All posts by Kim

England, Scotland

Back In England

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Wednesday 20th September 2017

We were up early and away from our stopover in Scotland to try to make the 300 or more miles down to our next stop for the night back in England.

20.09.2017 Route

Towing Kilometres – Today: 438 – Cumulative: 2,500

We headed towards Dumfries, but this also meant heading north again to take the major roads and avoid any Sat Nav mishaps. The weather was ‘dreek’. We paid a fleeting homage to Gretna Green just before we joined M6 and began our journey southwards.

One stop at Westmorland Tebay services, Cumbria and we continued on our way to meet the traffic congestion we had so not missed. Gridlock on M6 and 2 hour delays did not fill us with joy.

Sat Nav finally came good and diverted us around the ‘car crash’ and avoided most of the backlog.

We finally arrived at our last destination, Cannock Chase Camping and Caravanning Club Site, Rugeley, Staffordshire. Cannock Chase is an AONB and the campsite was perfectly situated in the forest to explore this area on foot or by bike. The campsite wardens were brilliant and made us very welcome.

That night we headed out to a local pub, The Chetwyn Arms, Upper Longdon, recommended by the wardens. The menu had various daily specials as well as the full menu and was most enjoyable.

Finally our heads hit the pillows and we were not disturbed until a few loose acorns dropped off the over handing tree, onto the caravan roof and rolled off!! It is amazing how loud these little nuts make when they land. We really must be more observant when setting up.

Scotland

Culzean Castle At Overnight Stop

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Tuesday 19th September 2017

Today we said au revoir to Northern Ireland, but know that we will be back again, not least to visit Belfast City.

Belfast to Cairnryan Ferry

We caught the Stena Line Ferry from Belfast Docks to Cairnryan on the eastern shore of Loch Ryan in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland.

19.09.2017 Route

Towing Kilometres – Today: 70 – Cumulative: 2,062

The crossing was only 2 hours 15 minutes and comfortable and smooth. We treated ourselves to an upgrade on board, which was well worth the money.  Our next stop for the night was north of the ferry port and took us on A77, along the rocky shoreline and through Ballantrae, Lendalfoot and Girvan. We were able to take in views of Ailsa Craig as we travelled.

Finally as we passed through Turnberry Golf Course, looking most inviting in the fading light, we reached our night time stop, Culzean Castle Camping and Caravanning Club Site.

Despite the rather wet grassy pitch, which posed a slight problem, siting the caravan. Apparently the heaving rains in this area lately had not helped our cause. You’d think we’d be used to the weather conditions by now!

The site was situated at the entrance to Culzean Castle and Country Park in Ayrshire, another National Trust property. Unluckily for us, we had arrived to late to take advantage of our membership card and would be leaving early next morning, unable to pay this glorious estate a visit. (Another place to add to our wish list).

Northern Ireland

The Ards Peninsula, County Down

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Monday 18th September 2017

Jennie and Dennis had offered to take us on a mini tour of Strangford Lough today, which we had gratefully accepted.

First on the agenda for the day was an ‘Ulster Fry’ at the local flying club. (Apparently, this has to be done). The Cloud 9 Restaurant did not disappoint. The food was delicious with service to match and the views across the airfield to Scrabo Tower were lovely, as was the weather again. We were blessed!

We set off towards Mount Stewart on the east side of the Lough, which is now owned by The National Trust. It has undergone a 3 year long restoration project and we had definitely chosen the perfect time to visit.

Mount Stewart

We had a guided tour around the house which was so interesting and informative. Each room was a feast for the eye and because it is still used as a family residence it felt so warm and welcoming.

Entrance Hall

This photograph shows the latest renovation unveiled this year, the central hall floor. The modern tiles were lifted to reveal the original sandstone floor, dating back to 1840.

Portrait Of Hambletonian Over Ornate Staircase

This beautiful staircase was designed by George Dance and the superb painting by George Stubbs, depicts Hambletonian, a celebrated race horse, after winning a race at Newmarket racecourse in 1799. It is just one of many pieces of artwork which are on show throughout the house.

After the hour long tour we took a stroll through part of the gardens. We would certainly need to spend a lot more time next time we visit, exploring the many varied and beautifully tended gardens. The micro climate of the area allows the growth and cultivation of many plant species, not local to the area.

Mount Stewart Gardens

Our tour continued around the Lough, taking in Greyabbey on the Ards Peninsula, before heading towards Ballywater on the coast of the Irish Sea, with views over to the Isle of Man. We travelled along the coast to the seaside town of Donaghadee, to enjoy,what Dennis refers to, as the best ice-cream in the world. (It was rather tasty). Donaghadee is also home to Grace Neill’s pub, reputedly build in 1611, making it the oldest in Ireland. Onwards to Bangor, a seaside town on the southern side of Belfast Lough, and home of the Bangor Bell. A 4 metre high sculpture, close to Bangor Abbey.

The final leg of our journey took us full circle back to Newtownards, where we  said goodbye to our hosts, until we would meet again later for dinner.