Clear day and 12 intrepid souls (none American) set out for an adventure rafting (rubber duckie) 16km down the river. The bus took us out and along the way we saw 2 elk beside the road just grazing.
Fitted with yellow plastic ponchos and then life jackets, we tentatively climb aboard before being pushed off with our guide cum captain of the raft.
The river seems to be running fast and our guide advised that during the winter the water level drops considerably and then the top few feet are frozen with metres of snow then on top of that.
We face our first set of rapids (well that is what they are called) and with much laughter and a little splashing to some the journey continues in the same way as we admire the scenery, seek wildlife (and see some deer) and lots of campers along the river as this is a long weekend for Canada day on Monday.
We experience going into a whirlpool and getting through some more intrepid rapids. The 16km is done too soon and there is the bus and our tour guide waiting for us on the bank. We had crossed under a bridge and had our photo taken so that might be a souvenier photo we might get. It is a popular thing this taking your photo as you enter an attraction and then having it on offer as you leave. Tower Bridge in London, CN Tower in Toronto, boat trip at Niagara as well as the walk behind the falls. There is only so much room in these two suitcases and we still have another bus tour to do where our luggage is restricted.
Sunday, June 30, 2013
Rafting down the Athabasca River
Photos
The Capitol building in Washington DC, The Roman bath house at Chesters Fort along Hadrians Wall nearly 2000 years old, Snow on the Cairngorm mountains near Inverness in Scotland
Some more photos thanks to advice from our rafting guide!
This is the trophy for the upcoming Ashes tour from the Waterford Crystal factory in Ireland
cnt
and melting snow and in winter the top 6 ft freezes and is then covered by snow. This area is within the Jasper National Park and the lake is surrounded by mountains with snow on top at this moment. On our way up to the lake we saw elk and deer and then to top it off there was a black bear enjoying afternoon tea near the side of the road. Wow what a camera shot. Then we had a cruise on the lake, 160ft deep mostly with a part that is over 300ft deep. Dinner was in the restaurant at the lake so then on the trip back down the mountain what could top it off better than big horn sheep and then........a pair of moose with huge antlers. Talk about a day, it could not have been better.
A good nights sleep in a bed that didn't move and now we are ready for our ride down the river by raft this morning. We will then be back to the hotel and change into dry clothes before doing the laundry. Yep some things still have to be done.
A good nights sleep in a bed that didn't move and now we are ready for our ride down the river by raft this morning. We will then be back to the hotel and change into dry clothes before doing the laundry. Yep some things still have to be done.
to JASPER
Well what can I say, the last three nights and two days have been amazing.
Yes our cabin was small, I had the top bunk (my choice) and plenty of food a and great scenery.
We had had dinner at the CN Tower before going to the station and at 556ft with a relvoving restaurant and a clear evening who could complain. The view was magic and w
I even stood on the glass floor to look down. Lawrie not so comfortable with heights even put one foot on and then looked down so bravo to him.
Just like every good partnership we are sharing the cold as well. Lawrie seems to be having a tougher time chasing the cough but at least it isn't as bad as it was. Mine has gone straight to my chest so I certainly try not to cough too much cause it hurts! Not to worry we are really fine just a little miserable at times.
However we did enjoy our train ride and during our stop for a crew change in Winnipeg we went for a bus tour around the city. We were back just in time to board the train and continue with the journey. The dome cars are great for scenery watching but oh so cold with the air conditioning. We would go up there for only a short time and then come back down to warm up. Of course that doesn't help the coughs at all.
We arrived in Jasper early afternoon yesterday and then went for a drive up to Maligne Lake which is 5200ft above sea level. The water in the lake is the most beautiful blue so the postcards have not been retouched. The lake is fed by glaciers
Yes our cabin was small, I had the top bunk (my choice) and plenty of food a and great scenery.
We had had dinner at the CN Tower before going to the station and at 556ft with a relvoving restaurant and a clear evening who could complain. The view was magic and w
I even stood on the glass floor to look down. Lawrie not so comfortable with heights even put one foot on and then looked down so bravo to him.
Just like every good partnership we are sharing the cold as well. Lawrie seems to be having a tougher time chasing the cough but at least it isn't as bad as it was. Mine has gone straight to my chest so I certainly try not to cough too much cause it hurts! Not to worry we are really fine just a little miserable at times.
However we did enjoy our train ride and during our stop for a crew change in Winnipeg we went for a bus tour around the city. We were back just in time to board the train and continue with the journey. The dome cars are great for scenery watching but oh so cold with the air conditioning. We would go up there for only a short time and then come back down to warm up. Of course that doesn't help the coughs at all.
We arrived in Jasper early afternoon yesterday and then went for a drive up to Maligne Lake which is 5200ft above sea level. The water in the lake is the most beautiful blue so the postcards have not been retouched. The lake is fed by glaciers
Wednesday, June 26, 2013
notice of internet interruptions
well we are here at Toronto train station waiting to board our train to start the journey across Canada.
We are not sure when we will have wifi along the trip as we will be 'remote' for a while.
Our train journey from Washington yesterday went well and we were only delayed an hourbecause of heat on the rails and the speed had to lowered to 59mph instead of 79mph.
The train seats were comfortable and we had lots of room. It will be interesting to see what our cabin on the train will be like for the next 3 days but we are looking forward to it all.
This tour group is more multinational than the last but there are some Aussies and also NZ.
Had some rain today for our trip to Niagara however riding on 'the maid of the mist' was going to make us wet anyway but we did avoid getting wet so that was good. Lawrie has been fighting a cold with a cough giving him a hard time but finally he is coming good but we certainly didn't want him getting wet if we could help it. All aboard now for the trip we have really been looking forward to.
We are not sure when we will have wifi along the trip as we will be 'remote' for a while.
Our train journey from Washington yesterday went well and we were only delayed an hourbecause of heat on the rails and the speed had to lowered to 59mph instead of 79mph.
The train seats were comfortable and we had lots of room. It will be interesting to see what our cabin on the train will be like for the next 3 days but we are looking forward to it all.
This tour group is more multinational than the last but there are some Aussies and also NZ.
Had some rain today for our trip to Niagara however riding on 'the maid of the mist' was going to make us wet anyway but we did avoid getting wet so that was good. Lawrie has been fighting a cold with a cough giving him a hard time but finally he is coming good but we certainly didn't want him getting wet if we could help it. All aboard now for the trip we have really been looking forward to.
Monday, June 24, 2013
WASHINGTON
We had our visit to Lancaster the heart of Amish country and visited an Amish farm and then the Kettle Market where they sell a lot of their produce.
It was a lovely sunny day and became quite hot by midday. We enjoyed a great creamy ice cream that was delicious and they said came from their Jersey cows on the farm. There was also a canning and preserves shop where you could watch the women cooking and bottling then preserving the relishes and sauces they make and sell. They also make over 20 different jams that along wth all the relishes and sauces etc are available for tasting.
Needless to say I could not resist visiting the quilt shop and admiring the beautiful work done by local craftspeople. Only $75 for postage they assured me!!
There was also a yarn shop and of course I could not resist a coloured wool top to take home to spin.
In the evening we went for dinner at Georgetown the old harbour area of Washington and then after dinner did a night drive around the capitol. The day had become quite warm and after arriving in Washington it was very warm but not unpleasant. We saw a deer out of our hotel window in the park where Bill Clinton used to jog and then go for breakfast at Maccas!
Next morning we hare doing a tour and would you believe when we arrived at Arlington Cemetery the rain was coming down and very few of us had bought raincoats so we became rather damp but at least it wasnt cold.
At the next stop for t
It was a lovely sunny day and became quite hot by midday. We enjoyed a great creamy ice cream that was delicious and they said came from their Jersey cows on the farm. There was also a canning and preserves shop where you could watch the women cooking and bottling then preserving the relishes and sauces they make and sell. They also make over 20 different jams that along wth all the relishes and sauces etc are available for tasting.
Needless to say I could not resist visiting the quilt shop and admiring the beautiful work done by local craftspeople. Only $75 for postage they assured me!!
There was also a yarn shop and of course I could not resist a coloured wool top to take home to spin.
In the evening we went for dinner at Georgetown the old harbour area of Washington and then after dinner did a night drive around the capitol. The day had become quite warm and after arriving in Washington it was very warm but not unpleasant. We saw a deer out of our hotel window in the park where Bill Clinton used to jog and then go for breakfast at Maccas!
Next morning we hare doing a tour and would you believe when we arrived at Arlington Cemetery the rain was coming down and very few of us had bought raincoats so we became rather damp but at least it wasnt cold.
At the next stop for t
Saturday, June 22, 2013
GETTYSBURG
On July 1 1863 the Confederate and Union armies met at Gettysburg by chance. What ensued determined theUSA as we know it today. On July 3 General Lee advanced 12000 Confederate troups in an attack known as 'Picketts Charge'. The attack failed and cost Lee over 5000 soldiers in one hour. The battle of Gettysburg was over. This battle sawmore men killed than any other battle before or since on American soil, 23000 from the Union army and 28000 from the Confederates in just three days.
Each state has erected a monument to their fallen sons and there are various other monuments also. The whole area is a national monument and there are still some of the original buildings in the town where every building at the time became a hospital or shelter for the wounded. I guess Gettysburg is to the Americans like Gallipoli is to Australia but on their own shore.
Today we leave York and head to visit an Amish farm before going on to Washington for two nights.
Each state has erected a monument to their fallen sons and there are various other monuments also. The whole area is a national monument and there are still some of the original buildings in the town where every building at the time became a hospital or shelter for the wounded. I guess Gettysburg is to the Americans like Gallipoli is to Australia but on their own shore.
Today we leave York and head to visit an Amish farm before going on to Washington for two nights.
NIAGARA FALLS
What can be said but wow and then some.
We stayed at the falls last night and have just driven through Gettysburg and the battle field. This huge area is a national monument and receives millions of visitors per year.
But first the falls and the best part is that we are back there again next Tuesday.
We explored around the Canadian side and paid to do the Journey behind the falls tour which was just great. They built a tunnel behind the Horseshoe falls that is 650m long andthis is about one third of the width of the falls. There is an observation deck down beside the falls and boy do you need the raincoat!! But the power of that water is awesome.The water is flowing at 40mph over the falls and supplies 20 per cent of the worlds fresh water. There are 4 power stations on the Niagara river with two each in Canada and the USA. After leaving the observation deck you enter the tunnel and then there are two more 'viewing' areas where you can look out at the back of the falls. The sound is as if you were standing in a tunnel with a train passing over the top...... constantly.
The mist from the falls rises and wets you even as you walk along away from the viewing area.
At night we could see the coloured lights playing on the American falls from our hotel room window so how special was that. The fact that it waas nearly 10pm before it was dark was a minor detail it was worth waiting up for. We had anearly morning today (leave at 6.55am) so a late night was not really needed but you had to watch the lights. They turn the falls into a rainbow and then the colours slowly change, and this goes on for a couple of hours.
We had an early start to try and beat the holdup at the USA border so we were bus number 2 in line instead of about number 6. Takes the best part of half an hour to get a bus load through.
We stayed at the falls last night and have just driven through Gettysburg and the battle field. This huge area is a national monument and receives millions of visitors per year.
But first the falls and the best part is that we are back there again next Tuesday.
We explored around the Canadian side and paid to do the Journey behind the falls tour which was just great. They built a tunnel behind the Horseshoe falls that is 650m long andthis is about one third of the width of the falls. There is an observation deck down beside the falls and boy do you need the raincoat!! But the power of that water is awesome.The water is flowing at 40mph over the falls and supplies 20 per cent of the worlds fresh water. There are 4 power stations on the Niagara river with two each in Canada and the USA. After leaving the observation deck you enter the tunnel and then there are two more 'viewing' areas where you can look out at the back of the falls. The sound is as if you were standing in a tunnel with a train passing over the top...... constantly.
The mist from the falls rises and wets you even as you walk along away from the viewing area.
At night we could see the coloured lights playing on the American falls from our hotel room window so how special was that. The fact that it waas nearly 10pm before it was dark was a minor detail it was worth waiting up for. We had anearly morning today (leave at 6.55am) so a late night was not really needed but you had to watch the lights. They turn the falls into a rainbow and then the colours slowly change, and this goes on for a couple of hours.
We had an early start to try and beat the holdup at the USA border so we were bus number 2 in line instead of about number 6. Takes the best part of half an hour to get a bus load through.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013
more Trivia
American federal highways running east west are even numbered running from 10 to 90 and the highways running north south are odd numbered running from 5 to 95.
Canada is the largest producer of newsprint in the world and their main resources are water and timber.
The whole population of Canada is 35million whilst the state of California has 36million.
The railroad built in the 1800's across Canada is 7777km long and links east to west.
Inventions in Canada include insulin, ice hockey (their national sport), plastic shopping bags, trivial pursuit and the Imax theatre.
When they write the cost of goods the price does not include the taxes that are then added so a muffin and coffee advertised for 3.50 actually costs over 4 dollars. Also their prices are written with the dollar sign at the end 4.50$
Canada is the largest producer of newsprint in the world and their main resources are water and timber.
The whole population of Canada is 35million whilst the state of California has 36million.
The railroad built in the 1800's across Canada is 7777km long and links east to west.
Inventions in Canada include insulin, ice hockey (their national sport), plastic shopping bags, trivial pursuit and the Imax theatre.
When they write the cost of goods the price does not include the taxes that are then added so a muffin and coffee advertised for 3.50 actually costs over 4 dollars. Also their prices are written with the dollar sign at the end 4.50$
Trivia
Quebec is french speaking and mainly Catholic (98% of the population). However only a small number are practicing Catholics and about 85% of the churches are being sold off and closed.
The St Lawrence river is over 3000 kms long and links the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean. The river is narrow at Quebec City (800m) and it is here there are the last bridges before the coast. After leaving here you can only cross the river by ferry. The river freezes here in winter and ice breakers are needed to keep the boats and ferrys working.
In Quebec City the first snow falls are in November and the last can be in April. The average temperature in Jan/Feb is minus 25 degrees and as there is a consistant wind this lowers the temp to minus 36. The city has an average 3.25m of snow every winter and the parks in the city are used for cross country skiing.
In Montreal during winter there is an underground system that allows you to catch the subway to work and then shop underground on your way home so that you don't need to go out into the cold. There is 25 miles of tunnels under the city and this includes shopping malls as well as the subway system. We went for a walk downtown this afternoon and went down into the underground shops. As it is now spring most of the shops were closing early in the day so we only had a brief glance at this interesting way of life.
We also visited the Notre Dame Cathedral here in Montreal and marvelled at the decoration inside. The stained windows and alter are just magnificent and the organ has over 7000 pipes ranging in size from half inch to over 30 feet in length. You could only wonder at how wonderful it would be to hear played. Pavrotti has sung there and wow wouldn't that have been something.
The St Lawrence river is over 3000 kms long and links the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean. The river is narrow at Quebec City (800m) and it is here there are the last bridges before the coast. After leaving here you can only cross the river by ferry. The river freezes here in winter and ice breakers are needed to keep the boats and ferrys working.
In Quebec City the first snow falls are in November and the last can be in April. The average temperature in Jan/Feb is minus 25 degrees and as there is a consistant wind this lowers the temp to minus 36. The city has an average 3.25m of snow every winter and the parks in the city are used for cross country skiing.
In Montreal during winter there is an underground system that allows you to catch the subway to work and then shop underground on your way home so that you don't need to go out into the cold. There is 25 miles of tunnels under the city and this includes shopping malls as well as the subway system. We went for a walk downtown this afternoon and went down into the underground shops. As it is now spring most of the shops were closing early in the day so we only had a brief glance at this interesting way of life.
We also visited the Notre Dame Cathedral here in Montreal and marvelled at the decoration inside. The stained windows and alter are just magnificent and the organ has over 7000 pipes ranging in size from half inch to over 30 feet in length. You could only wonder at how wonderful it would be to hear played. Pavrotti has sung there and wow wouldn't that have been something.
BUS TRIP N E AMERICA
Leaving New York soon after 8am on Sunday morning saw us heading out towards Boston, which was to be our lunch stop.
The weather was kind and we only drove through a few showers as we drove north and across the state line into Conneticut passing by New Haven where Yale university is located before then heading to Hartford the capital which hosts over 40 of the nation's largest insurance companies. Harriet Beecher Stowe and Mark Twain both lived in Hartford.
We soon enter the state of Massachusetts and arrive in Boston where we lunch at Quincy Market which has been the site of market stalls since the 1600's.
Our travelling companions on the bus come from the UK, NZ , a few from USA and the rest from Australia. It seemed so strange to have so many Aussies within the group.
In the evenings there are optional tours and dinners and we have done Boston at night and then last night we went to a 'sugar shack' which is the name for maple syrup plantations.
It takes 40 gallons of sap to make 1 gallon of syrup and the trees have to be 25yrs old before they produce. The trees can live for 300 yrs and the tapping can only be done during a 3 to 6 week period in spring. There needs to still be snow around the base of the tree so that at night the temperature is below zero but during the day the temperature needs to be above zero. The trunks are tapped and a bucket is hung to collect the sap which is then boiled at different temps to produce the syrup. We had dinner at the sugar shack and sampled various products utilising maple syrup and even had 'popsicles' made by pouring syrup over ice and then rolling it onto a popsicle stick and then enjoying. It was like soft but not runny toffee so you made sure you didn't waste time eating it.
During our 2nd day we had passed into Canada and spent the night at Quebec city.
We got to walk around the old city before leavimg at lunchtime and driving on to Montreal.
The weather has been kind to us and except for driving through a few showers we have had it fine.
The weather was kind and we only drove through a few showers as we drove north and across the state line into Conneticut passing by New Haven where Yale university is located before then heading to Hartford the capital which hosts over 40 of the nation's largest insurance companies. Harriet Beecher Stowe and Mark Twain both lived in Hartford.
We soon enter the state of Massachusetts and arrive in Boston where we lunch at Quincy Market which has been the site of market stalls since the 1600's.
Our travelling companions on the bus come from the UK, NZ , a few from USA and the rest from Australia. It seemed so strange to have so many Aussies within the group.
In the evenings there are optional tours and dinners and we have done Boston at night and then last night we went to a 'sugar shack' which is the name for maple syrup plantations.
It takes 40 gallons of sap to make 1 gallon of syrup and the trees have to be 25yrs old before they produce. The trees can live for 300 yrs and the tapping can only be done during a 3 to 6 week period in spring. There needs to still be snow around the base of the tree so that at night the temperature is below zero but during the day the temperature needs to be above zero. The trunks are tapped and a bucket is hung to collect the sap which is then boiled at different temps to produce the syrup. We had dinner at the sugar shack and sampled various products utilising maple syrup and even had 'popsicles' made by pouring syrup over ice and then rolling it onto a popsicle stick and then enjoying. It was like soft but not runny toffee so you made sure you didn't waste time eating it.
During our 2nd day we had passed into Canada and spent the night at Quebec city.
We got to walk around the old city before leavimg at lunchtime and driving on to Montreal.
The weather has been kind to us and except for driving through a few showers we have had it fine.
Sunday, June 16, 2013
LAST DAY IN NEW YORK
Our last day in New York was a clear sunny day, such a change from the showers and cloud cover we have had for so long. We took advantage of the sunshine and hopped back onto our bus tours and took the tour over to Brooklyn. The guide was a Brooklyn native and was quite frank with his comments and it seems that there is some strong feelings by the residents of Brooklyn and New Jersey towards the rest of the boroughs of New York city.
There are some lovely tree lined streets with the old brownstone buildings that have often featured in many tv shows and films eg Breakfast at Tiffanys, Sex and the City, Cosby show, When Harry met Sally and the list goes on. In cities that are so heavily populated it is good to see so many tree lined streets and green spaces.
When we returned to Manhatten from Brooklyn we hopped off downtown and made our way to Ground Zero. There is a 9/11 memorial centre set upand being Saturday the queue was sooooo long we decided to just wander. I remembered when I had been here in 2006 that I visited a fire station with a lovely mural dedicated to the fire fighters and police lost in the tragedy. By asking a few questions we got directions and found our way to the station andstarted talking to an older gentleman who was there cleaning the mural. I had thought that there had been another building close by and asked him about that as now the mural was out in the open. The answer was that the building I remembered had been damaged but could not be imploded to demolish it and had been slowly demolished piece by piece instead.
We found our way back up to Times Square and then strolled around, visiting Macys, Grand Central Station (which has recently turned 100)
There are some lovely tree lined streets with the old brownstone buildings that have often featured in many tv shows and films eg Breakfast at Tiffanys, Sex and the City, Cosby show, When Harry met Sally and the list goes on. In cities that are so heavily populated it is good to see so many tree lined streets and green spaces.
When we returned to Manhatten from Brooklyn we hopped off downtown and made our way to Ground Zero. There is a 9/11 memorial centre set upand being Saturday the queue was sooooo long we decided to just wander. I remembered when I had been here in 2006 that I visited a fire station with a lovely mural dedicated to the fire fighters and police lost in the tragedy. By asking a few questions we got directions and found our way to the station andstarted talking to an older gentleman who was there cleaning the mural. I had thought that there had been another building close by and asked him about that as now the mural was out in the open. The answer was that the building I remembered had been damaged but could not be imploded to demolish it and had been slowly demolished piece by piece instead.
We found our way back up to Times Square and then strolled around, visiting Macys, Grand Central Station (which has recently turned 100)
Saturday, June 15, 2013
and once again.......
and Ellis Island (where the immigrants arrived) are still closed following the tornado Sandy.
We have found a great deli/salad bar where you can eat in and you help yourself to fresh salads, chopped fruit and even hot meals and vegetables. We had lunch there today and then went back for some dinner this evening. Our afternoon tour took us on the Uptown route that took us both sides of Central Park as well as up to Harlem to see more of the interesting sites and sounds of New York.
When we returned to Times Square we went for a wander and found ourselves outside the M and M shop. Well what an interesting experience that turned out to be as there was a rainbow of m and m's and also bigger more chunky ones than we are used to. Needless to say we had to select some to take with us. All the different varieties were available, you simply put your plastic bag beneath the schute and pull the lever for as many as you want then move on to the next colour/size/flavour. Must say that has been a highlight so far. Naturally this is aimed at the tourist as there is everything you could want with the m and m logo on it. From t shirts, baby rompers, keyrings, mugs and just about everything else you could mention. As we didn't think to check on everyone's favourite m and m colour we will just have to buy for ourselves and everyone else will have to fend for themselves!
We have found a great deli/salad bar where you can eat in and you help yourself to fresh salads, chopped fruit and even hot meals and vegetables. We had lunch there today and then went back for some dinner this evening. Our afternoon tour took us on the Uptown route that took us both sides of Central Park as well as up to Harlem to see more of the interesting sites and sounds of New York.
When we returned to Times Square we went for a wander and found ourselves outside the M and M shop. Well what an interesting experience that turned out to be as there was a rainbow of m and m's and also bigger more chunky ones than we are used to. Needless to say we had to select some to take with us. All the different varieties were available, you simply put your plastic bag beneath the schute and pull the lever for as many as you want then move on to the next colour/size/flavour. Must say that has been a highlight so far. Naturally this is aimed at the tourist as there is everything you could want with the m and m logo on it. From t shirts, baby rompers, keyrings, mugs and just about everything else you could mention. As we didn't think to check on everyone's favourite m and m colour we will just have to buy for ourselves and everyone else will have to fend for themselves!
NEW YORK
Our trip across the Atlantic was smooth until we were coming into JFK airport and had to come down through the rain clouds that were overig NYC. Just on 7 1/4 hrs flying time and setting our watch back another 5hrs means we are now 14hrs behind home time.
We are on the 31st floor of our hotel that is on 8th Avenue between 34th and 35th streets west.
New York has a unique way of naming streets etc with the avenues running north/south and there are 12 of them. The streets run east/west and are numbered from south to north. Most of the roads in Manhatten are one way and there is a system to which direction they flow. With the streets also the even numbered ones flow one way and the odd numbers run the opposite. Certainly works.
We again have a three day pass to allow us on the 5 different sight seeing bus routes around the city. Our first night we tried the night tour however the showers returned with a vengence so we had to move downstairs part way through the trip and slowly the windows fogged up so it wasn't the fun it should have been, but there is still other nights.
Times Square however is in no way affected by rain and the lighted billboards were just as spectacular.
Finally into bed around midnight and then worked out we had actually been up for 24hrs, no wonder these two pensioners were feeling a little tired.
A new morning and we were off again back to our buses. We rode the Downtown route down to Battery Park and then went and caught the Statten Island ferry (free) and enjoyed the 20min trip across. For the return you must first disembark and then walk around to the boarding area to re-board for the return trip. This time we were able to view the Statue of Liberty and get some photos. You can also take a cruise across to the statue however the ferry simply circles the island as both the statue an
We are on the 31st floor of our hotel that is on 8th Avenue between 34th and 35th streets west.
New York has a unique way of naming streets etc with the avenues running north/south and there are 12 of them. The streets run east/west and are numbered from south to north. Most of the roads in Manhatten are one way and there is a system to which direction they flow. With the streets also the even numbered ones flow one way and the odd numbers run the opposite. Certainly works.
We again have a three day pass to allow us on the 5 different sight seeing bus routes around the city. Our first night we tried the night tour however the showers returned with a vengence so we had to move downstairs part way through the trip and slowly the windows fogged up so it wasn't the fun it should have been, but there is still other nights.
Times Square however is in no way affected by rain and the lighted billboards were just as spectacular.
Finally into bed around midnight and then worked out we had actually been up for 24hrs, no wonder these two pensioners were feeling a little tired.
A new morning and we were off again back to our buses. We rode the Downtown route down to Battery Park and then went and caught the Statten Island ferry (free) and enjoyed the 20min trip across. For the return you must first disembark and then walk around to the boarding area to re-board for the return trip. This time we were able to view the Statue of Liberty and get some photos. You can also take a cruise across to the statue however the ferry simply circles the island as both the statue an
as I was saying.........
After visiting the Abbey (which could have been a whole day in itself) we visited the Royal Mews to check out the royal carriages that are still in use today for state occasios. The horses that were on view were the main attraction for Lawrie and he was able to chat with some of the staff there amidst the stables.
The coaches are works of art in themselves and the art work and paint finish is all hand done by craftsmen using skills that have been handed down through generations.
The queen's coach is always pulled by greys and all others by bay/chocolate coloured horses. She is very involved with overseeing the breeding of the carriage horses and she also chooses the name for each one.
Finally our time in London had to come to an end and after an early morning next day we were on our way to New York.
The coaches are works of art in themselves and the art work and paint finish is all hand done by craftsmen using skills that have been handed down through generations.
The queen's coach is always pulled by greys and all others by bay/chocolate coloured horses. She is very involved with overseeing the breeding of the carriage horses and she also chooses the name for each one.
Finally our time in London had to come to an end and after an early morning next day we were on our way to New York.
LONDON Last Day
Our final day in the vibrant city saw us again riding the tube to visit St Pauls Cathedral.
This a lso is the 4th building on this site and this one was designed by Christopher Wren and took 200 yrs to complete between the 11th and 12th centuries. Various kings made additions through the years with various chapels etc to honour various members of their families for example.
The architecture is amazing and the decoration incredible. You are not allowed to take any photos inside the building the same as Westminster Abbey which was our next stopping point. I did an audio tour at both buildings and found the stories very interesting. The various kings and queens buried there bring to reality some of the stories we have heard. Visiting these places make me wish that I had beenmore interested in history all those years ago as now my memory is having trouble remembering the sequence of royals and who did what to who!
After
This a lso is the 4th building on this site and this one was designed by Christopher Wren and took 200 yrs to complete between the 11th and 12th centuries. Various kings made additions through the years with various chapels etc to honour various members of their families for example.
The architecture is amazing and the decoration incredible. You are not allowed to take any photos inside the building the same as Westminster Abbey which was our next stopping point. I did an audio tour at both buildings and found the stories very interesting. The various kings and queens buried there bring to reality some of the stories we have heard. Visiting these places make me wish that I had beenmore interested in history all those years ago as now my memory is having trouble remembering the sequence of royals and who did what to who!
After
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
LONDON
People, people and more people, that is our first impression of the famous city. We are staying in Earls Court and have found everything to be close by to make getting round a simple thing. We had purchased a 'London Pass' before leaving home and that included a transport pass for buses and trains and this has been great to use for the underground.
We only have a walk of a few minutes to get to the station and there is never a long wait for a train. Such a great system. I guess with a city of 12 million you have to have something that works. I read that approx 3 million people a day travel on the underground and we shared a train with quite a few of them yesterday when we returned home late in the afternoon!
We have walked Whitehall and seen Scotland Yard, #10 Downing St, Houses of Parliament MOD, Westminster Abbey, Nelsons Column and so the list goes on.
Our pass also gave us a cruise on the river from Westminster to Greenwich and return. Thiswas a great way to rest the legs and check out the sights also to have a cuppa and some lunch. Walking the streets you are hearing tongues from around the world.
We visited the Tower yesterday and also walked across the Tower Bridge with a detour down to see the mighty steam engines that were used to lift the spans to allow shipping traffic through. Ships have to give 24hrs notice of needing the bridge lifted and there are usually a couple every day, mostly at night. The pale blue colour that you see painted on the bridge and around different parts of the city was the favourite colour of Queen Victoria and is still used to this day.
We did a Beefeater Guard tour of the tower and heard some gruesome tales of its history and learnt that it is a working 'village' of is own still today. They have their own medical centre, a chapel, pub and even village green. This green inside the castle walls is where the ladies executions took place. Men were executed outside the walls on Tower Hill with a bellin the tower ringing 1 hour before the execution so that onlookers could come to watch. There was only one man executed inside the walls and he had been a good friend to the queen and although she could not prevent his execution she could prevent the public display. The history in todays ideas was so brutal and I found it chilling in some ways to be walking those paths and seeing the stories. We did visit the Crown Jewels however and thatmwas pretty gob smacking. Most of the collection of crowns gold 'tableware' dates back to 1661 and Charles II coronation. Tye previous regalia had been melted down or destroyed during a civil uprising and to fund the battles etc so come 1661 they then had to create new. It used to be tradition that following a coronation there would be a banquet andthis is where the gold tableware would be used. I tell you there was a gold punchbowl that you could take a bath in!! never mind the platters etc. It was really gold overload.
The crowns along with the sceptre and orb however are just magnificent and a delight to look at. The jewels are mind blowing and of course worth a kings ransom.
Today is our last day here and we plan to visit St Pauls Cathedral, inside Westminster Abbey and the Royal Mews to see the coaches etc. We visited the Horseguards museum and saw the horses (all black) and learnt what is required of this long established regiment. They spend 10hrs a day just polishing and caring for their equipment and on parade the best presented troops are allowed mounted duty whilst the worst is given foot duty. It is amazing how the horses can be able to bear standing there in their guard box for all that time. I do hope they get lots of exercise at some time.
We are certainly enjoying ourselves but you can only do so and see so much
We only have a walk of a few minutes to get to the station and there is never a long wait for a train. Such a great system. I guess with a city of 12 million you have to have something that works. I read that approx 3 million people a day travel on the underground and we shared a train with quite a few of them yesterday when we returned home late in the afternoon!
We have walked Whitehall and seen Scotland Yard, #10 Downing St, Houses of Parliament MOD, Westminster Abbey, Nelsons Column and so the list goes on.
Our pass also gave us a cruise on the river from Westminster to Greenwich and return. Thiswas a great way to rest the legs and check out the sights also to have a cuppa and some lunch. Walking the streets you are hearing tongues from around the world.
We visited the Tower yesterday and also walked across the Tower Bridge with a detour down to see the mighty steam engines that were used to lift the spans to allow shipping traffic through. Ships have to give 24hrs notice of needing the bridge lifted and there are usually a couple every day, mostly at night. The pale blue colour that you see painted on the bridge and around different parts of the city was the favourite colour of Queen Victoria and is still used to this day.
We did a Beefeater Guard tour of the tower and heard some gruesome tales of its history and learnt that it is a working 'village' of is own still today. They have their own medical centre, a chapel, pub and even village green. This green inside the castle walls is where the ladies executions took place. Men were executed outside the walls on Tower Hill with a bellin the tower ringing 1 hour before the execution so that onlookers could come to watch. There was only one man executed inside the walls and he had been a good friend to the queen and although she could not prevent his execution she could prevent the public display. The history in todays ideas was so brutal and I found it chilling in some ways to be walking those paths and seeing the stories. We did visit the Crown Jewels however and thatmwas pretty gob smacking. Most of the collection of crowns gold 'tableware' dates back to 1661 and Charles II coronation. Tye previous regalia had been melted down or destroyed during a civil uprising and to fund the battles etc so come 1661 they then had to create new. It used to be tradition that following a coronation there would be a banquet andthis is where the gold tableware would be used. I tell you there was a gold punchbowl that you could take a bath in!! never mind the platters etc. It was really gold overload.
The crowns along with the sceptre and orb however are just magnificent and a delight to look at. The jewels are mind blowing and of course worth a kings ransom.
Today is our last day here and we plan to visit St Pauls Cathedral, inside Westminster Abbey and the Royal Mews to see the coaches etc. We visited the Horseguards museum and saw the horses (all black) and learnt what is required of this long established regiment. They spend 10hrs a day just polishing and caring for their equipment and on parade the best presented troops are allowed mounted duty whilst the worst is given foot duty. It is amazing how the horses can be able to bear standing there in their guard box for all that time. I do hope they get lots of exercise at some time.
We are certainly enjoying ourselves but you can only do so and see so much
Monday, June 10, 2013
to LONDON continued
Well the tablet gremlin caught up with me again or it may be the blog gremlin but anyway when all else fails just 'restart' as they say in the business!
Never mind that I was confused when we were in Bath as it was NOT Saturday at all but Friday and then on to Newbridge near Oxford on Saturday and then into here on the Sunday. Must be tourist fatigue setting in or navigation fatigue for sure.
We sat with the map on Saturday night and planned our journey to return the car at Marble Arch like a military operation. Not that we were worried about driving into THIS city toooooo much!
Anyway at least it wasn't raining and with us both looking at every sign and lane marking we made it to the street we needed and just had to loop the block a second time to actually find the narrow driveway down which you returned the car. Whew we had done it and all in one piece. 2985 miles in total since crossing to Holyhead just over 3 weeks ago. We had enjoyed the countryside and the beautiful scenery and the many shades of green. Now we can sit back and let others do all the driving and navigating whilst we just enjoy.
It is early morning here now and time for breakfast so we can then start our 3 day exploration of London. Our hotel is here in Earls Court so we went wandering yesterday afternoon and found that the next street is full of shops and cafes etc so there is an endless variety of food on offer so look out London we are on our way.
Never mind that I was confused when we were in Bath as it was NOT Saturday at all but Friday and then on to Newbridge near Oxford on Saturday and then into here on the Sunday. Must be tourist fatigue setting in or navigation fatigue for sure.
We sat with the map on Saturday night and planned our journey to return the car at Marble Arch like a military operation. Not that we were worried about driving into THIS city toooooo much!
Anyway at least it wasn't raining and with us both looking at every sign and lane marking we made it to the street we needed and just had to loop the block a second time to actually find the narrow driveway down which you returned the car. Whew we had done it and all in one piece. 2985 miles in total since crossing to Holyhead just over 3 weeks ago. We had enjoyed the countryside and the beautiful scenery and the many shades of green. Now we can sit back and let others do all the driving and navigating whilst we just enjoy.
It is early morning here now and time for breakfast so we can then start our 3 day exploration of London. Our hotel is here in Earls Court so we went wandering yesterday afternoon and found that the next street is full of shops and cafes etc so there is an endless variety of food on offer so look out London we are on our way.
Journey through to LONDON
Our last few days have seen us journey north through the rolling countryside of the Atlantic Coastal Highway.
We stayed overnight just outside Bath and the next morning caught the bus into the city and then did the sightseeing bus rides to hear the history and take in the views.
Again we in awe of the design that went into the buildings back then and we certainly enjoyed our morning roaming after the bus tours.
Bath of course is known for its Roman baths and the natural springs that feed the baths. With it being a clear sunny day and a Saturday it seemed that half the countryside had come for a look and the line awaiting to enter was nearly as long as that in Edinburgh to see the Crown jewels so being us we decided as we had sat in the Roman bath house at Hadrians Wall we would give this one a miss. After all we still had to return to our hotel and drive to our next destination just west of Oxford.
The days of long distances were now over as today and the next were going to be less than 100 miles so less chance of taking the wrong turn so often.
Our stay nearly 12 miles out of Oxford was a little old pub that on a sunny Sunday was definately the place to be. Right beside a canal with lots of old boats moored there to add to the scenery they had a large outdoor area with tables and chairs as well as inside and the place was crawling with people. I think the food must have bee
We stayed overnight just outside Bath and the next morning caught the bus into the city and then did the sightseeing bus rides to hear the history and take in the views.
Again we in awe of the design that went into the buildings back then and we certainly enjoyed our morning roaming after the bus tours.
Bath of course is known for its Roman baths and the natural springs that feed the baths. With it being a clear sunny day and a Saturday it seemed that half the countryside had come for a look and the line awaiting to enter was nearly as long as that in Edinburgh to see the Crown jewels so being us we decided as we had sat in the Roman bath house at Hadrians Wall we would give this one a miss. After all we still had to return to our hotel and drive to our next destination just west of Oxford.
The days of long distances were now over as today and the next were going to be less than 100 miles so less chance of taking the wrong turn so often.
Our stay nearly 12 miles out of Oxford was a little old pub that on a sunny Sunday was definately the place to be. Right beside a canal with lots of old boats moored there to add to the scenery they had a large outdoor area with tables and chairs as well as inside and the place was crawling with people. I think the food must have bee
Saturday, June 8, 2013
PORTSCATHO in Cornwall
Our flying trip across the south of England continued after our 2 nights in Weymouth.
Driving across Devon we have fine weather however there is a haze still everywhere so all our scenery is tinged with blue.The hills are more rolling and still there are sheep and cattlealong with grain crops.
Part of our journey is on a motorway so no time to dawdle and the photos have to be taken on the wing as there are no rest areas where the views are.
Our stop tonight is at a farm B&B so we end up down some narrow lanes that make oncoming traffic interesting. We took ourselves off down to St Mawes for a look around and what a pretty little village on the water. Lots of boats of all shapes and sizes and lovely clean blue water. This also seems to be a popular spot for holiday makers.
Leaving next morning we took a short cut to Truro and went across the King Harry Ferry for the ride. This saved us back tracking on yesterdays route and kept us on new roads. Man we thought we drove some narrow lanes yesterday but these took the cake and we were very pleased to come to a road with a white line again.
Driving across Devon we have fine weather however there is a haze still everywhere so all our scenery is tinged with blue.The hills are more rolling and still there are sheep and cattlealong with grain crops.
Part of our journey is on a motorway so no time to dawdle and the photos have to be taken on the wing as there are no rest areas where the views are.
Our stop tonight is at a farm B&B so we end up down some narrow lanes that make oncoming traffic interesting. We took ourselves off down to St Mawes for a look around and what a pretty little village on the water. Lots of boats of all shapes and sizes and lovely clean blue water. This also seems to be a popular spot for holiday makers.
Leaving next morning we took a short cut to Truro and went across the King Harry Ferry for the ride. This saved us back tracking on yesterdays route and kept us on new roads. Man we thought we drove some narrow lanes yesterday but these took the cake and we were very pleased to come to a road with a white line again.
Friday, June 7, 2013
WEYMOUTH
The drive across the bottom from Dover took us along the coast through some delightful countryside. Beautiful seascape vistas were ours to enjoy as long as you didn't want to stop to enjoy as there wasn't parking areas available. Villages with narrow streets were again the norm and you could see the shipping influence in the names of the inns and streets etc. Finally we went onto the A roads and then the motorway taking us away from the coast. We were happy to be able to travel more smoothly by now and the miles soon slipped by.
Weymouth has a strong naval influence and there are various MOD (ministry of defence) properties around the town. Just south of Weymouth connected to the mainland is the island of Portland which is reknowned for Portland Stone. This lovely stone is used in many buildings around the area and even the King Henry VIII fort built at Portland is of this stone.
We visited the castle / fort and enjoyed a tour with lots of photo ops. The fort was built in 1545 to help protect the harbour and was used up until the end of WWII when it was finally decommissioned and sat unused till around the 1960's when the building was recognised for it's historic value. During the 1800's it had been converted to be used as the private residence of the captain of the fort and was used this way for about 50 yrs untill the navy took over running the fort.
We also enjoyed walking the esplanade and yes it was sunny but a very cool breeze was blowing but there on the beach (gravel) folk were sun baking and turning red. It was so obvious. I am sure the water must have been cold however as there was no-one swimming. There were carousels and food vendors and deck chairs for hire (for 2pound) and there were folk just sitting in the deck chairs snoozing and turning red!
We were surprised to come across an ANZAC memorial on the sea front and it was quite moving to read the words there honouring our N Z and Aussie members of the forces who passed through that area during the first World War.
Weymouth is certainly a seaside destination for folk and when the sun shines they come out to enjoy, and so they should.
Weymouth has a strong naval influence and there are various MOD (ministry of defence) properties around the town. Just south of Weymouth connected to the mainland is the island of Portland which is reknowned for Portland Stone. This lovely stone is used in many buildings around the area and even the King Henry VIII fort built at Portland is of this stone.
We visited the castle / fort and enjoyed a tour with lots of photo ops. The fort was built in 1545 to help protect the harbour and was used up until the end of WWII when it was finally decommissioned and sat unused till around the 1960's when the building was recognised for it's historic value. During the 1800's it had been converted to be used as the private residence of the captain of the fort and was used this way for about 50 yrs untill the navy took over running the fort.
We also enjoyed walking the esplanade and yes it was sunny but a very cool breeze was blowing but there on the beach (gravel) folk were sun baking and turning red. It was so obvious. I am sure the water must have been cold however as there was no-one swimming. There were carousels and food vendors and deck chairs for hire (for 2pound) and there were folk just sitting in the deck chairs snoozing and turning red!
We were surprised to come across an ANZAC memorial on the sea front and it was quite moving to read the words there honouring our N Z and Aussie members of the forces who passed through that area during the first World War.
Weymouth is certainly a seaside destination for folk and when the sun shines they come out to enjoy, and so they should.
DOVER
Well what a great stopover. Our host David told us of a great spot to visit to have the best view of the white cliffs and he wasn't wrong.
We found our way to the lighthouse that was built in 1843 and this lighthouse would have guided my Captain Lott safely into harbour and that thought brought real emotion to the surface as I did a tour of the lighthouse.
We drove down to the beach at St Margarets and walked along to the cliffs. There had been a fall just a few weeks ago and the face of the cliff was so white. There is a building down on the beach and this was once owned by Noel Coward and later by Ian Fleming. It seemed quite abandoned at the moment so not sure if anyone is still living there.
Of course the sound of a beach house is rather ideallic however the reality would be a little different. The house was quite exposed and the beach was gravel not sand. No going outside and feeling sand between the toes here!
We were also fortunate to find our way to a cliff top to be able to look down on the ferry loading area. This is where the ferries depart for Calais in France and they say there is one per hour and we could see 6 berths in front of us with loading ramps for each one. It was like looking down onto a childs play mat with roads going everywhere. Trucks, buses, campervans and caravans along with cars were coming and going non stop. It really was amazing and the trip only takes about 45mins on these ferries.
We found our way to the lighthouse that was built in 1843 and this lighthouse would have guided my Captain Lott safely into harbour and that thought brought real emotion to the surface as I did a tour of the lighthouse.
We drove down to the beach at St Margarets and walked along to the cliffs. There had been a fall just a few weeks ago and the face of the cliff was so white. There is a building down on the beach and this was once owned by Noel Coward and later by Ian Fleming. It seemed quite abandoned at the moment so not sure if anyone is still living there.
Of course the sound of a beach house is rather ideallic however the reality would be a little different. The house was quite exposed and the beach was gravel not sand. No going outside and feeling sand between the toes here!
We were also fortunate to find our way to a cliff top to be able to look down on the ferry loading area. This is where the ferries depart for Calais in France and they say there is one per hour and we could see 6 berths in front of us with loading ramps for each one. It was like looking down onto a childs play mat with roads going everywhere. Trucks, buses, campervans and caravans along with cars were coming and going non stop. It really was amazing and the trip only takes about 45mins on these ferries.
Monday, June 3, 2013
Dover 'cnt
The Dartford bridge with a toll of 2 pounds carried all the traffic from north to south across the river and the Dartford Tunnel carries all the traffic going from south to north. The plan had originally been to have the tunnel carry both directions however the level of traffic was so heavy that the flow was changed to all lanes going the same way.
Once over the bridge we were not long to turn for Canterbury and head down into Kent.
Lovely green fields roll in all directions and more flowering Rapeseed fields pass us by. Having successfully negotiated a part of the trip I had been dreading we took advantage of one of the 'services' stops along the motorway and celebrated our success with a cuppa and a muffin. Such decadence!!
Our stay for the next 2 nights is a guest house on the outer edge of Dover but from where we can easily visit the 'white cliffs' and also the village where my great great grandfatherwas born. He became a Master Mariner (captain) and sailed to Austalia in 1853 bringing his pregnant wife and 4yr old son with him as he captained the ship safely to Port Melbourne where he stayed for a couple of years before moving to Newcastle in NSW. Just6 days out from land his wife gave birth to his second son my g grandfather named John (after his grandfather), Stanhope (the name of the ship), Otway (the first land sighted after his birth) Lott. This name has continued down through the family to this current day.
Once over the bridge we were not long to turn for Canterbury and head down into Kent.
Lovely green fields roll in all directions and more flowering Rapeseed fields pass us by. Having successfully negotiated a part of the trip I had been dreading we took advantage of one of the 'services' stops along the motorway and celebrated our success with a cuppa and a muffin. Such decadence!!
Our stay for the next 2 nights is a guest house on the outer edge of Dover but from where we can easily visit the 'white cliffs' and also the village where my great great grandfatherwas born. He became a Master Mariner (captain) and sailed to Austalia in 1853 bringing his pregnant wife and 4yr old son with him as he captained the ship safely to Port Melbourne where he stayed for a couple of years before moving to Newcastle in NSW. Just6 days out from land his wife gave birth to his second son my g grandfather named John (after his grandfather), Stanhope (the name of the ship), Otway (the first land sighted after his birth) Lott. This name has continued down through the family to this current day.
Down to DOVER
After our great time in York it was time to head further south. Our destination was Sutton Bridge a small village just north of Kings Lynn in Lancashire.
Our drive took us through what we decided must be part of England's food bowl. We saw fields in all directions under crops and fields of Rapeseed in flower giving us a golden field when the sun broke through clouds to shine on it. We had thought it was Canola and maybe it is by another name but the sight of bright yellow field after field was lovely to see.
If the fields were not yellow they were green, no signs of drought or dry land here.
We did not do any detours and just stuck to the main highway to arrive at our B&B by mid afternoon. We were happy to stay put for the rest of the afternoon and enjoyed a chat with the managers who have been caravanners (their van now for sale) and an evening of doing not much at all. That is other than studying maps to check out how to achieve our goals the next day.
We used to watch a show on ABC a few years ago called 'Jimmy's Farm' which was about a young chap setting out to save a breed of pig that was under threat of extinction and all the dramas and fun he had trying to achieve his dream of having a self sufficient farm. We had followed his story and decided that as we were coming over here we were going to visit his farm. Well we achieved our goal today and had a roast dinner in the restaurant on the farm and even sat and chatted to Jimmy and one of his long term staff who is still with him.
After having found our way to Wherestead we then had to make our way to Dover and this looked as though it would be a test for the nerves as we had to come west as far as the ring road around the edge of London before we could head south east to Dover. The real test came as we approached the Dartford Bridge to cross the Thames river along with a cazillion other motorists planning to do the same thing. Fortunately with all that traffic no-one could move fast so there was more time to look at the signs etc
Our drive took us through what we decided must be part of England's food bowl. We saw fields in all directions under crops and fields of Rapeseed in flower giving us a golden field when the sun broke through clouds to shine on it. We had thought it was Canola and maybe it is by another name but the sight of bright yellow field after field was lovely to see.
If the fields were not yellow they were green, no signs of drought or dry land here.
We did not do any detours and just stuck to the main highway to arrive at our B&B by mid afternoon. We were happy to stay put for the rest of the afternoon and enjoyed a chat with the managers who have been caravanners (their van now for sale) and an evening of doing not much at all. That is other than studying maps to check out how to achieve our goals the next day.
We used to watch a show on ABC a few years ago called 'Jimmy's Farm' which was about a young chap setting out to save a breed of pig that was under threat of extinction and all the dramas and fun he had trying to achieve his dream of having a self sufficient farm. We had followed his story and decided that as we were coming over here we were going to visit his farm. Well we achieved our goal today and had a roast dinner in the restaurant on the farm and even sat and chatted to Jimmy and one of his long term staff who is still with him.
After having found our way to Wherestead we then had to make our way to Dover and this looked as though it would be a test for the nerves as we had to come west as far as the ring road around the edge of London before we could head south east to Dover. The real test came as we approached the Dartford Bridge to cross the Thames river along with a cazillion other motorists planning to do the same thing. Fortunately with all that traffic no-one could move fast so there was more time to look at the signs etc
Sunday, June 2, 2013
York cnt
Just another gremlin.....
As I was saying, or trying to, the first cathedral was built in 620AD so the history is long and varied.
St Cuthberts church was built in the 1200's and has a small door on one side called the 'devils door'. When christenings were being held this door was opened to'let the devil out'.
The visible walls around York were built in 1220 as the original walls were wood. The mounds on which the walls stand were built however in 900 by the Danes.
In York the streets are 'gates', the gates into the city are 'bars' and the bars are 'pubs'.
So you really have to be careful what you ask for!
There are buildings where you can see that the windows have been bricked up. There was a time when there was a tax on the number of windows you have and if the tax wasn't paid the town officials came and bricked up your windows, hence the term 'daylight robbery'.
York is known for being a chocolate town as chocolate has been made here since 1707 with two families, the Jukes and Rowntree families establishing factories in the city. Both families were Quakers and introduced improved working conditions for their employees and their families. They were the first to introduce a pension scheme and at night Mrs Rowntree ran schools for the employees and their family so as they could have an education. Rowntree still produce Kit Kats in York.
The other chocolate factory closed in 2007 and their product is now made in Poland.
Mickelgate Bar is the main entrance into the city and all royalty that has visited the city has entered by this gate, even the current queen makes her way to this gate to obtain the permission of the Lord Mayor before entering. Traditionally this was the entrance way where the heads of those found guilty of major crimes were put on pikes to act as a warning to to others back in the 1700's.
You could easily spens a week here alone and we finished our day with a meal in a pub
As I was saying, or trying to, the first cathedral was built in 620AD so the history is long and varied.
St Cuthberts church was built in the 1200's and has a small door on one side called the 'devils door'. When christenings were being held this door was opened to'let the devil out'.
The visible walls around York were built in 1220 as the original walls were wood. The mounds on which the walls stand were built however in 900 by the Danes.
In York the streets are 'gates', the gates into the city are 'bars' and the bars are 'pubs'.
So you really have to be careful what you ask for!
There are buildings where you can see that the windows have been bricked up. There was a time when there was a tax on the number of windows you have and if the tax wasn't paid the town officials came and bricked up your windows, hence the term 'daylight robbery'.
York is known for being a chocolate town as chocolate has been made here since 1707 with two families, the Jukes and Rowntree families establishing factories in the city. Both families were Quakers and introduced improved working conditions for their employees and their families. They were the first to introduce a pension scheme and at night Mrs Rowntree ran schools for the employees and their family so as they could have an education. Rowntree still produce Kit Kats in York.
The other chocolate factory closed in 2007 and their product is now made in Poland.
Mickelgate Bar is the main entrance into the city and all royalty that has visited the city has entered by this gate, even the current queen makes her way to this gate to obtain the permission of the Lord Mayor before entering. Traditionally this was the entrance way where the heads of those found guilty of major crimes were put on pikes to act as a warning to to others back in the 1700's.
You could easily spens a week here alone and we finished our day with a meal in a pub
York
Our drive on to York was all in fog. Once we came south from Hadrian's Wall we were in thick fog with visibility very limited. Needless to say there were still some driving fast on the roads.
Now that I have found how to use my tablet as a sat nav we are not getting lost as often but if we do take a wrong turn we can find our way back easier.
I just have to remember to download the maps for the next day at night for use 'offline'.
York is a 'walled' city and only the foolish or desperate would drive there. There is a ring road system around the outside and we made use of this to get to our hotel and for our foray to Heartbeat country the next morning. This was our 2nd sunny morning so we drove out and caught the steam train that goes to Whitby from Pickering and stops at Goathland where the village ' Aidensfield' is filmed. Yes there was the pub and 'Scripps Garage' looking just like they should. I believe the station was also used for the Harry Potter movies.
We drove back to our hotel and left the car for a 10min walk into York centre and a tour on the ity sightseeing bus. These really are the way to go to see and hear about the local history.
York Minster the beautiful cathedral took 200 yrs to build. It is the 4th on that site as the first 3 were burnt down and it was finished in 1472.
The craftmanship is incredible and there is restoration work being done on the east tower and the stone masons have their work area set up so that you can see the work being done, all by hand, once the blocks are to size.
Now that I have found how to use my tablet as a sat nav we are not getting lost as often but if we do take a wrong turn we can find our way back easier.
I just have to remember to download the maps for the next day at night for use 'offline'.
York is a 'walled' city and only the foolish or desperate would drive there. There is a ring road system around the outside and we made use of this to get to our hotel and for our foray to Heartbeat country the next morning. This was our 2nd sunny morning so we drove out and caught the steam train that goes to Whitby from Pickering and stops at Goathland where the village ' Aidensfield' is filmed. Yes there was the pub and 'Scripps Garage' looking just like they should. I believe the station was also used for the Harry Potter movies.
We drove back to our hotel and left the car for a 10min walk into York centre and a tour on the ity sightseeing bus. These really are the way to go to see and hear about the local history.
York Minster the beautiful cathedral took 200 yrs to build. It is the 4th on that site as the first 3 were burnt down and it was finished in 1472.
The craftmanship is incredible and there is restoration work being done on the east tower and the stone masons have their work area set up so that you can see the work being done, all by hand, once the blocks are to size.
Whitley Bay to York
Our evening at Whitley Bay was spent staying warm after we went out for a walk to the sea front. Th wind was blowing a gale and it was trying to rain at the same time. Fortunately it didn't or it would have been sleet. We enjoyed the bracing air (for about 2 mins) then struttrd our way round and back to our hotel from which we didn't move till next morning.
The new day was just fog and more fog .
HADRIAN'S WALL - we visited Chesters Fort near Hexham and wow what a place to stroll around. The history there was amazing. The wall built in 122AD and the various forts along it are testament to the Roman skills of the day. The remains of the bathouse beside the river at the fort show the ingenuity of those folk. There was a stoker hole where fires would have urnt and then above this was the 'hot' room then connected to the 'warm' room with finally the 'cold' room furthest away. The rooms had been placed above channels that carried the steam and heat from the stoker room under the slabbed floors so that the steam and heat could rise to be used in the room. There were channels and drains built to carry the clean water and to dispose of the dirty as well as latrines for toilet waste. All these are constructed with blocks of stone some the height of Lawrie for doorways etc and others cut as blocks for constructing the walls. Just amazing to be able to touch something this old.
It is currently mid term break over here and the centre at the fort were running activities for the children with dress up and role playing for all. Looked a lot of fun, yet educational for the kids.
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