Sunday 1st August Our Scottish adventure incorporating someone specials early 18th birthday celebrations. Our first part of this near three-week trip is to stay for a couple of nights on the edge of the Lake district on the outskirts of Penrith. We have booked to stay in a Certificated Location at Woodhead Farm a short distance off the M6 motorway. Thankfully the site is far enough back from this busy motorway as not to be heard. A warm welcome greeted us, by the owner, as we were shown to our pitch, nicely tucked away in a corner of this well-maintained site with wonderful views looking west out to the ridge of hills bordering the eastern side of the lakes. Decided on a two-night slot rather than the one firstly as there is no rush, we are retired, and secondly to give us a chance to explore Penrith where we haven’t been for many a year. Monday 2nd August A visit and wander around Penrith today. A very pleasant market town, that as tried to develop but sadly, with the number of empty shops in the new development now closed or probably never opened. Nevertheless, the older, original, part of the town was still bustling, despite Covid, and we spent a pleasant morning and part of the afternoon wandering around. On the way back to the CL we stopped off on the hillside with wonderful views of the Lake District in the distance and in the fore front the west coast main line. Took a number of pictures for the view and of the trains that passed through. Tuesday 3rd August Set off mid-morning to travel to our 1st holiday location in Scotland at another certificated location called “Carr’s Hill”, located near to the town of Denny and within easy reach to Stirling and with access via train or road to both Glasgow and Edinburgh. Nice steady drive up North with amazingly little traffic considering it was school holidays and arrived at site around mid-day. We had tried to stop on the way up for a coffee and a bite to eat but without success. Motorway services did not appear to cater for caravans or there was inadequate space. No site owners to greet us today they are, according to the owner of the van next to us, who doubles up as the site gardener and handy man, that the owners of the site are away for several days. Despite that we did know where to pitch, information on the site notice board as we arrived, and I got set up quickly so that Pam could prepare lunch. We are staying here for 14 nights all though two off those we will be away having driven solo to Onich. More on that later. Did very little the rest of the day just relaxed taking in the new views, not as spectacular as before but still pleasant enough. Wednesday 4th August Time spent today exploring the local area with a visit to Stirling, an easy drive, Denny even easier and Falkirk where in each location we stopped and did a bit of shopping but not always buying. Stirling obviously an interesting location, with the usual mix of old and new for the centre, with on the outskirts the impressive castle and on the other side of town the Wallace memorial. Denny, small but with local shops should we run out of fresh produce. Falkirk much bigger than Denny with the usual selection of large food outlets. Falkirk also offers two must see locations, “The Falkirk Wheel”, which we have visited previously, but will go again, and “The Kelpies”. The latter we have seen as we drove North on a previous outing to Scotland and are a definite must for a visit this holiday. Thursday 5th August With the van safely locked and property stored away we set off North to Onich to stay in a B&B on the edge of Loch Linhe in Onich, which for the unknowing is near to Fort William on the western side of Scotland. We are travelling here for two reasons, the first is to join in with the Oswell family (sadly minus Jacob) as they celebrate Ben’s 18th birthday. Secondly, to pick up Ben and to bring him back with us to Denny as he will join us on holiday exploring the area. The stay for Kirsty, Richard, and Ben at Onich is Ben’s 18th birthday present, the one he wished for above all others. He loves the area so much, as a result of our visit back in 2015, when we stayed on the Bunree Caravan Club site in the motorhome. Bunree and Onich are virtually one and the same places! You reach Onich just before you reach Bunree. But where we are staying which is nearer to Bunree than Onich is called Onich. Confusing, somewhat. The Oswells, have been staying in a chalet, for the week, with a view of Loch Linhe and I secured our B&B as we later confirmed, when we arrived 100yards in front of them, actually as close as you could get to the loch edge, and which partially obscured their view. I hadn’t told them where we were staying but had an idea from looking on the internet where we both were in location to the Loch. It was a wonderful drive up with lovely weather, sunshine and blue skies and of course wonderful countryside, ever changing from soaring hillsides to rolling fields and the inevitable Lochs. We stopped off at Tyndrum for a hot meal using the local fish restaurant which had grown, considerably somewhat from our last visit. The reason probably, could be partly down to the fact that Tyndrum is on the route of the “West Highland Way” walk and like today was swarming with hikers of all kinds. A nice meal if somewhat overpriced. We arrived initially at Fort William, having passed through Onich/Bunree as we needed to get supplies in hand for when we are all together at the Oswell chalet. Drove straight to Morrisons in Fort William, stocked up and then headed back to book in at our accommodation for the next two nights. What a place, as close to Loch Linhe as you could get apart from building on the farmers small field in front. The property fabulous, light, and airy with light grey walls oak wood throughout on the stairways, the doors and architrave and the furniture. Simple but very tasteful decoration. Our room large, bigger in fact than our lounge, with two built in wardrobes and a sumptuous en-suite with walk in illuminated shower. Then the best bit the view out of the window with the two comfy seats either side in which to sit, enjoy your drink and cake, both immediately provided on our arrival, and to bask in the vista of the Loch and the surrounding hills. Some location some accommodation. Granted at a price, extra for the window view room but well worth every penny. We both deserved a holiday treat and here it was in a bucketful. Having enjoyed our drink and home-made cake we drove back the short distance to our eager awaiting grandson, poised as he was at the chalet French windows watching our every move as we returned first to our car and then made our way to him. Kirsty rustled up the food we had purchased, and we sat and had a pleasant evening listening to the places they had visited. It was especially pleasing to hear how much Kirsty was impressed with her visit to Scotland, not her first, as we had visited Loch Lomond some many years previously which, she would be forgiven for not remembering. Smitten with Whitby this holiday may have opened up a new view as for the location of future holidays, who knows what Ben may have inspired. Friday 6th August - 4 months to the day for Ben and his 18th birthday We left the now Scottish Oswell Clan, to enjoy there last day together on holiday and set off ourselves to make our way to Mallaig, with the inevitable stop off at the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct. In fact, not only did we do one stop but actually two, one each way, to get close up and personal to this famous structure. The 21 arch viaduct takes the popular tourist attraction steam drawn “Jacobite” train from Fort William to Mallaig and as much is the train popular so is the viaduct for another reason. The viaduct was used in a sequence of a Harry Potter film, hence the large number of Japanese tourists in particular, who flock to the site, having no interest whatever in the marvel of the structure, its amazing construction and in the fact that it curves, such is todays love affair with the world of fantasy and make believe. At Mallaig we are greeted as we arrive with the very “Jacobite” train in the station, having disgorged its passengers, fewer than normal as a result of Covid, and being serviced awaiting its return to Fort William. An interesting terminus for both road & rail with a bustling port catering for the numerous ferry services to the Hebridean islands as well as the local fishing industry. Set up well to cater for the tourists that visit we were able to frequent one of the many restaurants and despite the occasional drizzle, sit outside and enjoy a very pleasant lunch time meal, Having had a stroll around Mallaig, which didn’t take long and with the “Jacobite” looking ready to return to Fort William we set off slowly to attempt to return to Glenfinnan to witness viaduct and steam together. Sadly, that was not to be and despite standing around for some time the train did not appear, so we made our way back to our B&B, once more calling at “Morrisons” for supplies for our joint tea together. Saturday 7th August After saying our farewells to our wonderful B&B hosts and to Kirsty and Richard and with Ben’s gear on board we set off the three of us return to Denny and “Carr’s Hill “site to continue our Scottish holiday. Another easy drive back we arrived back at the CL in time for lunch which Nana in her inimitable way rustled up. After lunch Ben and I erected the awning which upon completion looks like it has reached the end of its usefulness. There are leaks somewhere within the inflatable arms which I have been unable to trace resulting after a day or so with an awning with a very droopy appearance. That evening to eat we decided to check out a Scottish Wetherspoons this one in Alloa called the Bobbing John, named after John Erskine the 6th Earl of Mar. Bobbin John was his nickname which arose through his frequent changes of political allegiance. As is the case we drove to Alloa the scenic route using the motorways heading for Kincardine and crossing the Clackmanshire bridge. A round about but interesting route which gave us an early insight into sculptor Andy Scott, famous as the designer of the Kelpies whose work we came across on the approach to Alloa. His first on the A907 called “This Journeys End and the second in the centre of Alloa called “Lifeline”. The Bobbing John very much a Wetherspoons location in which dressed casually, as we were, we still stood out like sore thumbs, aliens in a foreign land. Sunday 8th August Today we are off to show Ben the “Wallace Memorial”, Pam and I have already been to glimpse it from a distance and look forward to seeing it up front. This is an impressive National monument even viewed from a distance and was erected to one of Scotland’s heroes for his particular victory over we English at the Battle of Stirling in 1297, stands 220 feet high and was erected as a result of public subscriptions some 564 years after the hero’s death in 1869. Now I wouldn’t say anything derogatory, as I have one Scottish friend, but there’s tight with the old purse strings and there’s Scottish. Despite the above, the monument is mighty impressive and the climb to the top, which is up 264 steps, but you are undoubtedly rewarded for your effort by not only the rooms on the way with their display but more so the views as you step out onto the top platform. Had this been built, by the English engineers, in 1296, we should not have lost the battle for it gives a commanding view of the area. However, having said that so did the hill called “Abbey Craig” on which the monument stands – poor showing Redcoats. Back into Stirling to search out there Wetherspoons only for Ben and I to get absolutely saturated, As we located the place the heavens opened and it poured down. The Wetherspoons establishment was at the top of hill and Ben and I, along with fellow sufferers took shelter to watch a waterfall descend down this road. Fortunately, with the road up to Wetherspoons being steep and cobbled we had suggested that Pam return to the shopping centre behind us rather than try to ascend. Thankfully she was dry inside unaware of the deluge outside. With no let up in sight Ben and I started down the hill to return to the shopping centre, arriving back inside soaked from head to toe. My once beige trousers now a dark khaki colour clinging to my legs. To those unaware of the happenings outside, walking about in the shopping centre, in their shorts and short sleeved tops, we must have looked a right pair. A quick return home to the van, thankfully not far away and with the heating on in the car full blast, once home we quickly changed and dried off. That, sadly was not to be the last downpour we would experience. Monday 8th August Today a return for us all to the “Falkirk Wheel” and another chance to ride this magnificent piece of modern engineering and technology or so we thought. On arrival and at the wrong car park, meaning a long walk for Pam, we find out that its ticket bookings only and we will not be travelling on the wheel today! After a quick conflab and despite the walk back to the car we decided as we were in Falkirk we would head, instead, to the “Kelpies”, knowing that we could get to see them without a ticket. After a longer drive than expected we arrived at the carpark and were directed to the appropriate parking space, no charge for disabled and having set up Nana’s scooter we set off for our first upfront visit to the “Kelpies”. On our arrival at the visitor centre, I enquired as to where do we obtain tickets to go inside a Kelpie to be directed to one of the Kelpies where the guide would appear and that this next tour would be the last before lunch. So, with Pam bringing up the rear on Nanborghini, Ben and I sped ahead to try to ensure tickets. Luckily, there was a tour still taking place, so we stood behind another couple also keen to see inside and waited until the tour was over. On her exit with the tour group our guide said yes there would be one more tour before lunch and that she would take payments now and start the tour shortly after she had had a break. Break over we entered inside one of these amazing structures and to witness the incredible way in which they have been built, to hear from our extremely informative guide and to see detailed information panels depicting the amazing journey that took place to bring them to reality. These are amazing creations from a very talented artist whose work we have already experienced and been impressed with even on their smaller scale on our visit to Alloa. However, these are immense, standing proud as they do, so impressive, alongside the M9 motorway on which traveller’s cannot fail to see and be surprised and amazed, whether glimpsed for the first time, or even, like ourselves after passing several times. During lunch at the “Kelpies” café we just missed another prolonged downpour, sitting in the dry watching folks soaked from head-to-toe scrambling for what bit of shelter the roof overhang on the café could provide. Thankfully with adding an extra drink to our meal the rain had abated and we were able to make our way back to the car without getting too wet. Pam was ok as with her coverall she and Nanborghini remain dry. Not so for Ben and I when we have to fold it and put it away. We don’t mind as the scooter gives Pam so much more freedom and enjoyment and the fact that the opportunity for all three of us to participate in exploring as increased. Our journey home, the driver had decided, was to be via the new Queensferry Bridge over the Forth river and then onwards to the Kincardine bridge and Carr’s Hill site. This was the first opportunity to view the three bridges over the Forth and what an impressive sight it makes. Ben and I on a later day out, sadly, without Pam will get a chance to stop and take a leisurely look. Tuesday 10th August Today, a return to what was once a very regular visiting place for yours truly, a return to Glasgow. Rather than drive and have the problem of parking we are going into Glasgow by train catching it at Larbert station. No scooter today as part of our plan is to go on one of the scenic tour bus rides around the city and we are not sure if they can accommodate the scooter. Fortunately, our decision was the right one. Larbert station was only a short drive from the site with adjacent free parking. On our arrival on the platform having purchased our tickets I noticed a plaque in honour of the soldiers of the Royal Scots battalion who were killed in an horrific and much recorded train crash not in Larbert but at Quintinshill, near Gretna Green in 1915. The officers and soldiers of which 210 were killed boarded the train at Larbert on a journey, presumably to the battlefields of the first World war, to meet their deaths in the worst railway disaster in British history. A further 214 officers and men were injured. We arrived in comfort at Queens Street station and despite having picked up a Tour Bus guide previously we didn’t bring it with us so struggle for a few minutes to find a pickup point. Fortunately, as Pam was walking, we found a point reasonably quickly and with only a short wait, stopped, boarded a bus, and paid for our day ticket. Our intention, as well as seeing the sights of Glasgow, a first for both Pam and Ben, was to visit the Riverside Transport Museum which, was on the tour route. En-route the bus passed along Argyle Street, walked along many a time, sufficient for me to point out Brown Street, which was the old head office of Pegler & Louden, the base of Mr Jack England, deputy MD, to become MD once Alec Louden went on to group and the irascible Donald McIver Finance director. Surprisingly, with all the development going on in this area the very building could still be standing! (Picture) After a trip down parts of memory lane and into the places I’ve never seen before we arrived at the Riverside Museum for a very interesting visit if somewhat tiring for Pam, who rightly succumbed, after lunch, and sat out whilst Ben and I continued to tour. A remarkable collection of items both large and small and displayed, especially the display of ships, in a most fascinating and informative way. Although, this display stood out others were as equally interesting and the overall experience, including the sail ship moored outside was well worth the visit and pray note other similar establishments the museum was FREE. What made the ship display interesting, no remarkable, was the fact that the models were of the highest quality. They moved on an overhead rail in a long sausage shape inside a glass case. Strategically place were large Tv/Computer screens, that illuminated when the vessel passed behind to provide on screen an array of information pertaining to that vessel. Details of who built it, when, who for, what size, what weight, what power etc. Absolutely fascinating way of relating information. A display worthy of the history of Glasgow and its precious shipbuilding heritage. There was a small charge to visit the 3 masted “Tall ship The Glenlee” but it was worth every penny. We had an interesting look throughout the ship and a chance, with no facilities open within the museum (Covid restrictions), food was being prepared and served below decks, of which we took full advantage. (Picture) After eating we returned to the museum secured Pam somewhere to sit and continued where we had left off taking in the delights that this museum had to offer. It was after lunch that the pair of us located the rotating ship display. Having to concede that we could stay for ages we decided to call it a day and to head back to catch the tour bus and to continue our tour of Glasgow. This time on the bus we were able to sit up stairs and to better enjoy the views as the bus meandered its way around the west of the city returning nicely to George Square and the railway station. As we only had sandwiches on board Glenlee we decided yet again to Wetherspoon for our evening meal. As it would happen there is one in a prestigious and one would imagine sort after location right on the edge of George Square, the square being the location for all manner of gatherings and festivities, notably New Year. The place ironically is called “The Counting House” and was previously occupied by none other than The Royal Bank of Scotland. (Picture) Save travel home, feet up, relax and watch a DVD. Nice end to an interesting day and for me a bus down memory lane. Wednesday 11th August Today is a justifiable rest day prior to our visit tomorrow, our first but not the last, into the Capital. Thursday 12th August Today is the first of two planned trips to Edinburgh, the Capital of Scotland, the home of their Parliament. Its also “Fringe” time, when the City is invaded with an even larger number of tourists, so its going to be busy and create a few problems for us with Pam on Nanborghini. Again, like Glasgow we are relying on the train to take the strain. Arriving at Edinburgh Waverley we began our exploration starting with a walk up to High Street making our way to the castle. High street extremely busy with the usual number of street performers and their enthusiastic spectators adding to the congestion. Taking our time and watching out for Pam as people appear oblivious at times to her existence and the fact that should she drive into them or for Pam to stop and they walk into her, that they will inevitably come off worse. Thankfully with comments or gestures, polite ones, from Ben or I we avoided such occasions. Ticket only entrance to the castle which we did know because we had tried the day before to obtain tickets but without success. However, we did arrive in time for the noon day gun which to a number of visitors unaware of the ritual, caught them by surprise. From the castle we made a slight detour to visit Victoria Street and West Bow two street names but one street. Their combined curved image the subject of an interesting art project currently being undertaken by Ben. A picturesque area with the brightly coloured shop fronts, with the houses above and then above the house tops on a parallel walkway you had the bustle of people in cafes and pubs. Rather than walk back through the congestion of High Street, Ben with his knowledge of the area guided us down through the pavement restaurants of Grassmarket and around the rear of the castle and back on to Princess Street. A much less congested route and an interesting one to see the wealth of very fine architecture that the city has to offer. Lunch was taken in the restaurant within the National Gallery of Scotland and a very fine lunch it was. We all decided on a bacon roll which, when it arrived was overflowing with bacon and was very yummy indeed. From here we wandered through Princess Street gardens making our way out onto Princess Street heading for Calton Hill and the National Monument of Scotland. Pam happy to sit out the climb up the hill even with her scooter so Ben first then me following set off to ascend to the monument. The hill like a number around the city offered superb panoramic views and was well worth the short climb. A quick tour of the new shopping centre sitting at the foot of Calton Hill then back to Waverley station to catch our train back. Our departure from the city a little earlier than planned brought on by a flat battery on Nanborghini. Luckily, when the battery did go flat that we were only a short distance from the station. Friday 13th August A trip to the impressive looking Stirling Castle today which we have booked in advance. We are learning slowly. On arrival at the entrance, we joined a queue of cars trying to make their way into the car park. It was obvious as cars left the queue that they were not being allowed to park through lack of space. Thankfully, our display of Pam’s blue badge guaranteed our access to the car park. Without it having seen on our exit from our visit where they were being expected to park, some way back into the town and on a very steep approach, we would never have made it. An array of buildings with a wonderful past, remarkable buildings and absorbing displays and architectural recreations which captured your interest and desire to explore the history of the castle. Add to this the sighting of said castle so prominent on the skyline it naturally provided views all over the city and the surrounding area. Would definitely recommend as a must visit for anyone visiting the area. Saturday 14th August A return to Edinburgh today and travel today via the tram system. We drove to pick up the tram on the outskirts of the airport at Ingliston park & ride. An easy drive to the park & ride virtually all but the last few miles on motorway. Definitely easier than trying to drive then park in Edinburgh. We did research taking the scooter on board and found that we needed authorisation. This turned out to be complicated, so we still took the scooter but folded it to travel on board. Our plan for today is to visit the Scottish National Museum with a slight detour on the way back to re-visit Victoria Street and West Bow. Ben wishing to walk the passageway above the shops and houses to take in the view. Another free entry museum and tickets not required and what turned out again to be a thoroughly absorbing museum, one packed with a wonderful variety of artifacts. The range of items on display and the architecture of the building in which they are contained was so interesting we ended up virtually being ushered out of the building at closing time we just hadn’t done it justice in the time we had. In fairness there is no comparison to the V&A, the Science or Natural History museums in London, but they have three buildings as against the one here in Edinburgh. They had however provided a very interesting collection in the one building ranging from Formula one race cars – trains – planes – animal – exploration and so on. Well worth the visit and one you could, being a native of the city find worthy of many visits and still not take it all in. I bet not many do. We returned to High Street and the Fringe commotion and decided it was time to eat. We had had lunch at the museum, just a sandwich, so eating now in Edinburgh would save us the search later back near the site. An Italian restaurant was the choice and a very good one it turned out to be. All three of us thoroughly enjoyed the food, Pam with her spaghetti bolognaise, Ben with his oversize pizza and me with my very tasty lasagne. All typically English type food but safe and enjoyable. We made our way back to the park on Princess Street and treated ourselves to ice cream as we sat in the late afternoon sun and people watched before making our way back onto Princess Street to catch our tram back to the car. Another thoroughly enjoyable day. Sunday 15th August We have booked tickets to travel on the Falkirk wheel and Ben has sorted out how we get to the car park adjacent to the entrance thus avoiding the long trek we had on our abortive visit the other day. The wheel was created to re-link two canals the Forth & Clyde and the Union. These two canals ere once linked but required the intervention of 11 locks. To traverse said locks took nearly a day to achieve. Sadly, the locks were dismantled way back in 1933. The wheel which stands 35metres tall was officially opened in 2002 by Her Majesty the Queen, but apparently time did not allow for her to actual travel on said wheel. The wheel is a remarkable piece of engineering and despite the fact that other than the official tour barges we have rarely seen the general public using the system. Having said that after our tour Ben and I did ascend the hill behind the wheel to the top canal, the Union, where a barge was being negotiated through the top locks in order to make its way down via the wheel. It was fascinating, not sadly for the lock keeper, who was extremely patient with the driver a gentleman of foreign descendants and crew as they completely ignored his instructions. Surprisingly they did make it through the locks but having negotiated the fort tunnel, decided to moor the barge at the approach to the wheel. Whether they ever decided to go through with the wheel or turn back and annoy the lock keeper again we will never know. Our meal this evening was at a Toby Carvery which simply summed up was an expensive disaster. My response to their questionnaire which they asked me to complete some days later when back home was honest and to the point. It never received a follow up. Monday 16th August Pam not 100% last night, we were lucky to get her home in time, not sure what brought on the problem, she awoke this morning still feeling queasy. As a result, she will not be joining us on our pre-paid visit to the Royal Yacht Britannia, which is very sad. This is our last day in Scotland and it would have been better spent all of us together. With Ben navigating we easily made the journey to the yacht which is moored at the Ocean Terminal shopping centre a heavily developed area of Leith a short way from the centre of the city. A real treat to be able to explore a large section of the yacht, especially so when viewing the royal apartments. Not overly sumptuous in furnishings more designed for comfort and relaxation than one might have come to expect having visited both Buckingham palace and Windsor castle. I would imagine that at both of these places the private accommodation to be far less ornate than the places seen by visiting dignitaries. It was to be expected though the stark contrast of the accommodation for the Yotties, the nickname given to the naval crew that manned the yacht. It was not a surprise to note the number of crew that were on board and the very restricted space that they had available. For the Yotties this is possibly no different to accommodation on board any naval vessel. A very interesting visit and one that I had looked forward to ever since the yacht had been permanently moored at Edinburgh. Sad, that Pam could not have been with us a situation I need to rectify some time in the not to distant future. Our last day, this holiday at least, in Scotland. Tomorrow we travel south heading for Pocklington, a small village on the outskirts of York, now the location of home for Jacob & Liam. Tuesday 17th August I decided to take the A1 route, rather than the recommend M6 to Penrith and then the A66, to reach our destination for the next three-night holiday staying at Pocklington. I had located a CL on the outskirts of the village and booked same some months prior. A near uneventful run down which took just over 4 hours. My only one mistake was in overtaking two slow lorries on a dual carriageway which nearly ran out of two lanes before I had fully overtaken the second. Needless to say, for what I sped up the lorry did not make any attempt to slow having seen my predicament. All I got was a blast on the horn and presumably rude comments. It’s rare I make that kind of mistake, especially with family on board and especially not with the caravan in tow. Our arrival at Martindale Farm confirmed my choice of venue for our short stay. A very nice CL, in fact an ideal small rally site with hard standing pitches and a wide expanse of lawn directly opposite. Add in shower and toilet facilities, all that one could ask for. We contacted Jacob to let him know that we had arrived, and he said that he would come straight from work as it was on his way home and then guide us back to No 2 Plumb Walk. Liam at home and happy to guide me around their new property and explain what the two of them have planned for each of the rooms in the way of use, furnishings and a number of immediate alterations/ additions, like extra tiles in one of the bathrooms, they have two, and the possibility of a inbuilt shower, essentials in their eyes. After a thorough inspection it was clear that the boys had brought wisely, in the location of the property and the very property itself which was finished to a very good standard of work. In the evening we drove into Pocklington and decided on a meal at a local hostelry which the boys kindly treated us to. Wednesday 18th August Jacob is off with us for the time we are in Pocklington, and he rang early to ask if Ben would like to come over to the house prior for some time together prior to what we had planned for the day. Ben happy to do so and it wasn’t long before Jacob arrived in the Fiesta to pick him up. He isn’t allowed to use the company car, emblazoned as it is with “Specsavers” all over it, for non-business use so it was fortunate that Liam was starting work on a late shift today. We had planned to visit “Burnby Hall” today which both Jacob and Liam have high regard for as a local attraction. The hall is within walking distance for Jacob, so he and Ben met up with Pam and I at the arranged time. The hall has immaculately maintained gardens, covering five different areas and two lakes, the upper and lower each stocked with the most amazing fish, Carp, Roach and Rudd, numbering several thousand according to their web site, which love being fed at the waters edge, some so eager they scamper on to the grass edge virtually out of the water. An amazing sight. Within the lakes the hall boasts as being home to the national collection of over 100 species of hardy water lilies. A brilliant location, one which as obviously appealed to Liam and Jacob to the point that they have already become annual members. Disappointing that we were unable to sit and eat lunch in the grounds, the queue for places and to order far to long, so we decided to drive into Pocklington to locate somewhere to eat. It turned out to be a wise choice as the café we chose was excellent value for money, offering a wide selection of food. Jacob has duly noted, he will be back, as will we, more likely, when we visit our grandson. We spent a pleasant evening at No 2 enjoying both our grandson’s company before return to the caravan. Thursday 9th August Our last day of this wonderful holiday and where better to spend it than at Mathewsons at Thornton Le-Dale. For the un-initiated the auction house featured on the TV program “Bangers & Cash”. Amazing how small the building, which is Mathewsons appears, there must be more at the rear but today, maybe due to Covid, we were unable to see. I did make a purchase, a Bangers & Cash mouse mat. But the highlight for Pam and I was to actually meet and greet “Bossman”, Derek Mathewson. Head of the operation – chief honcho. Neither of the grandsons appreciated the chance encounter! Had lunch in one of the local pubs which had been recommended by Liam’s parents. Excellent recommendation – quality food at reasonable prices in a truly Yorkshire pub surroundings. After lunch Jacob persuaded us to visit nearby Hutton Le-hole which we were happy to do so. An interesting scenic village with few buildings set within a recess of hills with a meandering stream running right through the centre. A difficult location for Pam to negotiate on Nanborghini, with few proper pathways, but she persevered. On the way back to the car Jacob and Ben went off to explore the nearby National Park whilst we waited at the car park. Tea taken at No2 Plumb Walk, after Pam and Jacob disappeared out to the local shop to purchase supplies. A great couple of days some thankfully with Liam enjoying what is certainly a very nice location. The house is amazing and will look even more so when it is fully furnished. What a start on the property ladder a brand new detached four bedroom – absolutely brilliant. Pam & I wish them all the love for the future together. Friday 20th August Making our way home today having enjoyed a wonderful time away. Difficult to pick a highlight so I won’t. Though, the B&B at Onich was wonderful, even if a little expensive. Meeting up with Kirsty, Richard and Ben in Scotland I didn’t think possible. Getting Kirsty away from Whitby I thought when it was being muted – no way. How wrong could I be? Visiting a number of new venues as well as returning to old more familiar ones all rewarding, especially so, in the company of Pam & Ben. Thanks to Nanborghini, only once did Pam miss out on experiencing the delights that Scotland had to offer and then only because she wasn’t feeling too well. Whether we shall return time will tell. Whether Ben returns especially to Bunree – a certainty.
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