Smithsabroad in Europe 2022 (at last)

Four days and a wakey!!

It has only been a three-year wait but the day is finally looming.

Yep!!   This is who is going to pamper us for fifteen days as we glide down the Rhine from Basel to Amsterdam with a little cruise up the Moselle to Luxembourg stopping along the way to take in the local village life and sample delicious food and beverages along the way.

It will be Autumn so the colours will be simply amazing as we glide past stunning countryside, amazing villages, and beautiful castles.

We will be visiting places we have visited before and am so looking forward to returning.  Like going back home due to the familiarity.  Best of all are the new places to visit and explore.  

You would think that, with three years to prepare, we would just about be packed.  But, NO!!  Packing will probably start on Thursday so I had best be off to start thinking about what I have to pack.  Wet?  Cold?  Warm?  So much to think about but the head doeas not spin simply because we are about to step into 5 star luxury which is so much better than 3 star which generally I am used to.  Of course there is also the Cotswalds to look forward to to cap off the whole adventure.

The next time I am on here will either be from the luxury of our Scenic Space-ship or earlier from our hotel in Zurich.  The hotel in Zurich has the coolest name "Zurich Swiss Chocolate by Fassbind" which conjures up all mental images but, sadly, on research there is no chocolate in sight.

Anyway, must go and get lost in thoughts of that special wakey moment when we will be heading off to the airport and up! up! and away with Singapore not TAA.

Chat later.

A look around the Cotswolds - Part 2

 Bourton on the Water

    

  Lower Slaughter

   

     This trip into the heart of the Cotswolds is best during summer extended hours of sunlight.  In winter you may find you will not be able to fit in Bourton on the Water and, if you have time, visit it another day for the village is so pretty and well worth the visit.

     This is one day trip that is filled with chocolate box gorgeous villages and, as with the previous post, will incorporate breakfast, morning tea and lunch so pack what goodies you want for breakfast, load up the car and head on out to enjoy the beauty of this wonderful island.

     Head once more along the A40 to Burford.  This is not just to take in that gorgeous view looking down from the top of the hill, it is so you have the most wonderful views as you drive along a ridge top on the other side of Burford.

     After using all your will power not to stop and look around, drive through Burford, across the stone bridge at the bottom of the hill and turn left into the A424.  Once on this road do not hurry for the views are stunning both sides of the road as you look across the landscape.  Do not just see the garden, stop also and smell the roses.  In other words stop where possible and get out and have a wonderful time taking in the beauty before you.

     Continue along the A424 until you come to the left turn to Little Rissington.  Turn left into this road and continue along until you come to a right turn with the sign to Little Rissington and Bourton on the Water.  Take this right turn and continue all the way to Bourton on the Water turning into the High Street just after the Model Village on your right.

     You should easily find a car park for you have arrived here early enough for breakfast.  Before looking around grab your blanket and your breakfast goodies and head over to the park beside the River Windrush, set yourself up and enjoy breakfast in some of the most beautiful surrounds you could plonk yourselves down in.

     Having finished breakfast wander around and take in the beauty of the buildings, bridges and the river itself as it meanders through the village.  By now the shops should be opening so wander over and have a good look around at the huge range of things you could open your wallets to.  There is also a model village of Boughton on the Water which you passed on your way in.  Have a look at it for it is amazing to see such detail and also, when there, look for the model village in the model village

     Finished looking around?  Leave the way you came except turn left at the end of the High Street, that is the one you have just been in.  This will take you out to the A429 where you need to turn right.   Travel for a short distance along this road until you see a sign to the Slaughters.  Turn left just after that and head to Lower Slaughter and prepare your self for a wander through a gorgeous little village and morning tea in beautiful surroundings.

     As you come into Lower Slaughter find the first available car park and stop.  Hopefully it will be just beside the River Eye.  Leaving your car wander down to the stone bridge, taking in of course beautiful views of the The Parish Church of Saint Mary, Lower Slaughter Manor and across the river, Washbourne Court.  Crossing the bridge take the path on the right hand side of the river which will afford you good views of the buildings in the village.  In winter hope for snow for the sight is stunning.  Making your way along the path to the Old Mill for a bit of a look around.  Everyone in your party needs to stand on the stone bridge for a photograph.  Once you see the the view you will know why.  After looking around make your way back to Washbourne Court for morning tea.  Simply go in through the entrance to the restaurant on your right.

     Next to visit is Snowshill, sounds gorgeous does it not, and yes, it is.  The easiest way to go is to head back the way you came to the A429 turning left toward Stow on the Wold.  Stow is another town that is worthy of a visit although this time we drive right by.

Continue through until you come to a left turn into the A424.  Continue alontg the A424 until you come to a sign to Snowshill,  Take the left turn although, if you do miss it do not worry for there is another further along what will now be the A44.  Anyway, the whole idea is to get to Snowshill and both ways afford wonderful drives through gorgeous countryside.  At the right timwe of year you will see the brilliant display as you pass the Lavender Farm which is worthy of a visit.

     You have arrived so either go straight ahead down through the village turning left at the bottom of the road or turn right and work your way down that way.  If you turn right be aware that there is a very sharp left turn to head into the village.  Park in the pub carpark and enjoy a delicious meal at the Snowshill Arms.  This is a chocolate box village so have a wander around and enjoy the beauty.

     Next head on to Broadway.  Simply turn left out of the pub car park and stay on the road and it will take you right to Broadway.  By the time you arrive there it would probably be very busy for it attracts many tourists.  If no car parks are available go though the town to the left turn into Leamington Road.  Travel along this road for a bit and there will be a left turn which takes you into a pay and display car park.

     Broadway is stunning with beautiful period houses and honey coloured Cotswold stone cottages and the long wide High Street lined with Chestnut trees.  There is so much to see here so take your time exploring the shops and stop and enjoy afternoon tea.  There are art galleries, gift and clothes shops, three inns and various cafe and restaurants.  Just left out of Leamington Road is a gorgeous Christmas Shop filled with a huge assortment of Christmas decorations and centre pieces.  You will have no trouble using up all your parking time here so be careful.

     Having explored Broadway it is time to head back to Oxford.  From the car park turn right and head toward the A44 turning right into it at the roundabout.  Continue along the A44 until you come to a signposted right turn to Broadway Tower.  Do not take the turn before it to the quarry.  Go through the stone gateway and continue along the road to the Tower.  This is a narrow road so be careful and be prepared to stop and even reverse to a passing point.

     Parking at the Tower can be either beside the road, if you are lucky, or take advantage of the free parking through the gates at the turn in the road.  Leave you car and wander up to the Tower taking in the spectacular views across the counties.  Explore the tower before returning to your car.  Enjoy afternoon tea at the cafe before returning to Oxford.

    The quickest way back to Oxford from here is to return to the A44 the way you came, turning right and continue along into the A424 to Stowe.  Turn right into the A429 following this to the right turn into the A40 back to Oxford.  In Oxford head to the Red Lion at Wolvercote for a delicious dinner and refreshing ale. 

Snowshill

Broadway

Broadway Tower

View along the way

A look around the Cotswolds - part 1

  Minster Lovell Hall:

   











Burford:

    




     There are many outstandingly beautiful places to visit in Britain and many quaint and gorgeous villages to explore.  It would be remiss of me to even entertain the thought that the places I enjoyed are the be all and end all of where to go and what to see.  I can only convey to you the beauty of what I have seen and hope it will inspire you to seek these places out and many of the others found throughout this beautiful island.

     From the start I can only ask that you be thoughtful in your driving:  

     Many of the country roads are narrow and you may need to back up to allow the passage of other vehicles.  How is it decided as to who should reverse?  Common sense rules.  You know how close you are to a passing area if you are driving thoughtfully or maybe you are able to pull over safely.  Do not forget to give a courteous wave.

     The roads are shared with horse riders ....... slow down to a crawl when passing.  Do not forget to wave.

     Most of all, enjoy the experience for there is no other country in the world where the drivers are more courteous.

     On this trip we will breakfast in Minster Lovell,  morning tea at Burford and a late lunch at The Bell Inn in Langford.

     Before setting out pack a flask of hot water for a cup of tea or brew a coffee and fill the flask.  Unless of course you enjoy the non flavour of powdered instant.  Pack also something to eat for breakfast.  Whatever you fancy although maybe Croissants and jam to spread would be a delicious choice.  Also a blanket to spread on the ground on which to sit and enjoy the location.

     Firstly to Minster Lovell where breakfast will be the perfect meal to enjoy beside the River Windrush.  From Oxford take the A40 toward Witney.   Continue past Witney and begin to enjoy the beautiful views across the Cotswalds.  There are rolling hills, small areas of woodlands, drystone walls and gorgeous stone villages dotting the countryside. This truly is an area of great beauty.

      Continue along the A40 until you come to a roundabout showing Minster Lovell B4047 to the right.  Take the B4047 and continue along making sure you pass the White Hart Pub on the right, a beautiful old white building.  Further along the road turn left at the well signposted turn and continue toward Minster Lovell.  Turn right across the stone bridge passing playing fields on your right.  Turn right at the next intersection and enjoy the view of beautiful houses and thatched stone cottages as you slowly pass through the village.  Continue on through the village and up the hill to the next intersection where you will turn right at the sign which points to 'The Church'.  Park your car in one of the marked bays at this point.  Be early to get a park.  From there it is a short, pleasant walk down the hill to the church and Minster Lovell Hall. 

     The entrance to Minster Lovell Hall is through the grounds of St. Kenelm's Church.  A pretty little church surrounded by a grave yard with headstones leaning a precarious angles.  Just walking through here is gorgeous and worthy of taking some delightful photographs.  Fro the river side of the building there are some interesting views of the Minster Lovell Hall to be seen through the headstones.

     The ruins of Minster Lovell Hall, a 15th century manor house is now in ruins with much of the stone removed by locals.  The grounds are magnificently kept and there is a dovecote in the manor farm nearby.  The River Windrush flows peacefully by at the bottom of the grounds.  It is beautiful and peaceful and a perfect place to spread out the blanket and enjoy breakfast before moving on to the not so peaceful Burford.

    After breakfast and a wander around the ruins head back to your car and make your way in the reverse direction back to the A40.  Be careful to turn right after crossing the stone bridge.

     At the big roundabout turn right toward Burford.  Continue on to the Burford Roundabout at which a right turn will take you to the top of the hill looking down to this gorgeous, quaint and very busy town.  It is a truly beautiful view so do not drive too quickly so you capture it in your memory for all time.  If you are lucky you may find a car park space on your way down through the town.  If not, turn right when you are almost through the town, and you will find parking at the end of the lane.  There is a sign on the left pointing to the lane although be guided by the Cotswold Arms pub on the left.  It is the next turn right just past the pub.  It is a narrow lane so be careful as you continue on to where the lane turns sharply to the right and a lane continues on straight ahead.  There is a low down signage which points to the parking on the corner yet keep in mind to simply continue on the 'straight and narrow' across the bridge over the River Windrush. find a car park and pay and display.  If you have any left over crusts from breakfast you can always feed the ducks down by the River before setting off to explore.

     This is a beautiful town to explore with so many gorgeous shops filled with all manner of wares to tempt those wanting to purchase mementos, clothing, or any other item which will take your fancy.  One shop to visit is the old sweet shop filled with sweets from yesteryear.  If you leave without a purchase you must be unwell.  The fudge is to die for.  Any one of the delightful cafe is a great place to enjoy morning tea.  The prices differ so simply check out the menu and the decor to see which you would like to be pampered in.  Because the is so much to see and do in Burford keep an eye on the time so as to not suffer the wrath of the parking inspector.

     Having enjoyed your wander around Burford it is now back to the A40 turning right at the roundabout the left not long after into the B4425 down to Bibury.

     On the River Coln beside which you hopefully will find a car park, Bibury is, as the artist John Morris described it, the most beautiful village in England and wanted to transport it back to America.   The village is truly beautiful with its honey-coloured stone cottages with steeply pitched roofs.  Also in Bibury is Arlington Row which comprises a picturesque row of cottages built in 1380 and converted in the seventeenth century to a row of weaver's cottages for the local Arlington Mill.

     Back in the car continue down the B4425 to Cirencester with its beautiful St. John the Baptist parish church.  This is a market town and delightful to wander around and explore.

     From Cirencester travel along the A417 to Lechlade on Thames.  This is the highest town on which narrow boats can travel up the River Thames.  It also boast the highest lock and it is from here you can walk to London along the Thames Path.  I dare say you would need more than a cut lunch to do that walk.

     After exploring Lechlade on Thames take the A361 turning right at the end of the long drystone wall to Little Farrington. Continue on through Little Farrington turning left toward Langford just through the village.  There is a small sign pointing to Langford at the intersection.   At Langford visit the Bell Inn on Station Street for a delicious lunch in traditional English pub setting.  Here is their website for you to investigate.  http://bellatlangford.co.uk/

     After lunch it is back to Oxford.  Two ways to return are back to the A361 to the A40 then back to Oxford the way you came or back down to Lechlade on Thames with a left turn onto the A417 down to Farington then onto the A420 to Oxford to complete the round trip.

     Remember, this is just a brief look at the delightful places I have been.  Choose any or all to visit mixed of course with other places you wish to see or have heard about.  The main thing is, enjoy each place you visit and above all .... do not rush.  The idea is quality not quantity.  I had four years to see what I saw.


Bibury:

Cirencester:

Lechlade on Thames:

Visiting Warwick and surrounds - part 3

 

     Can a days outing get any better?  Morning tea beside the Oxford Canal at Banbury then lunch at a medieval castle, how cool!  Well yes it can for it is time to press on to Foxton to have a look at the stair-case locks.

     To give you an idea of what a route planner from Michelin looks like click on the link http://www.viamichelin.com/web/Routes  and type in (from) Warwick United Kingdon and (to) Foxton United Kingdom.  This is the direction to take and my advice is to print out the sheets and have them in order of direction to take.  They, as you will see, are very comprehensive and easy to follow.  The signs on the roads and roundabouts are also easy.

     Having arrived at Foxton follow the signage to the parking area at the top of the locks. There is a short walk alongside the Canal to the top of the staircase which is complimented by the beautiful view afforded from the path.

     This is the largest flight of staircase locks on the English canal system with two staircases of five locks.  Staircase locks are used to allow boats to climb a steep incline and it takes about an hour for a boat to navigate the entire staircase.

     Take time to watch the operation of the locks as the boats make their way up or down.   During the busy season it can be quite some time before a boat is clear of the locks and on its way to its next destination.

     At the bottom of the lock system is a pub, cafe and shop.  It is a long drive back to Oxford so I may suggest you visit the cafe for afternoon tea.  Spend time exploring before heading back.

     To return to Oxford take the B6047 down tthen turn right into the A4304.   Follow the A4304 to the M1 turning left toward London.

     Turn off the M1 at Junction 15a taking the A43 down to the M40.  The M40 is exited at Junction 9 which will take you to A34.  Take this toward Oxford and exit onto the A44 which will take you straight into Oxford where you can drop into the Eagle and Child and have a refreshing ale and a delicious dinner.

Visiting Warwick and surrounds part 2

 

     I do apologise for what may seem confusion regarding 'A', 'B' and 'other' roads yet, unless you have a guide, it is necessary to understand where to turn etc.  My suggestion is to be armed with either of the following well before you even decide to visit England.

a.  Purchase a Motorist's Atlas and study it in regards to where you would like to visit. There are so many interesting places once you begin to look.  The Atlas I used many, many times is 'Philip's Motorist's Atlas 2004 Britain'
b.  Use the internet to study a route planner such as Michelin and print out the route plan. Very, very useful.

    Motoring in England is a very pleasant and mainly stress free experience.  Most drivers are extremely courteous and will let you join the flow of traffic when entering from side streets etc.  Be sure to thank them with a wave.   After a while you will find yourself doing just the same thing.  Also, be aware that country lanes and lesser roads are shared by horse and rider so slow down and simply enjoy the experience of not being rushed.  It is quite calming and well enjoyable.

     Having arrived in Warwick it is time to park the car in the ample car park, pop your pay and display ticket on the dash and go explore the Castle.  

     Warwick Castle is a wonderful example of a medieval castle and was completed in the 14th century.  It is now owned by the Tassauds therefore lifelike displays play a vital part of one section of the castle.  Cross the draw-bridge and enter a world of wonder as you travel back in time.  The castle is full of turrets, great halls, dungeons, amazing displays and, at the right time of day, live shows.

     Climb the ancient stone stairs spiralling up one of the main turrets and you will have an amazing view of Warwick and surrounding countryside as well as a commanding view over the grounds of the castle.  Imaging you are one of the soldiers defending the castle from invaders and get an idea of what it must have been like back in the 14th century as you did battle with your long bows and other weapons at hand.

     Cross over the draw-bridge and wind your way back down the stone staircase making your way down to the display of the instruments of torture.  Have a go at lifting a sword and be surprised at the weight.   One thing though would be not to imagine what it would be like to be placed in one of the cages and lifted up on high to be left to die a terrible death.

    Enter into the great hall and make your way through the display rooms which are simply fascinating and so realistic and lifelike.  I had to, on occasions, stop and stare to see that the people in the displays were not real.  Truly amazing.

     Be sure to take in a live performance in the courtyard.  It could be jousting, knights fighting or something as simple as an amazing fire-eating display.  There is always something to see.

     Explore The Mound and take in the views.

     Finally, have some lunch and a coffee at the Coach House Family Restaurant on your way out.  There are other eating places so really the choice is yours.

     The main thing is to enjoy the complete experience of visiting this amazing castle.  This is a 'blokes' castle yet anyone can and, I am sure, will have a wonderful time exploring.

     Part 3 will be the canal staircase.

Visiting Warwick and surrounds part 1

 

  

Having seen all you want to in Oxford it is time to have a look around the area by way of day trips.

    Castles are always fascinating places to visit and Warwick Castle is certainly right up there.  From Oxford it is easy to get to by way of the M40 although that is probably the most boring way to go unless Warwick Castle is all you wish to see.  Personally, I prefer to travel on 'A', 'B' and the minor roads which all seem to immerse me in the countryside and allow me to pass through quaint villages and hamlets.

    The following day trip is best tackled in summer when the days are longer.  During winter modifications would be required for eight hours would be the best you could possibly achieve in daylight hours.

    On this trip we will be visiting Warwick Castle then further up to Foxton Locks which is the largest flight of staircase locks on the English canals system.  Along the way we will pass through some gorgeous countryside and visit some interesting villages as well as a brief stopover in Banbury for a look around and have a delicious morning tea.

    Departing Oxford head to Kidlington by taking the A4165 (Banbury Road) through Summertown to connect up with the A4260 (Banbury Road) which takes you through Kidlington heading toward Banbury.  A quick visit to Deddington along the way where you will find the Market Place in the centre of town as well as some quaint pubs such as the Deddington Arms Hotel.

    After a look around pop back on to the A4260 toward Banbury.  As soon as you reach Banbury to road will become 'B', 'A' and whatever.  Disregard this and continue on past Banbury Cross and turn right at Castle Street and make your way to the Castle Quay Shopping Centre where you will be able park undercover for a fee.  Park your car and head out to explore Banbury taking in Banbury Cross and the shops in the High Street as well as in the many streets and lanes.

    After looking around the shops head back to Castle Quay and enjoy the sights of the narrow boats moored alongside the Shopping Centre.  If you are fortunate you may even see the lock in operation as one of the boats heads either up or down the canal.  It is here also that you are able to enjoy a delicious pastry and a refreshing cup of tea or coffee. 

    Leaving Castle Quay head back along Castle Street and turn right at the next major intersection into the A361 (Southam Road).  From this point it can be as simple as staying on the A361 which becomes the A423 turning left at Southam onto the A425 to Royal Leamington Spa then into Warwick. Time permitting take the A422 at the round about then onto Warwick Road (A422/B4100).  This is a beautiful drive passing through gorgeous villages and some magnificent countryside.  Maybe even a visit to Aston Martin just off Kingsway.  Turn right onto the B4087 (Oakley Wood Road) which will take you to Warwick.

    Visiting Warwick Part 2 will take you on a tour of the Castle.

     

A Wander around Oxford Part 3

  Oxford is not just the University although it does play a huge part in the reason people visit Oxford in huge numbers.  There is so much more to see and some really quaint pubs in which you may appease your appetite with some really delicious food.

    Some streets are a must to see.  They are:
a.  The High Street.   Described as "one of the world's greatest streets" because of the gentle curve lined by some of the most beautiful buildings.  Looking toward Carfax there are the Examination Schools on the left, University College also on the left and then on the right are Queen's College,All Souls and Brasenose Colleges.  Worth visiting is St. Mary's Church with a climb to the top of the tower a must to appreciate the views of the top of Oxford.  Many beautiful buildings line the High Street the last being Carfax Tower, the last remains of the 12th century St Martin's Church.  Climb to the top for a beautiful view down The High.
b.   Cornmarket Street.  Closed to traffic and very busy.  There are a few amazing buildings in this street the most interesting being the tower of St Michael of Northgate.  It is ther oldest building in Oxford and dates back to about AD 1000 - 1050.  Worth seeing also is the timber-framed building on the corner of Ship Street.  It is the surviving half of a building which was completed in 1386.

c.   Broad Street.     A beautiful wide street  which is a must to explore.  There is The Oxford Story, book shops, gift shops, Balliol and Trinity Colleges and, just after Trinity, The White Horse which is possibly one of the most delightful pubs to enter and have a pint in.

     Other streets worthy of a wander and explore are Holleywell, Turl and Merton Streets.  Merton Street is a beautiful untouched cobblestone street so be careful when walking along the street.

     Rose Lane off of the High Street, right beside The Botanic Garden is a must.  It leads down to Dead Man's Walk which runs behind Merton and Corpus Christi Colleges, onto Broad Walk to The back of Christ Church then down to the River Isis, or River Thames anywhere else other than Oxford.

      Pop over to the other side of Magdalen Bridge for a great photograph looking back toward Magdalen College.  Once taken head back then walk down between the bridge and Magdalen College.  There is a great little gift shop there and it is here also where you are able to hire a Punt.  Hop on board and punt your way upstream to the The Victoria pub with its beer garden.

     Oxford Castle has been brought back to life and is no longer used for a prison as seen in the T.V. series, Porridge.  It is beautifully restored and, dare I say, changed in some areas but well worth the time to explore.

     There are many hidden gems in Oxford to keep you exploring for hours or even days depending on what you like to look at.  All this looking of course makes you thirsty and hungry and my favourite place to satisfy both is the Eagle and Child in St Giles.  The Inklings, an Oxford writer's group met at least one day a week in the pub.  The group included C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. 

     A good meal can also be picked up in the Covered Markets which has quite a selection of food as well as  apparel and gifts.

     There is something for everyone in Oxford so my advice is go have a long wander around and take in the delights it has to offer.  Down at the curve in Beaumont Street is the tourist information.  Best advice........... visit it first.