Created by KeefH Web Designs , June 14th, 2024, 7.11 AM
Not The Motorhome trip No 21 : May 23rd 2024 – June 16th 2024, in that time we spent a wonderful 18 days together initially in Cumbria after a somewhat fraught Brum airport collection, then time in and around the East Midlands, oh what family fun, thanks so much Doug and Phoenix for coming over, love G&G xxx
By implication as this Travel Blog has many images and videos of our 4 grand children I have separated out those images / videos and made them PRIVATE on You Tube, should you wish to see them you will need ask via email keefh@keefh-web-designs.org.uk thank you for your understanding
MENU
INTRODUCTION
Doug, Phoenix & family flew over to us from Singapore via Istanbul on Turkish airlines from Changi. They had a long but OK-ish journey arriving at Birmingham airport. We and Craig went to pick them up. Granny & Grandpa (here after called G&G x) managed not to find a car parking slot in the nearest car park and eventually decanted to car park 5, a bit of a walk back to the arrivals lounge. Unfortunately due to a "misplaced" piece of luggage all manner of negotiations were going on. All resolved (at a price!) later in the break thank heavens. On a political front can't believe how much the cost of airport parking has increased since Covid to drop off or retrieve your love ones, shame on you british airports. #hintsandtips
We returned to Hellinger base camp for sustenance / bit of relaxation before travelling up to our Dragons Fell cottage just outside Kendal. 2 cars , Leanne and kids travelled up on Saturday, us lot on the Friday. The journey was not without incident for our youngest family member, poor lad, car sickness often for him, I really felt for him, just awful.
Arrived in Cumbria and had to solve the mind puzzle of why the key didn't fit the front door. Hmm, supply by Steve (cottage owner and his cohorts) was a bit of a theme in the minus column for this holiday. The week in Cumbria was lovely with the usual English mixed weather but oh so nice to spend "quality time" with our extended family. You can delve into our various trips and escapades in this travel blog under each relevant heading, maybe use the MENU.
Enjoy, we did!
Note all my slideshows and videos feature music by the wonderful Mike Oldfield, yes he of Tubular Bells fame and the 2012 London Olympics. Feast your ears! #music
Prefer to listen to the audiobook?
DIARY
This travel blog diary will give you a simple overview. I have included the calendars for May and June, the split being Cumbria mostly in May, East Midlands in June
HIGHLIGHTS & LOWLIGHTS
Highlights Many, especially being with family, hot tub, Station inn bank holiday family day, BBQ at Craigs, meet the neighbours, Charlie's horse riding, Eaton Farm carvery, Conker's and the high wire escapades, Charlie being allowed by Mrs. Handley (ex Singapore Amber Road) inside Edie's classroom, Aquarium on Windemere, Return boat trip on Windemere and Edie learning to count in Mandarin
Lowlights Rain (but hey it is the lake district) and the UK summer 2024, not ideal for Singaporeans used to 27c and 100% humidity "I'm cold Grandpa", Cottage cleanliness etc. etc., Car parking for Windemere, Glebe road car park confusions and lack of making the pay app work in the deluge #smile you have to else you would cry! Why does the boat on Windemere only have open sides upstairs (hint... don't be at the back of the tourist queue when boarding #hintsandtips)
OVERALL Slideshow / Videos / Panoramas
All 3 families took many photos and videos on their phones throughout the holidays and published them on our private FB messenger group, smartly named HOOFERS by Doug #smile "Hellinger's Only Others Forbidden" #geddit These videos and a amalgamation of the majority of those captures of what was a truly wonderful time, so nice to be able to share so much time together.
The slideshow / videos or "talkies" as we prefer to call them, capturing true voice (well almost #haha ) of the time for later revisits and memories are 1) Non grandkids , you can view 2) Grandkids images, PRIVATE, need request access 3) Talkies with Grandkids, PRIVATE, you need request access. I hope that is clear.
CUMBRIA OVERVIEW - Dragons Fell Cottage Stay
We stayed for the week Friday to Friday in Dragonsfell Cottage, 2 Kinn Barns, New Hutton, Near Kendal, you can see an overview here , for a limited time as it has already been sold. Visit the unique motorhome travel blog link by KHWD
The cottage sadly was a little underwhelming but that big room and hot tub (despite its sewage smells when we first took the cover off ) was a blessing for our extended family to get together for a week. Like most things there were pluses and minuses. Its location however was ideal. Lovely walks outside the cottage. Here's a map which shows you , we are off the first steep wiggly road going north on Kinn Road, and down that road any of us had the pleasure of meeting the baby fox close up. Please take care on taking up the offer of "click on larger map" it doesn't always work, just use the + or - options, they always work, thanks KeefH Web Designs #investigatefurther
Kendal town was nearby, Windermere just 8 miles.
Kendal is a historic market town with a fine reputation for shopping, Kendal nestles on the banks of the River Kent and is known as the Southern Gateway to the Lakes. Its old cobbled lanes and byways branch off the attractive main street, and the stone ruins of 12th century Kendal Castle sit perched on a hill with views over the town. Visit The Abbot Hall Art Gallery, its regular collection holding portraits by Kendal born George Romney and works by Turner and Ruskin, with other exhibitions through its links with the Tate. Both Sizergh Castle and Levens Hall with its superb Topiary Garden are nearby, as are limestone escarpments for easy walking, offering thrilling views of the Lakeland Mountains, the Howgills and Morecambe Bay. Kendal itself is ideally placed for exploring South Lakeland, the Yorkshire Dales and beyond. With other attractions such as Kendal Museum and the Museum of Lakeland Life, the fascinating Quaker Tapestry, Lake Windermere and the wider National Park within easy reach, Kendal provides a superb base for a relaxing break.
Oh and here's the recent house sales pitch #hintsandtips #smile
This exceptional barn conversion, located in a stunning rural valley, offers a unique opportunity to acquire a truly remarkable property. With five double bedrooms arranged over three floors, this property provides ample space for a growing family or those seeking additional space for guests. Upon entering the property, you are immediately greeted by a sense of charm and character, with exposed beams throughout. The spacious living accommodation is perfect for entertaining, with a well-appointed kitchen leading onto a generously proportioned dining area. One of the standout features of this property is the integrated double garage and additional parking for three additional cars, ensuring plenty of parking for residents and guests alike. The versatility of this property cannot be understated, as it not only serves as a delightful family home but also offers the potential to create a self-contained annex on the lower ground floor. This presents an exciting opportunity for anyone looking to generate additional income or provide a separate living space for relatives. In recent years, this property has proven to be a highly successful holiday let, further highlighting its desirability and investment potential. With its proximity to Kendal and the M6, it is conveniently located to attract tourism and ensure easy access to nearby amenities and transport links. In summary, this barn conversion offers a unique opportunity to acquire a spacious and characterful property in a picturesque rural location, while also only being a short 10 minute drive to Kendal. With its versatile layout, successful holiday let history, and potential for further development, this property is a must-see for those looking for a barn conversion that truly encompasses the very best of country living.
CUMBRIA - SAT 250524 Dragons fell cottage and relax
After travelling up on the Friday, which was a long journey as we all collided with the usual Friday max exodus of workers who work away during the week wending their way home, Saturday morning was spent unpacking, shopping and relaxing in the hot tub, a very useful family fun facility for the cottage. The kids seem to love it. Grandpa had got loads of water balloons from Temu which came in use later on in the week, great fun along with playing Craig's Finnish wood chucking game (sorry cant remember the name, but sounded like an IKEA product #teehee )
Leanne and kids arrived early afternoon so we were all one big happy family. We did a lovely outside BBQ as the weather was so good, eating indoors as the outside furniture was really only fit for putting on the BBQ as fuel. OK complaining over, you can tell I wasn't impressed, underwhelmed I think is the line I used with the owner Steve.
Here are a couple of videos reflecting that day. Clearly the same privacy rules apply when Grandkids are concerned, sorry! Apologies for the ghastly images included of the rancid water containers in the garden, they were used to point out that having mosquitoes near a family hot tub isn't a great look.
CUMBRIA - Sun 260524 Lakeland's Maize Maze Farm Fun
Travelled to the farm park at Sedgwick, not far from our holiday cottage. A lovely place for kids. The maize maze hasn't grown tis year as yet, even though planted up on the hill but the cafe had images of previous ones, all having a theme and very clever and no doubt challenging. We did the simple wooden one with puzzles and that was more than enough for me.
It was a little wet outside but we found more than enough to do inside. Animals, feeding the ferret. #class We then had lunch in their cafe, whilst the kids used the indoor play centre and climbing wall. Keef, Doug, Phoenix and Alfie then left for various chores but mostly to let Ned sleep and catch up his jet lag. The rest did the tractor ride and a whole lot more in between showers, it was one of those days.
Want to read more? Visit the unique motorhome travel blog link by KHWD
OR
Here’s a bit of a summary of Lakeland Maze Farm Park, located in Sedgwick near Kendal, Cumbria, it offers delightful family-friendly experiences. Here’s what you can expect:
Farm Animals and Pet Encounters:
Set on a working farm, the park features a variety of farm animals that visitors can see and even feed.
Meet llamas, alpacas, and other friendly creatures.
Outdoor Activities:
Enjoy tractor rides around the picturesque surroundings.
Participate in animal encounter sessions (both outdoors and undercover).
Explore the outdoor play area, complete with a sandpit, trampolines, go-karting track, and more.
The Maize Maze:
During the summer holidays, challenge yourself in the giant maize maze.
Navigate through the twists and turns as you explore this seasonal attraction.
Indoor Facilities:
Rain or shine, there’s plenty to do indoors.
Visit the soft play area for younger children.
Engage in animal handling sessions (availability based on demand).
Picnic Area and Refreshments:
Take advantage of the outdoor play and picnic area for a relaxing break.
Grab light refreshments while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
Children’s Parties and Group Visits:
Lakeland Maze Farm Park is an ideal venue for children’s parties.
It’s also perfect for group outings and celebrations.
Whether you’re exploring the maze, petting animals, or simply enjoying the fresh air, Lakeland Maze Farm Park promises a fun and memorable experience for all ages
We all had great fun, even though it rained a lot and was particularly cold for our Singaporeans. Keef took Doug & Phoenix shopping and to allow Alfie a snooze as more than a little jet lagged and they were preparing a lovely Rendang meal with spice pastes etc. bought all the way from home.
Granny stayed on with the other Grandkids and Craig and Leanne. It seems the tractor ride and outdoor activities in between rain showers were a highlight.
See the various slideshow, clearly the same privacy rules apply when Grandkids are concerned, sorry!
CUMBRIA - Mon 270524 Station Inn lunch and more - Bank Holiday
We had pre booked dinner for 10 of us at the Station Inn, Oxenholme as it seemed to be the only pub open in the area for Bank Holiday Monday. We used the hot tun first thing as the weather was good, indeed it was great all day. We arrived at the pub, probably first customers. A lovely meal for all but the icing on the cake was the fact that the pub had a 3 day festival on in its grounds. Magic shows, bouncy castles, ice cream van, play park, obstacle course, hammer throwing, just ideal for the kids, and most relaxing and enjoyable for the adults. Many folk in costume, scooby doo, cowboys etc. The highlight was when Alfie with his bat man t-shirt on met a real life sizzed Batman #brilliant
See the various slideshow, clearly the same privacy rules apply when Grandkids are concerned, sorry!
Want to read more about the Station Inn? Visit the unique motorhome travel blog link by KHWD
CUMBRIA - Tues 280524 Windemere
Definitely not the best day weather wise, we travelled in the 3 cars across to our agreed meet up of Glebe Road car park in Bowness for the combo Windemere tourist boat trip and aquarium experience. Apart from 1 car in the Braithwaite car park and the rest in the other Glebe Road car park, the app to pay wouldn't work, we were all soaked to the skin it turned out to be fun. Keef & Annie , Phoenix and Ned eventually managed to get into the car park on the front of the Lake, wow that was busy and wet. Lunch in the pub was lovely then we like drown rats walked to join the queue for our Windemere experience, I'm painting a rather drab image but overall it was a fun day out for the family, we sat on top of the boat with the wind and rain howling in, all part of the Lake District charm in my humble opinion, Hellinger Boot camp was well under way. Getting off it was a short walk to the Aquarium which everyone loved especially the sea otter and leaf cutter ants. Here is some info on the boat trip.
See the various slideshow, clearly the same privacy rules apply when Grandkids are concerned, sorry!
Want to read more? Visit the unique motorhome travel blog link by KHWD
OR
Read here, Windermere Lake Cruises offers scenic trips on England’s largest lake, departing daily from Bowness. Here’s what you can enjoy:
Scenic Cruises: Sail across Lake Windermere and enjoy the stunning views.
Combined Tickets: Get combined tickets for the cruise and attractions like the Lakes Aquarium.
Yellow Cruise & Lakes Aquarium: Start at Bowness, take a 40-minute journey to Lakeside Pier, and explore the Lakes Aquarium, just a 2-minute walk from the pier.
The Lakes Aquarium offers an immersive experience with a variety of aquatic life. You can spend time exploring the exhibits and then board a later boat back to Bowness.
For more information on schedules and fares, you can visit the official website shown in our above link.
CUMBRIA - Wed 290524 Lowther Castle & Gardens
Drove over to Lowther Castle and grounds , near Penrith, as we had heard it was a great place for kids and we were not disappointed. A lovely place , free car parking, clever yellow flag displays in the initial gardens of now derelict but once hugely magnificent Lowther Castle home of the Lonsdale's. The weather was mostly good as well. Started in the cafe. After a quick stroll through the "history" bit we headed off on a lovely walk through the estate to the woodland play ground. The kids loved it and spent in fairness most of the day there. We went there in the morning returning to the restaurant for lunch, which was wonderful, and then the family minus Granny & Grandpa went back for the afternoon to the play park. Phoenix did a speeded up video of G&G #teehee to make up for our somewhat slow pace. We spent the afternoon instead doing the history section, all amazingly interesting, this family descended from the Vikings and have many colourful characters in their history. The Yellow Earl , 5th Earl Lowther / Lonsdale, probably top the ladder of reprobates. Post our history lesson we retired to the lovely cafe for coffee and cake and dare I say it holiday ice cream.
The family joined us towards the end of the day, the kids gave this place a resounding thumbs up. PS especially liked the girls Tik Tok dance in the cafe #class
Want to read more? Visit the unique motorhome travel blog link by KHWD
See the various slideshow, clearly the same privacy rules apply when Grandkids are concerned, sorry!
The famous Yellow Earl which we learnt about at Lowther Castle fascinated me, so when we got home, having done some research on him I bought the book (second hand of course, the best books #smile) What I suspect nowadays we would call a higher class cad "almost and emperor, not quite a gentleman" banished by Queen Victoria as we suspect for bedding Lily Langtree at the same time as her precious son Bertie, but once I've read the book I will know. Make their millions / billions in coal. Oh plus back in the day 1880s you didn't pay tax on "earnings" of £4k per week
Hugh Lowther, known as the Yellow Earl, was the 5th Earl of Lonsdale from 1882 to 1944. He was a sportsman and explorer who donated the original Lonsdale Belts for boxing. He also founded the Automobile Association (AA), and his preference for the colour yellow is why it features in the AA’s livery, additionally, he was involved in various other sporting endeavours and was known for his lavish lifestyle.
Here are a couple of notable anecdotes about Hugh Lowther, the Yellow Earl, at the age of 25, he unexpectedly inherited the title of Earl of Lonsdale along with a vast fortune, making him one of the richest men in England overnight. He owned extensive lands and even the town of Whitehaven and its coalfields. His favourite colour was yellow, which influenced many aspects of his life. He had yellow carriages, Rolls-Royces, and even his servants’ uniforms were yellow. He also wore a gardenia in his buttonhole, grown in a hothouse on his estate. In 1907, he was involved in a famous wager with John Pierpont Morgan regarding whether a man could travel around the world incognito. These stories highlight his extravagant lifestyle and colourful personality.
CUMBRIA - Thurs 300524 Kendal
Spent the morning having our one last go in the hot tub, had some lunch, did a bit of packing and some clearing up then decided to go into Kendal to use the play park by the River Kent. Kendal has a castle as well. Doug visited an ATM and post that the kids enjoyed some exercise in the play park as did the adults pushing them. Lots of snaps were taken and the weather was good, very sunny initially. We then returned to the cottage to finish (mostly) packing, Keef cooked spag bol, and Uncle Doug and Tatey went for a final walk. A fun time was drawing to a close and the long journey back would start tomorrow , we did all mange to leave before the 10 am deadline and the journey back for all was much less troublesome than on the way up. Grandpa, Charlie, Alfie and Phoenix stopped at the service station just outside Stoke as folks were craving Greggs sausage rolls, alas there was no Greggs so coffee and cake surficed. Keef took Charlie to Greggs in Long Eaton to get 8 sausage rolls when we were back, Yummy!!!
See the various slideshow, clearly the same privacy rules apply when Grandkids are concerned, sorry!
Here's a bit of a write up on Kendal itself. Kendal is a large market town and civil parish situated on the River Kent, just outside the boundary of the Lake District National Park in Cumbria, England. It was historically known as Kirkby in Kendal or Kirkby Kendal. The town is known for its beautiful setting and cultural heritage.
The River Kent is a short but significant river in Westmorland, rising amongst the hills surrounding Kentmere and flowing for about 20 miles into Morecambe Bay. It’s one of England’s fastest-flowing rivers, descending more than 2000 feet from its source to the sea near Levens Hall. The river is culturally important, passing close to historic houses and through Kendal
EAST MIDLANDS, Sun 020624 Conker's , Leicestershire
Conker's is located in Moira. As I'd been to a Yes concert in Brum with my pal Neil the night before the family had stayed overnight at C&L's in Swannington. I headed over to join them after breakfast. We needed 2 cars to ferry people to Conker's. Leanne was with Edie at a football tournament and would join us later. It is a lovely place for kids, one moment of panic when Tate and Alfie were off with Doug looking at something (what Annie and I call our Knossos moment with Doug aged 3 all those years ago!). So much to do there with various areas, lots of climbing stuff, slides etc. etc. and lots of sunshine, who could ask for more. The train ride is fun as well. We had a picnic lunch around the lake, a few nips from assorted geese (grandpa lost it with one #smile ) culminating with both ice creams and the girls going on the equivalent of Go Ape junior version in the forest. Keef even noticed a music amphitheater in the woods with a Simon & Garfunkel tribute act, sadly we cant make the dates but would be interested in future performances, a real plus as local.
Want to read more? Visit the unique motorhome travel blog link by KHWD
OR
Here’s a brief overview of Conkers Discovery Centre, located in Sedgwick, Leicestershire, it offers a delightful day out for families. Here’s what you can expect:
Indoor and Outdoor Exhibits:
Explore a mix of indoor and outdoor exhibits suitable for all ages.
Discover four separate discovery zones within the centre.
Enchanted Forest Play Area:
Let the kids run wild in the Enchanted Forest Play area.
Immerse yourselves in a magical woodland setting.
Treetop Walk and Moving Bridge:
Experience adventure with a treetop walk and a thrilling moving bridge.
Enjoy panoramic views from above the forest canopy.
Journey Through the Skies:
Take a fascinating journey through the skies.
Learn about birds, clouds, and the wonders of the atmosphere.
Tractor Rides and Animal Encounters:
Hop on a tractor ride and explore the beautiful surroundings.
Get up close to friendly farm animals and enjoy animal encounter sessions.
Picnic Areas and Refreshments:
Relax in the outdoor play and picnic area.
Grab refreshments and recharge during your visit.
Children’s Parties and Group Outings:
Conkers is an ideal venue for children’s parties and group celebrations.
Create lasting memories with friends and family.
Whether you’re exploring the treetops, playing in the Enchanted Forest, or enjoying educational exhibits, Conkers Discovery Centre promises a fun-filled adventure for everyone
See the various slideshow, clearly the same privacy rules apply when Grandkids are concerned, sorry!
EAST MIDLANDS, Mon 030624 Eaton Farm Carvery, Nottinghamshire
Monday the weather wasn't great, after a simple breakfast Doug, Phoenix, Charlie and Neddy decided they needed some exercise so decided to walk up to the Eaton Farm pub where we had chosen to go for lunch having the benefits of an all week carvery, ideal for Singaporeans wanting Sunday dinners and its got an enclosed kids play park. They also walked back although we took Charlie and Alfie in the car to save their little legs.
Want to read more about the carvery? Visit the unique motorhome travel blog link by KHWD
See the various slideshow, clearly the same privacy rules apply when Grandkids are concerned, sorry!
EAST MIDLANDS, Wed 050624 BBQ Beers with Neighbours, Derbyshire
Been meaning to do this for years. Had a lovely evening BBQ, beer and wine with our next door neighbours. Meant Dan Dan and Phoenix could chat in their first language. The girls and Alfie played well together and the adults enjoyed the chat, food and drink. Luckily the weather stayed fair so we could cook outside, far too much food and Doug did a great job of taking over the cooking, something he said he enjoyed doing. Tom bought along some lovely real ales (as he always does when we get together) all in all a very nice evening, think the kids were all late to bed that night. Bit of a headache the next morning #teehee
EAST MIDLANDS, Thurs 060624 Bluebells Farm, Dale Abbey, Derbyshire
The weather was quote good today, made a couple of trips to ferry folk out to Bluebells Farm and did I mention it, great homemade ice-cream, #hintsandtips #icecream Bluebells Farm we have been to quite a few times with Edie but never with the Singapore contingent. It is near Locko park in Derbyshire. We had a great day there, lots of animals to feed and pet, including brushing down the goat. Charlie got to stroke the floppy eared rabbits, we enjoyed feeding the baby lambs, slow motion bouncing on the giant tramp, go carting, Grandpa even had a go but was halted by one grand daughter as she blocked his way and he never got restarted. The indoor sand play park was also a hit as well as lunch kindly bought by Doug and Grandpa got the ice creams. Yummy, so classy! We were there all day and then with 2 journeys back bit of a rush to cook a full Sunday roast which I've named the last supper. Basically the last chance we had as a full extended Hellinger family to all meet up, work and school commitments being the issue for the Swannington crew. T'was a nice evening, went to bed exhausted. lol!
Want to read more? Visit the unique motorhome travel blog link by KHWD
Whilst at the Farm we met our next door neighbours pal Ella who owns Bluebells with her hubby #namedrop had a nice conversation about the ludicrously large lorry full of sugar for the ice cream making it's may up the very narrow and long dirt track that acts as an entrance to the far #howsillyisthat
One thing that fascinated me was the fully automated cow milking machine, using clever technology to enter one cow at a time to the milking station, lasers to line up the udders, clean them, then attach them and milk them, whilst keeping the cow busy with a regulation amount of feed / treat that is dispensed into a food tray from above, once it is eaten ... timed to perfection... the cow is let out. How clever is that?
Want to read more about automated cow milking and see some images ? Visit the unique motorhome travel blog link by KHWD
See the various slideshow, clearly the same privacy rules apply when Grandkids are concerned, sorry!
EAST MIDLANDS, Mon 100624 Horse Riding, Nottinghamshire
Doug and Phoenix did some shopping in Long Eaton and Chilwell, we looked after the kids and gave them lunch. Yet another wet day and Keef's sat nav took him right past the equestrian centre even though he has seen it and known about it for the last 30 plus years DOH!
Charlie got to ride Stanley and had a full one hour , 1 on 1 lesson from a nice lady. Not something you can do very easily in Singapore so she loves getting the opportunity here in the UK. Luckily there is an inner covered track and we all sat at the far end, dry and watching or was it cheering? #teehee After we left there was an amazing skirmish on the bridge involving more police than I have ever seen, 2 ladies and 3 blokes, who knows, tried to research but to no avail. Maybe it was Mr. BIG #smile
Want to read more about the equestrian centre? Visit the unique motorhome travel blog link by KHWD
See the various slideshow, clearly the same privacy rules apply when Grandkids are concerned, sorry!
EAST MIDLANDS, Tues 110624 Wacky Warehouse and Carvery 2
Weather not great and we had planned on the doing our traditional Strawberry picking at Wymeswold farm but as it was pouring changed our minds, decided on some indoor play activity. Chatted with Craig for ideas but in the end decided upon the Wacky Warehouse at the Plank and Leggitt up by Sawley marine, a place we had looked in upon once when we had Edie for a sleep over. A good choice, the grandkids loved it and could run off some energy before the carvery round 2 back at Eaton Farm. Also adults could have a nice coffee.
Want to read more about the wacky warehouse? Visit the unique motorhome travel blog link by KHWD
we had been to the Eaton Farm carvery the previous week a 30% off voucher suddenly appeared in my inbox, who am I to refuse a "Gift Horse" so I booked us all in for today, it seemed somewhat more crowded than the previous week but we got the prime position oval window table, much sought after let me tell you #luxury
Want to read more about the carvery? Visit the unique motorhome travel blog link by KHWD
See the various slideshow, clearly the same privacy rules apply when Grandkids are concerned, sorry!
LONDON, Wed 120624 - Sat 150624 London and Goodbye, sadly
Up early to get them ready for their train journey from Long Eaton station, luckily the road closure had ended and we got there in time. They were staying at a hotel near Hyde park for 3 days and did lots of London experiences, especially seeing Big Ben without scaffolding this time. Very kind of them to go by train, saved a somewhat aging Grandpa the drive to Heathrow. After some lovely sight seeing and variable weather they used the tube to get over to Heathrow, many bags in toe as well as children, ready for the long trip back to Changi and Singapore via Istanbul. Once home they encountered the horrid oil spill off East Cast park, although it was a day off for the Muslim celebrations Eid al-Adha which in theory enabled an extra day to get over jet lag, that for most was taken up helping with the massive clean up operation.
Want to read more about this disaster? Poor sea otters! Visit the unique motorhome travel blog link by KHWD With Charlie's prolific reading of Harry Potter whilst here they had to visit platform 9 and three quarters at King's cross, after all Long Eaton ends at St Pancras right next door.
Want to read more about this experience? Visit the unique motorhome travel blog link by KHWD Learn more, see the slideshow, clearly the same privacy rules apply when Grandkids are concerned, sorry!
THE END
"missing you already" and thanks for a great time, Singaporean Hellinger's! Love G&G xxx
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