night as I couldn't keep my eyes open. That rarely happens.
    Woke up this morning at 4am ready to do it all again only to find out it was only 4am.
    Daylight hours here are amazing at the moment. It's not dark till about 10.30pm which means you dont realise how late your day/night is when you are out because it is still light and this morning when I woke for the first time I noticed that it is quite light by 4am.
    Lucked out again for Wimbeldon tickets so headed out on the tube to Little Venice to take a canal cruise (Jasons Cruises) on Regents Canal. We arrived earlier and watched life on the canal. Lots of narrow boats line the canal, with almost 24,000 people living on narrow boats on canals.
    There were paddle boarders out on the still water, sharing space with the swans and their cute babies.
    The canal cruise was lovely - slow and relaxing on a day of perfect weather - 28C.
    We travelled thru tunnels, under bridges, along the back of Regents Park and a section of the London Zoo.
    Our trip was one way to Camden Market so we climbed off the narrow boat an hour later and went exploring thru the market.
    This market was so much fun. All of the street food stalls looked great with such variety and the rest of the market ranged from souvenirs to eclectic to quality products. The architecture in the place is fantastic too. We loved our time here and would have loved to spend hours here.
    We finished off our visit with a columbian dish for lunch followed by ginger margaritas from the mexican restaurant.
    A three km walk to help neutralise the expansion of our waistlines took us from the market to Primrose Hill for views of London, then onto Abbey Road zebra crossing and Abbey Road Studios so Phil could walk back and forwards across the crossing along with many others trying to get the perfect shot like every other tourist there.
    The poor traffic are very frustrated by the antics of the pedestrians here.
    From Abbey Road we took the train back to Oxford St where we experienced the shopping contrasts of Selfridges with its excesses and brands before visiting Primark (Kmart on steroids) just a little further along the street where everything is cheap, plentiful and crowded.
    In between I managed to buy my second pair of shoes in the UK already.
    Next stop on the pavement was a walk down New Bond Street where everything is for the richer than rich folk on our way to Victoria Secret before we made it in the door of The Ritz for a champagne. The experience was short lived before being advised we didn't meet the dress code so would not be able to stay. Phil was wearing shorts!
    Feeling unloved we headed home, stopping at a pub for a drink although not the same as The Ritz, that is for sure, before dining Lebanese tonight.
    The guy sitting closet to Phil during dinner had us in stiches trying not to laugh at his nicely coordinated outfit in a becoming masculine shade of grape, along with his mannerisms and expressions.
    Going home with wilted bodies we chuckled all the way along the street.

    Phil - I'm in London. It hit me today and Wendy cannot get the smile off my face. Having grown up with "on the buses" with Reg Varney, the " Carry On" movies with Sid James and Steptoe and Son, I was able to re-live all those memories. Walking across Abbey Road was magic. So many doing it, they have a live web cam to show you how funny we are all marching across the road. Camden Market was the best market I have ever been to. I actually wanted to buy so many things, but my sensible wife persuaded me not too. If I ever get back, I will spend a full day there, and fill my bags of goodies.
    Wendy has been amazing, walking so far and allowing me to indulge myself. Like jumping on a double decker bus for 4 stops so I can say I have been on one. As I was directing the tour, I gave her a special detour to Victoria Secret. Funny how we got kicked out of the Ritz. Probably a better story than actually getting in to have a drink.    Read more

  • WanderinghandsJuly 2017 - United KingdomWanderinghands
    Beefeater at Tower of London
    Tower of LondonWalking Tower BridgeViews from Sky GardenFilm Museum - Bond in Motion exhibitionPhil waiting for us to be invited in for tea at Buckinham Palace

    Skyline views

    July 8, 2017 in England ⋅ 🌙 19 °C

    Up and about for another full day that Phil has said this morning will be fairly easy to achieve. Hmmm.....
    First stop wasTower of London. Dragged Phil to the Crown Jewels display first which meant it would mix up the order of his tour because that building was further away from the entrance. We walked straight in, no queues. Different story when we were leaving a few hours later. Those queues were quite long - thank you wife.
    After the jewels we took a Yeomans 60 min tour with a Beefeater that had no problem with self esteem.
    It was interesting to find out though that to have his job (there are 37 of them) you must live in the Tower grounds and that the gates are locked at midnight so if you not home you're not coming home. They even have a Dr live onsite as you are isolated when locked in.
    Also of interest was the fact that you must be ex military with a good conduct medal to apply.
    Anyway, after his tour and history lesson we continued around to other sections of the palace.
    Exiting you walk out onto the boardwalk along the Thames and very near to the Tower Bridge. We took it upon ourselves to walk across the bridge and back, with a crowd of tourists.
    Just before we walked across the draw bridge was lifted to allow access for a vessel. We had a good view for that.
    From here we then walked to Skygarden, taking the lift to the 35th floor. This is three levels high at the top of a city building with various restaurants scattered across the levels.
    The views were great covering 360 degrees of London.
    We were very lucky to get in as I tried to get tickets last week and there were none left. Phil looked last night and there were three tickets available. Yay for us, he booked two of the three tickets.
    it was very relaxing up there so we found a spot to chill and ordered ourselves a drink to savour the moment. I chose a Moet with the confidence that it would actually be chilled here. Phil also needed to take out a new mortgage to pay for my induldgence.
    Next stop was Bond in Motion, an exhibition at a museum of many of the vehicles, bikes, a snow plough, small aircraft and various underwater stuff used in the Bond 007 movies. Phil's day just keeps getting better and better.
    After this we headed to Westminster Abbey. Admired the outside and that was it because who knew that it closes early on Saturdays for sightseeing. Disappointing as I remember it being amazing inside. It will have to wait till another visit to London.
    Final item on the agenda was Buckingham Palace. So some more pounding the pavement and we were out the front. Strangely no one was at the gate to meet us and invite us in for tea, so we just had a casual stroll by and headed into Greens Park where we took a quick break on the grass under some trees along with thousands of others. Saturday and 27C of sunshine equalled rent a crowd in the parks.

    Phil - Another exciting day. The Bond exhibit was amazing. Each car had a film clip of the movie it was in, but I already knew this as I have seen them, many many times. Really lucky to get into the Sky Garden. Great views, and got the brownie points with the Moet. Having seen the Queen coming out of Bucky Palace and down the road so many times on tv, it was good to be able to stand there and now be able to say been there, done that. They had the gay pride march on, so there were lots of rainbow flags and face paint in the park. We have certainly done Lots of London in 3 days, and now look forward to going bush.    Read more

  • WanderinghandsJuly 2017 - United KingdomWanderinghands
    Another very cute studio apartmentOld Town evening walk at duskLocal Inn in the Old Town

    Edinburgh

    July 9, 2017 in Scotland ⋅ 🌧 13 °C

    Our 4 1/2 hour train trip was uneventful although we had Mr Booming Voice in front of us. Loud but happy with the world after his night out at the U2 concert last night.
    Phil had to turn his volume up on his free movies to hear them.
    We arrived just after 3pm and we love it here! The buildings are magnificient, so full of character.
    Shame about the weather. We have gone from heatwave 27-30C in London to 15C with a cool breeze to drizzle and then rain in Edinburgh. Needed to unpack to drag out the jackets and umbrellas before we ventured anywhere.
    We then took a late afternoon walk in the local area and picked up breakfast supplies on the way back, which means my man gets to cook for the next few mornings.
    While out we saw an ad for a 18+ History of Edinburgh walking tour which we went back and joined at 6.30pm. It was just an hour of chuckles and information on the local history covering topics your not likely to hear anywhere else and a fair amount of swearing which you are warned about at the start. It did fit the situation. Best described as entertaining, enlightening and inappropriate! It even included a detailed history of the Merkin!
    We then headed to a local pub for dinner and were just like 'locals' ordering fish n chips and shepherds pie!    Read more

  • WanderinghandsJuly 2017 - United KingdomWanderinghands
    Edinburgh castle
    Edinburgh CastleRoyal Britannia State Dining RoomGreyfriars BoobyOne of many local taverns in Old TownLaneway in Old Town

    Royal Britannia!

    July 10, 2017 in Scotland ⋅ ☁️ 11 °C

    Awoke to the drip, drip, drip of precipation outside our window, not heavy, but definitely wet!
    After chef Phil made us bacon and eggs we headed out to face the day.
    Our first attraction was Edinburgh Castle, and by the time we got down the hill to collect our tickets the man suggested we get on the bus instead of a very wet walk.
    As I said it wasnt heavy, but it did travel sideways which creates a real challenge trying to keep dry.
    The camera was tucked inside my two jackets but each time I pulled it out to take a pic one handed (other hand holding umbrella) it seemed to get covered in mist again.
    We enjoyed the castle but I am sure we would have enjoyed it a lot more on a dry day. Even when you went inside buildings they were wet from everyone else. And the views from up on the hill were definitely limited today.
    I don't like whiskey, but Haha, my highlight was probably tasting a whiskey liquer at one of the gift shops and it was great, and a very handy heart warmer on the day. Phil and I even managed to get a second round of tastings and went back and bought a bottle before leaving. And, since being home tonight we may have sipped our way thru a few more measures each.
    A hearty soup lunch was perfect today to take the body chill away and then we went back outdoors to find a bus to take us to the docks to visit Royal Britannia, decommissioned by the Queen in 1997. We both really enjoyed the tour thru many of the rooms on board, and indulged in a visit to the Royal Deck Tea Room for tea and cake and hot chocolate and scones.
    Can you believe it, all the beds on board, bar one, are single including the Queen and Prince Phillips. The only double bed was brought on board by Charles when he married Diana, for their honeymoon.
    The state dining room was stunning and still used today for corporate events and private functions, if you have the dollars.
    A bit more shopping after disembarking, including my third pair of shoes and a bus back to the Old Town where we are staying.
    It was still dry following the ease up of rain earlier so we walked to Greyfriars Kirk (Chuch) and Graveyard to find Jonh Grays gravesite. The statue of Bobby his dog is outside the graveyard with a shiny brass nose as everyone rubs it for luck as they pass.
    By the time we walked back we decided it was Beer O'clock and popped into one of hundreds of taverns and soaked up the character of the place and a few refreshments.
    By this time its 8pm and another day is done!
    The maximum temperature today was a big 13C. Brrrrr...

    Phil - Edinburgh is a town that could easily take you back in time. The architecture is amazing and in the old town they have not spoilt it. The buildings are the same as they were 100's of years ago. And the town is huge, so it is not just the case of a few buildings, it goes for miles.
    Basically, you have a small range of stores. There are pubs everywhere and these is some record for the most pubs per capita. Then there are the tartan, cashmere, and kilt shops. So many I don't know how they survive. And then the whiskey shops. You would think that with so many whiskeys made around here it would be cheaper. Not the case. Very expensive.
    The royal yacht was very interesting. There were pictures of the royal family in normal clothes and doing normal things, something that you just don't see.
    The range of boutique beers here is huge. Many on tap. Very hard to decide what to have, but I am working my way through them.    Read more

  • WanderinghandsJuly 2017 - United KingdomWanderinghands
    Holyrood Palace
    Holyrood Palace GardensHolyrood Palace Abbey ruinsBetween Deans Village and Bernards WellSt Giles Cathedral, Old Town10pm at night and still like daylight

    Edinburgh variety

    July 11, 2017 in Scotland ⋅ ☀️ 12 °C

    We may have woken to a dry day but by the time we walked out the door the rain was back.
    Not timely as we were walking to the other end of the Royal Mile to visit Holyrood Palace, the Queen's summer residence. She probably needs to review that based on the weather we have experienced! I could give her some other ideas for locations.
    The Palace was interesting and oh so old. It was fasinating that as old as everything was in the rooms we saw that they are still used for State functions with the Queen.
    After the palace we caught a bus back to town and hopped off at Charlotte Square in the New Town. From here we walked to Deans Village, Bernard' s Well and onto Canonmills (forming a section of the Walk of Leith). It started off quite a beautiful picturesque walk but I was disappointed as we got further back towards the city. We ended up cutting the last part of the walk and heading into town to enjoy some shelter from the rain and soup in a café.
    After lunch we browsed thru a few more streets and made our way back to the Old Town. Later in the afternoon we went to an entertainment experience (I think that's what you would call it) called the Edinburgh Dungeons. I did initially suggest to Phil that he might like to go solo but he assured me it would be fun. I have since realised I should have gone with my gut instinct. It was two hours I will never get back in my life!
    Later we went and relaxed in another old tavern, stayed on for dinner and went shopping looking for another bottle of the whiskey liquer that we bought yesterday as we have already been downing the contents enthusiastically and will have nothing left to return home with.
    Tonight the sky is clear and blue for the first time in three days and remembering that it doesn't get dark until very late I think it will even be colder later on.
    Edinburgh has been a delight to visit but in the morning its time to move on again.

    Phil - We have certainly "done" Edinburgh. Lovely old town. Last night I was accused of short filling the shot glass with whiskey, and this evening I am walking down the street with the water and Wendy has the bottle of whiskey!!!! Scotland has turned her.
    Yes, the Edinburgh Dungeons could have been better considering the reviews. Very corny and the actors who tried to scare you, did their best. You have to try these things.
    Had fish & chips for tea. The mushy peas are good and I will be looking for the recipe when I get home.
    About to pick up the car tomorrow, so off we go bush bashing.    Read more

  • WanderinghandsJuly 2017 - United KingdomWanderinghands

    St Andrews golf course

    July 12, 2017 in Scotland ⋅ ⛅ 15 °C

    It's a very mild 17C, no rain and a very gentle breeze as we stroll around St Andrews Golf Course. We certainly weren't expecting these conditions.
    Phil's eyes are darting from tees to fairways and bunkers to greens and the understatement is 'its certainly a nice course'.
    It only cost GBP90 ($150) to play this 'nice' course. The course is closed today as it is hosting the Scottish Under 16 Boys Open. Do they have any idea how fortunate they are?

    Phil - I had not planned to take the detour to St. Andrews, but glad my wife placed it on the agenda. Great day for it, as there was limited wind and not too cold. As the golf shop guy said, we usually play Scottish golf here. If you go off the fairway you are stuffed here. Can see why it is tough in the wind and I would need a few balls as the fairway runs very close to the ocean.    Read more

  • WanderinghandsJuly 2017 - United KingdomWanderinghands
    Cairngorms National Park
    Cairngorms National ParkTasting at GlenfiddichTastings at Glenfiddich, ughh!Hanging out with the Glenfiddich logo.Home for tonight - Conval House B & B, Dufftown

    Glenfiddich, Dufftown

    July 12, 2017 in Scotland ⋅ ⛅ 12 °C

    From St Andrews we were on a mission to make it to Glenfiddich for the 3pm distillery tour and tastings. Winding narrow country laneways, roadworks and a road closure reqiring a detour put paid to that. We aimed for the 3.30pm after making a phone call to switch tours and made it for the 4pm after parking outside our B & B for tonight and walking to the distillery.
    Not the ideal drive but the scenery was beautiful. I'm sure we drove to the top of the world on a couple of ocassions thru the Cairngorms National Park.
    We did drive thru two ski resort areas and they were huge. The first one, Glenshee has something like 36 chairlifts and 40 runs. There was no snow anywhere but a number of chairlifts were running for people to go walking. The next one was Lecht and even had a mountain bike track down the side of one of the mountains for summer use. Bikes were bouncing about on the track!
    The tour at Glenfiddich was interesting and finishes off with four tastings per person. As I don't like whiskey I would have a sip and hand the rest to Phil. Hence the reason we walked there and wandered back!
    Dinner was at a local a little bit later and the food was quite good. After dinner we walked the local streets in what almost seemed to be a ghost town, with hardly a person or any traffic to be seen. Check out a few other pubs and they too were empty or nearto.
    Best idea was to go home and pour a healthy measure of whiskey liquer.
    Our B & B is a lovely looking old house and we have a corner room upstairs with beautiful views of rolling hills across the road.

    Phil - Ok, today was fun. Yes, I did not get out of bed early enough, and placed pressure on us to get to Glenfiddich on time. But that's where rental cars come in handy. Little Astra was like a rally car around the small roads and laneways that were only one car wide. Yes, I did make up time. (No you didn't).
    The ski fields were great seeing them without snow. This place would be amazing in winter.
    After 8 shots of whisky in 10 minutes, I was primed. Then a great meal at the pub, with another local ale, and a whisky liquer at home. Possibly best day overseas. Lots of fun, as my lovely wife had planned for me.    Read more

  • WanderinghandsJuly 2017 - United KingdomWanderinghands

    B & B life

    July 13, 2017 in Scotland ⋅ ⛅ 14 °C

    The home we stayed in last night has been bought four years ago after being left empty for a number of years as it had been the residence of the Vicar of the church next door.
    It is work in progress and only a few rooms are available at a time as others are being done. Even our lovely upstairs corner rooms new ensuite was missing the shower as the plumber had gone to trek the Himalayas.
    Unfortunately! We had to share the shower room downstairs with the very attractive french male guest!
    Our bed was so cosy, as if it wanted to snuggle around you.
    The Breakfast room downstairs is the place where all food inhibitions are thrown aside.
    A beautiful bowl full of fresh strawberries and blueberries preceded cereals, yoghurts, toast, and the main dish of eggs, bacon, sausage, tomato, mushroom, hash brown and beans, along with juices and hot drinks. Would you like anything else Linda asks!    Read more

  • WanderinghandsJuly 2017 - United KingdomWanderinghands
    Loch Ness
    Loch NessNevis Range GondolaView from Aonach MorLoch view from Onich Hotel

    In search of Nessie and more

    July 13, 2017 in Scotland ⋅ 🌙 11 °C

    We leave Dufftown behind and travel the roads north to Elgin on our way to Inverness. Along the way we were fascinated to see a yard of sheep being shorn out in the open by a few shearers working together with a portable shearing frame and generator.
    Only what appeared to be a castle in the centre of Inverness caught our attention as we drove through. Not a problem though as Phil's priority is to locate and identify Nessie in the Lochs between Inverness and Fort William.
    On the drive along the loch we stopped at The Dores Inn for some good pics of the Loch and a dose of brisk breeze off the water, brrrr.
    It is a very picturesque drive but has some very narrow stretches which means you also need to keep your eyes on the road and use passing bays when traffic comes from the other direction.
    Phil, surprisjngly, did not spot Nessie!
    About mid afternoon we arrived at the Nevis Range just north of Fort William. Here we took the gondola which goes from 300ft up to 2150ft on the north face of Aonach Mor, the eighth highest mountain in Britain. (Ben Nevis is 4411 Feet high).
    Fortunately the weather was relatively clear for this area with only the peak of Ben Nevis covered in cloud.
    When we came out of the gondola station we could then see several more chairlifts that would be used during the winter season. From here you can also do a number of walks from 40 min round trip to a number of hours. There is also a mountain bike track which looks like a BMX track on steroids. Your bikes can be attached to the exterior of your gondola for transit. I have no idea how anyone makes it down that crazy track in one piece.
    We did the short walk and took in amazing views and stood our ground in wind that was determined to put me over the edge.
    Our timimg was great as it started to rain just as we got back on the gondola for the trip down.
    The rain put paid to our next planned walk to Steall Falls so we headed to Fort William and visited Neptunes Staircase which is an eight lock system which allows vessels to pass from the Lochs to river by stepping down the water height. We were lucky to see three yachts come thru the locks together while we were there. Its effective but a very slow system.
    After this we drove onto our hotel in the still heavy rain on the south side of Fort William. The hotel is located on the waters edge.
    Dinner was excellent here and once the rain passed the views of the Loch with sunrays bursting thru the clouds were beautiful.

    Phil - Ok, after seeing Loch Ness I doubt if there is a Nessie. Great for tourism. Bloody big stretch of water though. Also very cold water.
    So far we have had luck with the weather, and a 1 hour drive in the rain is all I have had so far.
    We were on top of the world today. Great views all round, and it is interesting seeing a ski field with out snow. Gives it more perspective.
    Good meal tonight, so thats two in a row now.    Read more

  • WanderinghandsJuly 2017 - United KingdomWanderinghands
    Between Fort William and Oban
    McCaigs Tower ruins atop ObanEnterprising wee un in ObanStreets of LussLussWindfarms south of Glasgow

    Loch, Loch, Loch and other things

    July 14, 2017 in England ⋅ ☀️ 14 °C

    Yesterday we followed the waters edge of many a Loch and today is similar.
    We leave Onich shadowing lochs until we reach port town Oban. A very pretty seaside village where we do our best right at the start to upset the status quo by trying to drive up a narrow walkway.
    Realizing the error of our ways quite quickly when some bollards appeared in front of us on the slope we reversed back down and turned down another narrow laneway for our getaway. Eventually we parked our car in town and made the walk up to McCaigs Tower ruins to take in the views of Oban port and back down again before taking a wander in the main area.
    On the way to Oban and around Oban we have even had time to take a video call from Chloe & Anthony at Etihad to watch St Kilda v Essendon. You just know that isn't going to end well for someone. Chloe kept Phil up to date with the scores and he and Chloe were today's sad faces. A big difference to last week.
    No time to dally today though so back into the silver streak (aka Astra).
    We have then followed the length of Loch Lamond which has provided some stunning scenery and slow traffic. We pulled into Luss for an essential stop and snack. You find this place is quaint when you start to wander the streets. And, it has a smoke house - yum.
    I now have local smoked salmon pate in the car. Can't wait to buy biscuits. I will be in a very happy place when we sit down to relax with the pate, biscuits and liqueur.
    South of Glasgow I think we have discovered 'power central'. We have passed by possibly 150-200 wind turbines on the surrounding hills. Obviously a breezy neighborhood!
    Eventually we arrived in Windermere in the Lakes District at 6.15 pm.
    A big day behind the wheel for Mr Hands.
    Scotland has now been left behind to discover more of England.
    We found ourselves in a Spanish restaurant for dinner and enjoyed relaxing over tapas with sangria and beer.
    What do you know, it started raining and we didn't take our waterproofs with us when we walked into town which meant a brisk walk home to minimise how wet we got. So much for relaxing, have to laugh!

    Phil - Big drive today. 325 km. At the start I am on roads that are only wide enough for 2 horse drawn carts. I am sitting on an average 20 miles per hour, no passing lanes and slow locals who are on their way to church. I have lost track of the number of vehicles in front of me, who have nearly had a close encounter up their exhaust pipe.
    Then I hit the motorways. Yippee, although the Astra needed another gear.
    I was sitting on 74 mph, 118 kmp, the speed limit, and had a stack of cars passing me going at least 90-100 mph. Great road , 3 lanes wide each way, over 400 kms long. . This is what we need from Melbourne to Sydney.
    Massive number of wind turbines all over the hills. Most I have ever seen. In Australia we are worried about the pink bellied, black bum parrot getting killed by the rotating blades. Looking at the pace they travel, if a bird gets hit by one, I would say it should have opened its bloody eyes.
    Having a bit of trouble with the language. Once some one starts talking quickly, I am gone. It is all jumbled up, plus the accent just makes it all another language. So as much as I am trying, Wendy then takes me to a Spanish restaurant where the waitress has a major spanish accent, and I have no idea what she is saying. Mind you, she was not sure what I was saying either, so I got my own back.    Read more

  • WanderinghandsJuly 2017 - United KingdomWanderinghands
    Steam train to Haverthwaite
    Bowness on Windermere pierHaverthwaite train stationAmblesideBowness on Windermere pierLocal home in Windermere

    Cruising

    July 15, 2017 in England ⋅ ☀️ 18 °C

    Breakfast was sumptuous! Everything you could want and scrambled eggs and salmon. Yay!
    And that was after enjoying the complimentary treats downstairs when we came home after dinner last night - chocolate cake for supper for us. There are also two different types of biscuits and another cake. In our room we also have a container of other biscuits, all home made. Even the danishes at breakfast this morning were home made.
    It certainly was not a perfect summers day, but on holiday it is what it is, get on with your sightseeing or miss out.
    It rained until about 4.30pm but at least it wasn't heavy.
    We walked from our B & B in Windermere to the pier at Bowness on Windermere to take a lake cruise from Bowness, south to Lakeside pier. From there we climbed aboard a carriage of the steam train for the round trip to Haverthwaite through the countryside along the river.
    Once back at Lakeside we cruised back to Bowness to catch a cruise to Ambleside. We spent a few hours wandering around a very pretty village that has certainly embraced tourists and started marketing everything they can.
    The slate homes and fences in the Lakes District are just amazing wherever you go.
    The views on the lake were beautiful ever though a little blurry today through the mist.
    Back on the steamer boat to Bowness and once back on land it was time for refreshments and thankfully the rain eased off. Into a bar we went for a mojito and pint. A very busy place but relaxing just chilling, watching the world go by, along with a few hens parties and a buck in baby nappy and bonnet!
    Dinner turned out to be italian tonight and was very enjoyable and for a change we had a dry walk home.

    Phil - Not a heavy rain, just a misty to light rain most of the day. It did not stop us doing anything, but the boat cruise would have been better with sun.
    Interesting that in all of the towns we have been to, there are many notices in shop windows looking for workers. All different positions, waiting, retail, cooks. Yet I have still seen beggars and homeless in the streets, especially Edinburgh. If they cleaned themselves up, they could get a job.
    Looking forward to tomorrow, where we hit Liverpool and the Beatles.    Read more

  • WanderinghandsJuly 2017 - United KingdomWanderinghands
    Leaving Windermere behind
    The Beatles Story exhibit, LiverpoolThe White Room, Imagine, John LennonOut with my new friends, the Fab FourThe Cavern ClubRocking at The Cavern Club

    Beatles mania!

    July 16, 2017 in England ⋅ 🌙 13 °C

    We left behind beautiful Windermere, Lakes District and great home cooking at our B&B. I even felt obligated to take some cookies with us as'travelers'.
    We chewed up the miles on the motorway whilst I played Beatles tunes on Spotify, and before I knew it we were in Liverpool about to experience an overdose of The Beatles!
    We parked and walked to the exhibition 'The Beatles Story' which is on the waterfront.
    Phil was twitching with excitement and read the print off every item on the walls. But that wasn't enough. It was then a walk from Albert Docks to Pier Head further along the waterfront for a mini exhibition of more Beatles and other artists. We could have skipped this, very soso. But, there was a statue of the Fab Four outside which was good for a photo opportunity.
    The waterfront is quite enjoyable, particularly as we had sunshine and 19C today! A very pleasant change. I had to layer down from my usual four layers of clothing over the last week.
    Enough of the Beatles, not yet, Abbey Road in London, the exhibition in Liverpool and now to the Cavern Club which was one of their first performance venues.
    The club is in Mathew Street and the whole street pulses Beatles. Every bar and club, eg., The Cavern Club, Sgt Peppers, The Cavern Pub and several more are there for your Beatles enjoyment.
    The Cavern Club is down five flights of stairs and looks like a series of underground tunnels. We arrived before 3 pm and the band were playing a Beatles set.
    The music was great, everyone knows the words, the place is packed and humming! Loved the vibe here, could have stayed for hours.
    Once we left we walked around Liverpool for a bit of a look see, strolling thru the main town area and over to the Cathedral which was spectacular and massive on the outside. I was looking forward to wandering inside only to be headed off in the foyer to be advised that the Cathedral was closed for another hour as a special service was taking place for the Queens Representative of Mersey. That was inconvenient!
    We are done with The Beatles so back to the car to drive to Chester for a few nights.
    Our accommodation this time is a very old two bedroom cottage - double storey with old fashion key lock in the door, old fashioned fireplaces in a few rooms and a few mod cons discreetly hiding, mainly in the kitchen.
    Tonight was dinner in a nearby pub with the locals and their pet pooches and just as we were leaving after Phil had tried another few pints of different lagers again (who knew there could be so many) a guy came in to set up for quizz night. I asked him if it was only British trivia and he said yes, you probably won't know anything so to finish off another big day i have come home to drink wine and do some laundry so that we can wear clothes tomorrow in public!

    Phil - What a special day! I had been looking forward to this day. The Beatles exhibit really gave an in depth history. Then to go down the steps of the Cavern Club was a true highlight. I had a tear in my eye the same as when I saw the Eiffel Tower the first time.
    We are only on this earth once, this is not a dress rehearsal, and to work hard and have the opportunity to travel the world and be able to tick off these things, is what life is all about. They were playing Beatles songs and everyone was singing. Fantastic!
    We are in a typical old english cottage. Living downstairs, 2 bedrooms up stairs. Gives you a better idea of what it was like 100 years ago and of course we get to wash all our clothes.
    The pubs in England like to let dogs in. I questioned a waitress tonight and found that they do this so husbands will walk their dogs. They pick up the lead and tell the wife they are taking the dog for a walk. Really they are going to the pub for a pint. I commented that I see this a lot in the Fred Basset comics, and she agreed.
    Would have been good to stay for the trivia. Every pub has trivia on a certain day. I wanted to take on the Brits but was told the questions would have a UK flavour so I didnt need this handicap. Pity, as all my friends know how good I am at trivia, haha.    Read more

  • WanderinghandsJuly 2017 - United KingdomWanderinghands
    Motor boating on the river
    Red tail eagle at the FalconryFalconry showEastgate ClockChester Cathedral

    Chester

    July 17, 2017 in England ⋅ 🌙 16 °C

    After stocking up on breakfast supplies last night and Phil popping out to the local award winning butcher this morning we had a delicious breakfast before walking out the front door and heading into Chester proper.
    The skies are blue! That's exciting, its been a while.
    We are in a lovely old original two bed estate cottage just outside the City Wall.
    Today we are going to 'relax' compared to recent days, well that's the plan.
    Our walk took us into the city looking around at the old streets including the Chester Rows which are the streets that had a second row of shops on another street above ground level.
    We kept walking thru the city to the rear of the Cathedral when the Falconry resides. Our show had been cancelled for a private booking and the only other show was not for a few hours.
    In the meantime we decided we would walk the circuit of the City Wall which has a footpath on top of it.
    Half way around the wall runs along the river and we noticed that cruises were happening and people were hiring row boats and motor boats. On such a glorious day it seemed a must so we went down and hired a motor boat and putted up and down the river checking out the prime real estate and views.
    We dropped the motor boat back, bought an ice cream and climbed back up on the wall to finish our circuit arriving back at the Falconry with 15 mins to spare.
    One of the handlers was showing around a python so I decided to hold it too. I was surprised it was smooth, soft and warm and didn't try to strangle me.
    The birds of prey came next and showcased three birds over 50 mins. During the show I had a chance at catching one of the birds. He just glided in from one of the trees and landed on my gloved arm.
    After the show we went into the Cathedral, which is huge. The interior was incredible and that big you could probably get lost. Apart from it having so must history they also showcase many modern sculptures.
    After the Cathedral it was time for refreshments, dropping into a tavern that served 2 for 1 cocktails all day.
    Next was another restaurant/bar and then an old hotel where we enjoyed a relaxing chat with the manager, barman and retired golf pro.
    If we had stopped at each tavern between the city and our cottage we would be curled up somewhere between here and there very tired and emotional.
    That's Chester done for us!

    Phil - this was to be our relaxing day. We still walked miles. Wendy was brave holding the snake. We did our mini pub crawl, 3 establishments, to get home. There are pubs everywhere here, each usually with about 5 drinkers. Not sure how they all exist, but at least we helped them out today.    Read more

  • WanderinghandsJuly 2017 - United KingdomWanderinghands
    Leeds Kirkgate market - 1857
    Interior of Leeds Kirkgate MarketFirst Marks & Spencer - 'don't ask the price, it's a penny'.Something to do with Harry PotterThe Shambles, YorkNear The Shambles Market, York

    Leeds and York

    July 18, 2017 in England ⋅ ⛅ 19 °C

    Breakfast a la Hands again before we begin our trip to York.
    Yay! The sun is shining again - a forecast of 24C. This is the way to holiday!
    It's only a short trip for us today so stopped in Leeds at Kirkgate Markets, which began in 1857 in a beautiful old building with glass roofline.
    The market is a bit ho hum with not many businesses there so not sure if other stall holders come on other days but it was definitely quiet today. The food stalls - fruit & veg, fish & seafood and butchers were looking really good and fresh and I did wish I could buy lots more produce here than just the bag of cherries I purchased, but the other stalls - clothing and things!? Did not fit my shopping criteria. Although, I did find one very nice dinner jacket for Phil in quillted black velvet and satin lapels!!!!!!
    And, there is a stall of Marks & Spencer, which was the site of the first store in 1884 with the motto 'don't ask the price, it's a penny'.
    Leaving Leeds Chloe & Anthony gave us a call whilst I am getting Phil lost for the first time. All good fun in the car for a while!
    Now in York we have checked into our lovely apartment and walked into The Shambles for a wander thru the area and the Shambles Market. Sitting at home now with my glass of Prosecco before dinner. Phil and I are eating the strawberries I bought at The Shambles and they are probably the best strawberries I have ever eaten, seriously! (Tomorrow I will be going back to that lady to buy more).
    In The Shambles Phil found a store - The Shop That Must Not Be Named - which had a queue outside to get in and has something to do with Harry Potter. Apparently you would know all about it if you are into Harry Potter. In the window are the sorting hat, broomstick and owl.
    On the way home we had to try another english pub to keep the economy going and not for the first time when I ordered a Pimms it was to hear they don't have it. I thought Pimms came from here????
    So, after a Peach Schnapps on ice while Phil samples another lager we go home to plan our own dinner tonight and I have started with the Prosecco and can follow up with Green Ginger Wine that I found the other night in a store or the delish whiskey liquer that is running low.

    Phil - Tonight I cooked up some pulled pork, mashed potato and greens. I can see why the younger generation don't cook. For Aud 12 we were able to buy everything, just ready for heating. A bit like the Jetsons, where they just push a button in the kitchen, and voila, it appears. The supermarkets have full isles devoted to quick meals. Lots more variety than in our shops.
    Harry Potter is big here, and I am hoping to buy a wand tomorrow, but remember, "the wand chooses you".    Read more

  • WanderinghandsJuly 2017 - United KingdomWanderinghands
    York Minster
    York MinsterView from top of York Minster on Tower climbOne of the Gates to the City WallSt Mary's Abbey ruinsNational Railway Museum

    York

    July 19, 2017 in England ⋅ ⛅ 20 °C

    York in a day!
    Out the door of our apartment to join the early queuers at York Minister, a place you can't but your tickets on line in advance.
    Turns out it was a good idea as it was possible to take photos without anyone in the way and Phil was able to book for the first Tower climb.
    No doubt about it, the Minster is huge and impressive, but I think I preferred Chester Cathedral.
    Phil enjoyed his climb up 275 narrow twisting steps and snapped the views whilst I had time for reflection and relaxation waiting for him in the Minster.
    Next from the Minster we only had to take a few steps across the street to join the free walking tour we had scheduled into our day.
    The guide who looks like a bikie with his black jacket, black jeans and very long hair with beard thrives on history and for three hours he was in his element. He downloaded all his knowledge onto us non stop and whilst comprehensive and interesting at the time I will not remember a thing. Still the walk he took us on to view various sites and to walk part of the city wall was good as we saw places we would not have come across ourselves in a visit of a few days. We also got to enjoy a very pleasant tea and cake break during the tour.
    This afternoon when the tour finished Phil and I parted ways as he wanted to visit the National Rail museum somewhere in York, so I took myself off wandering the streets and The Shambles area where I eventually stopped off at the outdoor area of a tavern backing onto The Shambles Market for a relaxed shandy.
    A very pleasant afternoon had by all, catching up at our apartment at the end of the day to go out on a dinner date - Thai tonight.

    Phil - The steps to the top of the Minster were a bit tricky. The winding staicase was only a few centimetres wider than my shoulder width. The steps only gave me half a foot space to use. But I made it, and was able to get a good view from the top.
    The train museum was massive and incredible. It's supposed to be the biggest in Europe. There were at least 25 full steam engines plus carriages. Even the train that Queen Victoria and the previous king travelled in were there. Good to give Wendy a break from my indulgences, and me, as she would have been very bored.
    Came home to a well needed drink and what is on the tv - Carry on Cabby, With Sid James. I could have also watched George and Mildred, and I cannot believe that Coronation Street is still on. If you have no idea about the previous sentences, then don't worry, and enjoy your youth.
    Big day tomorrow, and I also will get on the net to see how my under 14 basketball girls went without me.    Read more

  • WanderinghandsJuly 2017 - United KingdomWanderinghands
    Major Oak in Sherwood Forest
    Robin Hood statue -Sherwood ForestWarwick CastleRoom in Great Hall, Warwick CastleViews of Warwick CastleInside Warwick Castle

    Here, there and everywhere!

    July 20, 2017 in England ⋅ 🌙 13 °C

    Today was a transit day but we still managed to fill it with a variety of stops.
    We loaded up the car and left York behind at the same time that the rain began.
    Not a very enjoyable drive for the next 1 1/2 hours with the rain but we arrived at Sherwood Forest in pursuit of Robin Hood armed with umbrellas and waterproof gear.
    Although no Robin in sight we did find the Major Oak which is suffering from old age and is supported by many upright poles and ropes.
    Next stop another 1 1/2 hours later, which sent us slightly off route was Rieker Factory Outlet (shoes). Bargain time, the shoes were at least between 1/2 and 1/5th of the price in Aus. I walked out with four pairs (one of which was for Phil) which now takes my shoe purchase total in the UK to seven pairs, including the pair for Phil. Packing to go home is going to be interesting. And, the rain had just faded away - at last.
    Just under another hour of driving and we find ourselves parked three car spaces from the enrty to Warwick Castle with dry skies. Premium parking!
    This complex is huge and quite interesting covering several acres. The setup, furnishings and stories in the great hall are extremely well done.
    You can also get some great views of the area and town from The Mound or the Castle Walls. You can see why families could spend a day here.
    We did the dungeon tour and it appears that all dungeon tours follow the same script, in some skits, word for word. I will never be seen at another one in my lifetime and Phil is now aware of this.
    We departed at closing time and only had a half hour drive to Stratford Upon Avon where we will spend the next two nights.
    Found a lovely old pub, the oldest pub in Stratford - The Garrick Inn, with a bar area smaller than my bedroom.
    I'm very pleased to say that I probably had the best Pimms here that I have had anywhere., sorry Sharon!
    And the dinner choice was Indian.

    Phil - No Robin Hood but at least I can say I've been here and can see how easy it would have been for Robin and his men to hide in the forest. Especially in their trendy green outfits.
    Just when you think you are castled out, you go to Warwick Castle. It's huge and well spread out. They have really good wax models in most of the rooms and there is an audio story told. I did over 500 steps up the towers, so I am keeping up the average.
    I had to get petrol today. The guy behind the counter spoke to me and I had no idea what he said. Three times I said pardon, and eventually he pointed to a loyalty card he was flogging. We are all speaking our brand of the english language.
    The waiters last night, and tonight don't understand my sense of humour. Wendy says I just should say yes and no, from now on.    Read more

  • WanderinghandsJuly 2017 - United KingdomWanderinghands
    Birth home of William Shakespeare
    Shakespeares grave at the altar of Holy Trinity ChurchHoly Trinity ChurchWalking the Avon TrailThe Garrick InnAlms Row

    Stratford Upon Avon

    July 21, 2017 in England ⋅ 🌧 15 °C

    An easier day, although cool and windy, which began with a two hour walking tour of town which we came across while wandering and which covered many of William Shakespeares homes and places of interest around town including the medieval and tudor architecture. Yet again you see areas of town that you probably wouldn't come across on your own.
    Following the walk we needed food so went wandering on our own and came across a tearoom with an amazing display of cakes in the front window. That made up our mind, in we went. I can't imagime how anyone could walk past this tearoom and not go in once you gape at the display. There would have been at least 15 cheesecakes, 15 cakes, pies, soup, sandwiches, baguettes, wraps, slices, scones and more......
    Phil had a great chicken baguette and hot chocolate that was like a sundae and I had a piece of huge apple pie and mulled wine.
    We rolled out of there very happy and headed to the river to walk some of the Avon Trail along the river, returning as the rain began and stopped off at an Inn for refreshments before heading home to make dinner plans.
    After our day out and about we both agree it is a lovely town.
    We returned to our room to find it had not been cleaned, upon enquiry finding it had been forgotten.... so I requested an immediate service. We ducked out to allow housekeeping to do her job while I spoke to Reception about a problem which was to be resolved which in due course included an offer of complimentary drinks while waiting for our room.
    I also found out that we were supposed to have Club Lounge access. Yay! Just another example of the disorganisation here. So off we went, free drinks for us and into the lounge for the 5-8pm complimenary service of hot and cold treats and bar, soft drinks and hot drinks.
    Whilst chilling in the lounge two ladies from Sydney came in that had been on our walking tour this morning so we had a fun chat and nibbled and sipped our way thru the evening. No longer any need to go out for dinner and fate is a wonderful thing because it is pouring down by this stage at 8.30pm.

    Phil - I love this town. So neat and tidy, old style buildings that have been kept well.
    I didn't know much about old William Shakespeare till now, and find that he was responsible for most of the english language being documented. Pretty cool dude.
    Funny how fate took over the evening. Problems in the hotel saw us getting into the Club Lounge with free grog and food. Got to love that!    Read more

  • WanderinghandsJuly 2017 - United KingdomWanderinghands
    Narrow lanes between villages
    The Swan Inn, SwinbrookMorning tea at The Swan InnSt Marys, Bampton (really St Michaels)Private home filmed as Isobel Cawleys home and Village GreenLocal home in Bampton Village

    Village cruising

    July 22, 2017 in England ⋅ ⛅ 12 °C

    Today was about me!
    Even though I hardly watch any TV I was a big fan of Downton Abbey.
    Phil took one for the team and chaffeured me thru the villages used for filming locations of Downton Abbey.
    But first stop was Anne Hathaways home on the outskirts of Straford upon Avon as we left town.
    First Abbey stop was The Swan Inn in Swinbrook which we found along a single width lane when we rounded a corner and there it was beside the river.
    This was the scene where Branson and Sybil planned their elopement. It is a very quaint inn and had a great outdoor area at the back too, but of course light rain began so we settled for the window seat in the front room beside the 'blue room' for our tea and hot chocolate.
    From here we travelled to nearby Shilton where the Forge which was used as The Red Lion Inn sits beside the ford.
    More narrow lanes and further away we came to Bampton Village, a lot larger than the last two but still very cute.
    This location was used for a lot of filming - St Marys Church, the village green, Isobel Cawleys home, the village street for the Post Office and Dirty Dog Inn, and the local library which was used as the Hospital and Doctors surgery.
    The ladies in the library were funny. The volunteers have set up a room with Downton souvenirs and local hand made handcrafts to raise money. The conversations with them were a wee bit funny and I am sure they both make a point of not leaving the village if possible.
    These wonderfully quaint villages in out of the way places were exactly what I had been waiting for. It is so much fun wandering around there places.
    Next stop was the Manor House Farm in Cogges were the filming for Yee Tree Farm was done. The rain was now much heavier and whilst we sat in the car we decided that wandering around a farm area was not fun and that for the first time the rain had beaten us. Time to venture onto our next accommodation stop.
    We are staying in a loft above a garage built by owners that live at the front of the property in their thatched cottage that was built in the 1600's. This couple only started renting out accommodation a year ago when the wife turned 70. She looks 55. Fantastic!
    Dinner was across the road at the local pub which is saying something as we are staying on a country lane outside of Oxford. Fortunately the food was great.

    Phil - I have only glanced at Downton Abbey on tv when Wendy was watching it, so I am not sure of the storyline. However, going to these very small hamlets and seeing how they are still clinging to the past is amazing. You can easily think you are back in time, and somehow you feel relaxed. Maybe our kids should all get a mandatory one week per annum visit to these places to de-digitalise.    Read more

  • WanderinghandsJuly 2017 - United KingdomWanderinghands
    Walking from North Hinksey to Oxford town
    Balloil College Dining RoomThe Divinity SchoolStanding on a bridge crossing River ThamesCycling along Heritage Trail on Oxford CanalAt the Turf Tavern

    Oxford in a day

    July 23, 2017 in England ⋅ ⛅ 15 °C

    A big day out!
    As we are staying in a local village (North Hinksey) bordering on Oxford we decided to walk into town instead of trying to find parking. It was 30 minutes to where we had to be to meet our booked tour. This morning we had booked a 3 hour tour which was a combined 2 hour walk and 1 hour bike. There were only three of us for the tour, which makes it very personal and easy to interact.
    Our guide was a recent physics uni student with Balloil College which was founded in 1263 and he was able to take us thru his College where others couldn't go. We visited the quad, the chapel and dining room, whilst talking about how great it was living there and how the process of all 38 Colleges works under the umbrella of Oxford University.
    Then we went to the Sheldonian Library which holds graduations for every College, the Divinity School next door where graduates prepare for graduation ceremony and the filming sight for Harry Potters Duke Humfrey's Library, the Bodliean Library, Weston Library were we went into the Treasury Room which showcases 20 chosen pieces per year from the 12 million held by the library. We actually saw a copy of the Magna Carta amongst other amazing written pieces of history, the Radcliffe Camera (another library), Hertford College where the Bridge of Sighs links two of its buildings.
    We then walked back to the bike racks and picked up what were possibly antique student bikes and went riding around Oxford with several other Colleges being pointed out to us along with various faculty buildings and then out to Port Meadows and over river Thames.
    From here it was to be a ride back to the city centre but we left our guide and one other tour member as we had arranged to borrow our bikes for the rest of the day. We kept riding out along the river alongside the meadow until we reached Binsey village stopping at an Inn for lunch but it was booked out so kept riding along the Thames and thru fields to Godstow and Wolvercote where we stopped at an Inn for a light lunch out the back with the locals. After lunch we continued and moved across to the Oxford Canal and rode back to Oxford along the Heritage Trail.
    We loved our afternoon cycling along and the beautiful views.
    The weather fairy was watching over us today. The weather forecast was mostly rain, but it didn't eventuate.
    After we returned the bikes we walked to The Turf Tavern which our guide had pointed out to us where it resides down an alley which is a very popular student haunt. This tavern is also the tavern that Bob Hawke, Rhodes Scholar, downed a yard of ale in 11 seconds in 1963 whilst he studied in Oxford. The record has not yet been broken. It is also the same tavern that Bill Clinton, another Rhodes Scholar, allegedly smoked marijuana, but assures all he did not inhale!
    After a relax over a drink in the coutyard we walked the 40 mins back to our loft and have put our feet up while savouring a whiskey liquer.
    Today is done and I think we will sleep!

    Phil -Big day. Oxford is not what I expected, but after touring and hearing about it, I can see how it all comes together. Not as big as I thought it was going to be, as all the buildings are near each other. Each college has its own garden and lawn area inside its walls.
    Good to go to Bobs pub, as it has come up over the years and now I can say I have been there, done that. (Well, I had half a pint).    Read more

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