After 18 months in the Philippines I was dying to get back to the UK to see family and friends for Christmas. I even missed the cold weather somewhat, although I am ready to escape the cold and rain again now after just 3 weeks here. Manchester was great leading up to Christmas with the special markets and other sights we showed my Filipina girlfriend. She was actually complaining it wasn't cold enough which I found amusing. We also checked out Chester via train, which was a pleasant day and a good way to see the countryside. Also we visited Castleton, see picture, which was very nice for a walk and pub lunch. Then we stayed in a lovely cottage in Northumberland to experience more of the countryside. I'd never really given Northumberland much thought before,
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