Blogs from Lake Windermere, Cumbria, England, United Kingdom, Europe

When I got off the train at Kendal, coming from Edinburgh, the station was closed and so I pushed the button on an information box and this guy told me where the nearest hotel is. Went there and the receptionist was very helpful trying to get me to the hostel or a cheaper hotel but nothing was available so I stayed at that place - nice bed and breakfast and had a wonderful full breakfast the next morning. Went hiking around the Lake District for a day - well only half a day until I was pooped. I was by Lake Windermere which is 10 miles long and one mile wide and has lots of trails around it. I loved this area cuz it's just a bunch of little towns. Walked through two towns and then ... read more

Yeah! Our prayers have been answered. The sun is really out! Our lovely day begins with a traditional English breakfast again. This time with black pudding! Mmm.. acquired taste, but glad I got to try it. Took Des' advice to drive to Derwent Water and then loop back to Windermere. Explore some waterfall and many windy road. A real test to my manual driving skills. At one point, I almost roll back to the horror of my fellow travellers. But phew, close shave! Stopped by Grasmere on more time, to grab the traditional ginger bread as souvenirs. Wow, so crowded... Have to queue to get in and when it's your turn, we didn't have much time to ponder what we wanna buy. Dun even know if it's nice :p Rush rush rush... we finally made it ... read more

The Start of the Trip North Wednesday 7th November Today was a catch up day, Judy doing some washing and dusting and Rags raking up leaves and pottering in the greenhouse. Moe came today so we had a great natter with her too! She has agreed to be our taxi driver to Stansted for our flights to and from the Canaries and when we fly to Prague. We are packed and ready to go! Thursday 8th November We had our first taste of the cold weather today. When we awoke it looked overcast but we readied ourselves for “The North Trip” and left just before 8am. Our first stop was Sherwood Forest of Robin Hood fame. We spent some time at the Visitors' Centre after having our cup of coffee and cake that we'd brought from ... read more

Sat here as it's raining outside with my leg up after my knee operation. I've had to delay my flight to make sure my knee heals ok and there's no infection. All being well I'll be flying out to Vanvouver the middle of August. I'll have time to travel around, maybe work a little, before starting my snowboard instructors quali on 1st December... can't wait now... I can't believe how quickly it's come around. ... read more

We have just arrived home feeling extremely relaxed after our week in the lakes. We were so lucky with the weather, the cottage, the food etc. etc. We spent the week in true Hayward Holiday fashion (still can't quite get used to my new name!) in our truly sexy walking gear, taking in the landscapes and sites of historical and natural interest (and making many u-turns both on foot and in the car!) I have enjoyed my break from the Michelin Bride diet and enjoyed much cheese, crisps and chocolate - do all tasty things begin with C? Highlights included a wet and windy drive along the Hardknott Pass (the steepest road in England), a trip to the stunning Wast Water and Ennerdale Water and a walk to the Stanley Force Waterfall in Eskdale. Oh and ... read more