I have finally finished what I set out to do 2 years ago. When I planned this tour there was not much on the BB about it - so hope this is of help to anyone thinking about it.

We start with Days 1 - 13

DAY ONE - Wednesday 30th JULY
HELLO BRITAIN HERE I COME!

After arriving a day earlier where the 6am wake up call came at 7am - today's wake up call for 7am comes at 7.30am. Seems to be a ‘Hilton’ thing, but I must admit they are getting better - only half hour late today. More words when I check out. Apologies, apologies. Yeah, yeah. Another forgettable continental brekkie and the bus – sorry – COACH - has arrived.

THE INSIGHT TOUR BEGINS - - London to Stratford
We have a full coach and I have been allocated my seating partner for the tour –a girl who I reckon is in her is late twenties, travelling with mum and dad. She is already in the seat near the window and I end up with ¾ of a seat and up the back of the coach. Things are not looking good. Our TD Paul Fisher explains that we will be rotating two rows of seats forward every day. OK – I can handle that. Paul seems to be OK at this stage and he is busy getting all the bags and people on the coach. Our driver’s name is Kenny and he is Scottish. The big black coach has been chartered from Park’s in Scotland. There are lots of Aussies and Kiwis and only 2 Americans. Out of London and heading North West we arrive at Oxford. Lots of interesting things to see and do. Loads of history including the university – Paul leads us on a small tour so that we get to know the place a bit and then we can do our own thing for 2 hours. Wander around and around and decide to climb to the top of the Sheldonian Theatre (in the university) Cost ₤1.50. Loads of steps but definitely well worth the effort. I arrive at the top – out of breath and legs killing. The views of Oxford and the spires are spectacular. Little bit hazy but good enough to take photos.
Back down the stairs and discover a cute little arcade where I buy some lunch.
A huge roll with brie and mango that I eat on the steps of the monument in the square. (I save half the roll for later). Back onto the coach for a little less than ¾ of my seat as she has now bought stuff and it’s only the first day. Deep breathing and meditation is planned. We continue North driving through the Cotswolds and arrive at Stratford – upon – Avon. Anne Hathaway’s Cottage – everyone on the tour has to pose for the Group Photo. If you want to buy it ₤5 - I didn't.
Very pretty house – thatched roof and pretty garden.
On into the town itself. Very Elizabethan – just like the postcards. The coach drops us off and takes our bags to the THISTLE HOTEL.
Paul tells us a bit about the town and then we can wander around and discover it by ourselves.
Before being left to our own devices we are told we can walk to the hotel as it is not far – heard that one before - or we can get the bus back in a couple of hours. I opt for the bus. Head off for Shakespeare’s birthplace and school.
I discover the local sweet shop – a few bags of lollies later I head off to buy some postcards and stamps. The plan is to write them out tonight.
Walk down to the river which is really ‘English’ with little boats and very relaxing.
Statues of Shakespeare’s characters, Hamlet, Lady Macbeth etc.
Back on the bus and we drive for 2 minutes to the hotel. Really quaint hotel right on the river and opposite the Shakespeare Theatre. My room is small but very clean and there is a big bath. Drop off some stuff in the room and head for where Shakespeare is buried - Holy Trinity Church - just a little walk from the Thistle Hotel. Church closes at 5pm and I get there right on closing. I must have looked sad and forlorn because they took pity on me let me in. Lovely people.
The tomb is inside the church – no photos allowed.
Back to the hotel for a lovely bath and get ready for complimentary drinks before dinner. During this get together I have three glasses of wine. Oops - it was supposed to be 1 glass per guest. There were a lot in the group not drinking - so I had theirs.

Dinner was :
Fanned Melon with Fruit Syrup
Grilled Salmon with Sun Dried Tomato Garnish and Jacket Potatoes
Meringue with Forest Berries Coffee.

The plan to write some postcards goes amiss – decide to sleep, perchance to dream - - - -


DAY TWO - - Thursday 31st July
START OF THE SPENDING SPREE – Stratford to York

31st July – After creating a small problem at breakfast – cereal, juice and toast and then they served me eggs so that went back quick smart. Got double serve of bacon and tomato.
Head off to Wedgwood factory. Doesn’t really excite me all that much but you’ve got to have some Wedgwood from Wedgwood so some pressies for those left at home and me. Now I’ve got to carry the stuff around for the next 25 days and make sure it doesn’t break. Stop and have a chat with a few workers on how they put the decorations on the stuff by hand. Very interesting. I must admit this is the only place I didn’t take any photos.
Back on the coach – heading east and my seating partner comments on how my bag is bigger than hers. I keep my composure and say I most probably spent more.

We head north through Nottingham – I don’t see Robin Hood - lunch stop for half an hour at some cafeteria type place and then head off to York.
'We view Warick Castle' which was a quick zip past so make sure you have the camera ready. Blink and you'll miss it. Maybe they have changed that now.
Arrive at the QUALITY HOTEL. Nice room, clean and the bed comfortable but overall very sparse.
Paul takes us on a walking tour of York where we see the Shambles. Really narrow streets full of interesting nooks and crannies and we head for York Minster.
The carvings on the outside are unbelievable and you can take photos inside – so here we go again.
We can make our own way back to the hotel. I decide to visit the Norman Keep which is a fortress on the top of a hill – more steps but worth the climb.
Buskers in the streets – it is school summer holidays – a group of music students are playing Bolero and they are doing a great job so I throw a couple of coins into the violin case.
Buy a chicken pastie, the size of a family pie and an apple & raspberry tart for dinner.
Early night – sleep, sleep.

DAY THREE - - Friday 1st AUGUST
ON TO BONNIE SCOTLAND – York to Edinburgh

Breakfast was a self serve big English buffet. YAY!!!!!!! Lots of bacon, tomato, mushrooms, fresh fruit with yoghurt, juice, toast and coffee. Am amazed to watch how some people on this tour stash a large amount of food away in their bags. This is to save them having to spend money and buy lunch later in the day. The lift in the hotel is so slow.
It is quicker to walk – even lugging the cabin bag, shoulder bag and camera bags.
Leaving York we head North West.
We call into a place called Rheged. It is a huge shopping Mall so we can walk around and stretch our legs. You wouldn’t even know it was there. It is built into the countryside and you have to see it to believe it.
It is near the town of Penrith in Cumbria.
Inside the Mall there is a waterfall, lots of shops, a theatre, restaurants - all hidden away. Through the Lakes District - so pretty - through Cumbria and we cross the Scottish border on the far west side of Scotland.
We arrive in Gretna Green for lunch. This is where people used to come when they eloped.
We are lucky enough to be here when there is a wedding at the famous Blacksmith’s Shop and we get some cake (I am sure it is done up for the tourists). The groom doesn’t look too pleased. Pipers (typically touristy) but great none the less.
Tourists falling over themselves to have their photo taken with the piper. Waiting, waiting for the piper to be by himself and playing his bagpipes to get some shots. There is a rather strange looking metal sculpture in the courtyard.

I think it has something to do with William Wallace, who we all know as Braveheart. Lots and lots of coaches all heading for Edinburgh and the Tattoo. Had a cheese and chutney sandwich and coke for lunch. Am not going to eat my wedding cake. I will put it under my pillow tonight. Lunch was not overly exciting but I was hungry.
Back on the road – we pass Lockerbie – site of the disastrous plane crash – turn a little bit North-East and arrive in Edinburgh. Kenny gives us a bit of a quick coach tour of Edinburgh. We are going on a proper guided tour tomorrow with a local guide - and then on to our lodgings – EDINBURGH MARRIOTT HOTEL.
Nothing against the previous hotels but after the last two nights this is sheer luxury. Large room, large bath and even larger Queen size bed. Shortbreads on the pillows and hot chocolate sachets as well as coffee and tea. The décor leaves a bit to be desired, tartans and florals. Oh well, you can’t have everything. Make myself a nice big bubbly bath and indulge with some hot chocolate as I laze in the water and contemplate what has been and what is to come.

Paul has given us a list of 15 optionals for the tour and after huffing and humming - I decide to do the lot. Good old trusty Visa card comes in handy! I look on the positive side – more frequent flyer points. I’ll worry about the money when I get home. Tonight gets the ball rolling –

#1 OPTIONAL: Pre-Tattoo Dinner at a local pub – Merchants. Cost ₤24.00

An old Edinburgh pub and the place is packed. There is no room anywhere. We are squeezed in like sardines. They must love this time of year. Meal consists of -
Salmon Mousse with Dill Cream (yum); Angus Beef with Veggies (yum, yum) and Crannachan (cranakin) for dessert. This apparently is a traditional Scottish dessert with loads of fresh raspberries covered with a mousse type cream with oatmeal and raspberry syrup through it. I feel the weight going on!!!
After dinner we head up to the Tattoo, along with 10 million other tourists and locals.
We walk up the Royal Mile – very very much uphill - and stand in a queue waiting for the gates to open. Coaches with the Tattoo participants go past us up to the castle and we all give a big wave and a rousing cheer. Programmes are ₤5.00 - got to have one. The show is starting at 9pm and they start to move us at ¼ past 8.
We have great seats right at the top of the grandstand and about half way along the esplanade. It is not cold – I have brought my dirty big coat, hat, gloves and scarf for nothing. There is a kindly little Asian lady beside me. She has a look of ‘I don’t know why I am here’. Here we go. The Official party comes in – looks like a highland bride and groom to me accompanied by other dignitaries. Is this some sort of highland tradition? If so – it is lost on me. The massed pipes come through the gateway of the castle and it is breathless.
Edinburgh Castle on dusk with pipers – brings a tear to the eyes. Some of the acts are just that – acts. Should be more traditional pipers and drummers etc – but we cheer everyone.
There is a precision US drill team and they are great. Deadly silence, except for the sound of their feet on the esplanade and the clacking of their guns as they swing them around all over the place. There is a group called The Swiss Army Secret Drum Corps. What can be secret about a drum corp? They are fabulous as well.
The Aussie participants get a rousing coo-ee from all us ‘Convicts’.
A great night – especially the lone piper. We all cross hands for the singing of Auld Lang Syne – I practically have to accost the little Asian lady to hold her hand – she wonders what I am doing and has a rather nervous smile on her face. But she gets into the mood of things and seems to have enjoyed the night. Fireworks overhead at the end. Loads and loads of photos – both cameras haven’t stopped. Between taking photos and watching the Tattoo I am feeling rather dizzy. Fight our way out through the crowds and back on the bus. Edinburgh is still full of people making merry but I am glad to get into bed and don’t surface until the wake up call.

DAY FOUR - - Saturday 2nd August
HIGHS & LOWS - Edinburgh sightseeing & overnight

Another hearty breakfast of bacon, tomatoes, mushrooms, fruit & yoghurt, toast with jam and coffee – and we are off on our bus tour. We have a change of driver and guide – Kenny and Paul are on a break. Our guide is really great. He comes from the ‘lowlands’ and is wearing tartan trousers. Apparently only highlanders ever wore kilts – as they were thought of as barbarians. We drive all over Edinburgh, and I can’t get over the fact that some parts of Edinburgh are flat (the new town) and some are really, really hilly (the old town). We arrive at Edinburgh Castle which is in of the old town and after a small talk we are left alone for an hour to do whatever we want.
So off I go again with the cameras. Considering it is still a working army barracks there is not a soldier to be seen – no matter. Go through the main entrance gate where there is a statue of Robert the Bruce on one side and William Wallace (pictured) on the other.
Decide to make for the top and then take my time walking back down. Lots of little narrow walkways and places with steep steps if you are that adventurous. I am not.
It sure is a climb and a half – but wonderful views when I get there.
There is a great big cannon called Mons Meg – a massive siege gun presented to King James II in 1457 and of course everyone wants their photo taken with it – until I yell enough is enough. I would like to take a photo please. Take the snap and the cannon is covered with tourists yet again.
It is a very compact castle. I see the Scottish Crown Jewels and also the Stone of Scone (pronounced skoon). Another little history lesson coming up - - this stone was used as a Coronation Seat for Scottish Monarchs and was stolen from the Scots by an English invader and put under the throne of all the British Monarchs. The stone was returned to Scotland in 1996. No photos in there for obvious reasons.
So much history and a sense of tradition and after walking, walking, walking all around the castle it is finally time to leave.
Back on the bus and heading for Edinburgh town.
We stop at Holyroodhouse Palace for a little walk around outside the main gates. We don’t go in but we can take photos – albeit from a distance.
We are dropped off in Edinburgh where we can roam around for about 5 hours when the bus will take us back to the Marriott. It is a shame that the hotel is so far out of town.
I have made a plan of what I want to see and I immediately get out the map and put it into action. Heading towards the little church where Greyfriar’s Bobby and his owner are buried – I promptly get lost. I decide discretion is the better part of valour and decide to ask directions – I was going in the wrong way wouldn’t you know it – the place is right at the other end of the town where I am.
So walking, walking down hill I arrive to find a little statue of Bobby outside a place called Greyfriars Bobby’s Bar. More photos.
The little church where they are buried is not far so I have a bit of a wander around there. Back towards Edinburgh centre I go and all uphill. The buildings are fabulous and the older ones are really grey / black. This is because of all the years of soot. Most of the streets are like little alleyways. The Edinburgh festival is on and there are loads of street performers. One particular interesting act was 3 girls dressed in white and laying on the ground head to foot in a circle. They didn’t make a sound.
And the meaning of this was ??????? Who knows. I also come across a girl dressed as a very big pink bird – lots of buskers, some good and some should have stayed at home. Grab something to eat and sit in the park near the Scott Monument.
What a lovely place – even though you have to walk down lots on stairs to get to the seats in the park and of course that means you have to walk back up. But never mind – the feet and legs are in shock anyway and I really have to try and compensate for those big breakfasts.
Off again – see St Giles Cathedral, Princes Street and do a little bit of shopping.
After spending a bit more money it is time to turn around and walk the other way - all the way up to the Nelson Column on Calton Hill. Yes, another hill!!!!
History lesson - Perched high on Calton Hill, at the east end of the city centre, is the monument to Admiral Lord Nelson's victory and death, at the battle of Trafalgar October 1805. The upturned telescope was designed by the architect Robert Burn, and built between 1807 and 1815. In 1852, a large time ball was introduced, which is lowered as the one o'clock gun is fired from Edinburgh castle each day.

Climb the 143 steps to see the tremendous views, framed by Fife to the north, the Forth estuary to the east, the Moorfoot hills to the south and the Forth Rail and Road Bridges to the west. – No thanks! I’ll take your word for it.
There is a really old cemetery a bit further on and you can get good views of the train yards and Arthur’s Seat.
Back to the hotel at 4pm to get ready for :

#2 OPTIONAL: Scottish Cabaret. - Cost ₤35.00
What a great night. The show is called ‘Jamie’s Scottish Evening’. Well worth the money. Place was the Thistle Hotel (formerly known as The King James)
Meal consists of –

Traditional Scotch Broth – Angus Beef and vegetables and Cranachan.

The Ceremony of the Haggis begins.
The piper comes first and the haggis arrives and is placed on the table. The show’s MC – Bill Torrance recites ‘The Address to the Haggis’ written by Robbie Burns before stabbing the ‘wee beastie’ and serving it up. We all get to taste it. Can’t come to Scotland and not do that – so I close my eyes and have a go. It tastes like gluey spicey mince. But that taste is forgotten after a glass or two of wine – which comes with the dinner.

The show is great. The accordionist is a fellow named Jimmy and he has a kilt on. Bill looks at Jimmy – looks at me and looks at Jimmy again and then stops the show. He tells Jimmy to put his knees together but I say that’s OK – leave him alone and then it’s on from there. We laugh and chuckle all night and I end up singing a chorus of – ‘Daisy, Daisy give me you answer do’. Isn’t it amazing what wine can do????
There is a highland dancer and he is Japanese.
More chuckling and we realise that he is really good. Anyway, we have a fabulous night – well fed and watered - I am glad to get into bed.

DAY FIVE - - Sunday 3rd August
WE GO FORTH BY FIRTH – Edinburgh to Newtonmore

After a very comfortable night in my nice big bed - an early start to the day – the customary ‘Waltz of the Bags’ outside the hotel room by 7am and we head for breakfast. Yet another hearty meal of bacon, tomatoes, mushrooms etc etc. and we get on the coach and head north towards the highlands. After crossing the Firth of Forth heading east we stop at St. Andrews Cathedral.
We get to walk around the ruins and have a really good look. What a great place – very old, very large, very interesting and it is set right by the sea on the East coast.
We get back on the coach and head off for St. Andrews town for the usual pit stop and morning tea.
We park just near the St. Andrews Golf Course and no – they don’t provide the morning tea – if we want it we have to buy it at one of the local shops. Pretty setting but I am not a golf fanatic.
I don’t want anything to eat – so I take a little walk down the 1st fairway (just so that I can say I walked St Andrews) - and then I head off for St Andrews Castle.
Do not have time to pay and go inside but I take lots of photos from outside. This castle is right on the sea as well. The sea is really flat but I suppose it can get really stormy at times. There is an aquarium right next to the castle.
On the coach and heading north we go through Dundee, turning south west to Perth and then north for the highlands. Weather is still holding. Very mountainous countryside and the heather is starting to come into bloom. Pretty pinks and mauves. Incredible scenery and I feel strangely drawn to this place.
I don’t know why as there is no Scottish ancestry in my family. Well, not that I know of. Paul says that in another month the heather will be in full bloom – but never mind – it’s pretty now. I keep humming tunes from Brigadoon - The Heather on the Hill etc.

We stop at the Caithness Glass Factory for lunch – a cafeteria type place – and we get to look around. They specialise in paper weights – there are some lovely ones - but my luggage is getting heavy what with me buying a book from every place we visit so I decide against adding to the weight. We go past Blair Athol and Killiecrankie where ‘Bonnie Dundee’ met his end. Who is Bonnie Dundee? His name was John Graham and he was a Jacobite Commander. So????? Our journey continues.

We have two optionals today – the first being:

#3 OPTIONAL: Blair Castle - Cost ₤10.50.
Just a little bit out of Blair Atholl and what a picturesque place. Piper out the front to welcome all the tourists. This is the ancient home of the Dukes of Athol. Lots of very old highland traditions here. We get a tour round the place and then let loose to go adventuring over the grounds. Lots of little babbling brooks and I even get a glimpse of the deer in the grounds. More photos. More books. Getting late in the afternoon but we are on our way to:

#4 OPTIONAL: A highland sheep farm visit - Cost ₤9.00.
Now you might say what would an Aussie girl want to see sheep and sheepdogs for? Who knows but I am not going to miss a thing. The farm is owned by Neil Ross and he shows us how to work up to 9 sheepdogs at once.

There are some little puppies that I just have to cuddle and one of the people in the group step on one – the puppy is not hurt but I would have liked to step on the oaf with the big
feet. We get a shearing demonstration and then it is getting late so back on the bus and head for our overnight hotel at Newtonmore – THE HIGHLANDER. Dying for a hot shower – no bath here - and the hot water doesn’t arrive after running the taps for 5 minutes So back on go the clothes and I head off for reception to lodge a complaint. The reason – it takes a while for the hot water to go through the pipes and you must have been the first person who wanted to take a shower - just go back and let the tap run for a while. Are they kidding????? NO!!!!!! Back to the room – 10 minutes of running water later and I have a hot shower.

Off to the promised traditional Highland Dinner which is in the Hotel– not a patch on the one in Edinburgh.

A nice hearty dinner consisting of:
The Laird’s Pot – Vegetable soup and Highland Herbs
Fresh local Trout Fillet, grilled and served with a light Tarragon Sauce
Fresh fruit Salad and Coffee.

The guy playing the accordion looks like a real grump - doesn’t smile and the piper is a bit scratchy. Sounds like someone stepping on a cat’s tail.
The Haggis comes out for the Ceremony and it is dressed up to look like I don’t know what. Not much happening here so an early night.

DAY SIX - - Monday 4th August
PREHISTORY AND LOSS OF LIFE – Newtonmore to Thurso

Another fine day has dawned – I am up early. Suitcase out the front and I head off to take some early morning photos. Have been told that the series ‘Monarch of the Glen’ is filmed around here but I don’t have enough time to go exploring that far.
Breakfast – the usual big one – I am not losing any weight. Just as well I am walking as much as I am.

A long drive – we pass the Spey Valley and stop at the Balnuran of Clava – near Inverness.
A lot of prehistoric cairns and stone circles that are thought to be a burial site.
Very interesting and incredible place.
We then head off to Culloden just south of Inverness. It is eerie to think that I am standing where a great battle was once fought and where so many people died. It is set out with markers to show where the armies of both Bonnie Prince Charlie (Jacobites) and the Duke of Cumberland (Government) were positioned during the fighting. The battlefield is now covered in heather (I pick just a little sprig to take home) and a light breeze blows the flags of both sides.
If you listen very carefully and use your imagination you can hear the fighting and the sound of bagpipes.
It is a very moving place. Following the trail around the site you see where the fallen members of clans are buried. There are stone cairns to mark the spot for each clan.
We spend quite a bit of time here and then head off. Stopping at Loch Ness to do a bit of Nessie spotting – we are in luck. We see her!!! She is in the front of the photo!! The loch is so huge. More photos.
Back on the coach and off to Inverness. Paul gives us a little talk we are again left to our own devices. This is a lunch stop so I head for McDonalds (they are everywhere) – very adventurous - and then I find a quite place to eat. All of a sudden I am surrounded by these bloody seagulls the size of vultures. Huge birds with equally large appetites. I decide to let them have my chips and I bid a hasty retreat while the going is good.
I visit Inverness Castle and take more photos. There is a statue of Flora McDonald out the front. Flora is the lady who helped Bonnie Prince Charlie escape after the bungle at Culloden. A Kodak moment that is spoilt or enhanced – whichever way you look at it by – you guessed it – one of those mongrel seagulls perching on her head at the appropriate time.
Back on the coach and off to Thurso. Wonderful views of the Pentland Firth. A long drive that is highlighted by certain members of our team wanting unplanned pit-stops. As we go along we see oil rigs. Arrive at Thurso on the top north coast of Scotland – doesn’t look very interesting – a bit bleak but maybe after a bit of discovery who knows???? Hotel is the HOTEL ROYAL. The coach parks in the main street right out front of the hotel which has a small entrance door. We stay here for two nights and dinner is included so I don’t have to worry. Comfortable beds, the food and service are good.

DAY SEVEN - - Tuesday 5th August
ORK’S IN THE MIST - - Orkney Island Excursion – Thurso overnight

Day dawns – another restful night of sleep – maybe it has something to do with being dog tired. Usual thumping breakfast and we head off for our day on the Orkney Islands.
Really foggy on the way – can hardly see the road. I hope that Kenny knows where he’s going cause it could be a pretty short trip !!!!
Arrive at John O’Groats – the most northerly place on the Scottish mainland - in one piece.
Board the ferry and set sail – into the mist and most probably disappear forever!!! I tell myself – the earth is round not flat. Cannot see a thing. Am sitting outside in the fog with my big jacket on – and actually it is very refreshing. I take some more photos of the fog and mist. Why? Because it is there, that’s why.
We are told that because of the extremely unusual warm weather and one of the hottest summers on record the fog and mists roll in. This is about the 50th time we have heard that. I am glad that everyone has got their stories right. This is going to be one exciting day. Arrive at Orkney – still can’t see a thing. Things had better improve I say to myself. We see a Salmon farm out in the mist.
Our guide on the bus is a local and he tells as tales of Scapa Flow and how the German High Seas Fleet was scuttled there by the German Admiral during the Second World War. I take more photos of things I can hardly see.
Let’s just face it – I am a photo addict. We visit the Italian Chapel that was built by Italian Prisoners of War during WWII. Very pretty. We head off for morning tea at a quaint little place that also has a fossil museum. Very interesting. Back on the bus – more touring around and then it is time for lunch at a really picturesque little pub. I decide to have the Crumbed and Lightly Fried Pepper Rings. Sounds interesting to say the least. Turns out to be what us Aussies call capsicum slices, crumbed and deep fried. Yummo. A nice little side salad and that should keep me going for a while.
The fog and mist have lifted and the day is heating up. After lunch – we see the standing stones of Stenness. A couple of large pre-historic monolithic stones just standing around doing nothing except look formidable.
Then we stop at the Ring of Brogar.
More prehistoric standing stones but this time they are in a circle. This is a ritual and funerary complex dating back about 3000 years BC. There is a walkway around the stones and I get some good photos.
I lay down and take some photos of the heather, bluebells and some pretty yellow flowers with the stones blurred in the background. People have stopped looking at me as a photographic idiot long before now – it is I who gets the good shots. HA!
Next stop – Skara Brae. A prehistoric village. Very interesting and you can even walk down into one of the little places where people used to live. Certainly would have to get on with each other in these places. Very small and cramped for space.
After thousands of years these places are now covered with earth but excavation is impossible because they might collapse. Anyway you can still see a lot and after seeing as much as I could I walk down to the beach – no – the surf is definitely not up. I just want to walk along and get sand between my toes and relax.
Next stop Kirkwall.
See the Earls Palace built in 1600; Bishops Palace built around 12th century; St. Magnus Cathedral which was founded in 1137.
I have to do a little bit of shopping – disaster has struck and I have run out of shampoo. I also buy some afternoon tea and an ice cream cone that proceeds to run down my arm faster than I can eat it. Back on the bus and heading for our ferry back to Thurso. The driver tells us to look out the window and we will see some highland cattle. These are cattle with big horns and long fringes over their eyes. Wouldn’t you know it – they are on the other side of the bus and I miss the photo. No matter. Back on the boat and still can’t see a thing – we could end up back in Australia for all I know.

DAY EIGHT – Wednesday 6th August
OVER THE SEA TO SKYE – Thurso to Isle of Skye

Morning has come and the misty fog is still here. Let’s hope that the day clears up. Take a little walk around Thurso and then breakfast of the usual fare and on the coach we go. We are heading off to the Isle of Skye today. Farewell to Thurso heading south, we retrace our steps down to Dornoch and then head west to Ledmore and South to Ullapool. As we go along we see lots more lochs and mountains.
We arrive at Ullapool - a fishing village on the West coast of Scotland. Very picturesque place with its white buildings and grey roofs so take lots more photos.
We end up here for lunch so I find a little sandwich shop and get something to eat and drink and sit down on the pier. Very relaxing. It’s a time to reflect on what has gone on before and what is still ahead of me. Buy a couple of souvenirs.
On the coach again and - -we pass through more of the spectacular the highland countryside – lots of heather, lochs and Kodak moments.
We arrive at Kyle of Lochalsh. There is a bridge that goes over to the Isle of Skye.
We get a chance to stretch our legs (take more photos) and then it’s back on the coach.
We arrive and the place is jumping. Paul has told us that today is the busiest day of the year on Skye. The Skye Highland games are on but apparently today was the last day. I check into my room – very interesting. We have been forewarned to pack what we need for overnight into our small bags as the hotel is really small and we cannot take our big suitcase.
Right about that - tiny, tiny hotel in Portree – THE TONGADALE – have to go through the dining area to get to our rooms. The key to my room is on a dirty big 12 inch bit of wood. Now that’s a keyring!!! My room is up the narrow staircase, at the front of the hotel and above the bar – hmmmmm.
After settling in - I walk up to the area where the games are and there are still lots of people. Strange – Aussies have taken out the major prizes in the hammer throw and the caber tossing. Wish we were there earlier in the day. Back to the main part of town and look around - I want to buy a ring – so I hunt out a jewellers and find exactly what I want. Bit more spending going on!!!! The ring costs ₤100 but hey, you can’t take it with you. Anyway I beat the saleslady down to ₤90 – so a tell myself it’s a bargain to boot. Am told that the ring is handmade by a Scot on the east coast of Scotland. I am also told that there is to be a street march by pipers later on and they go right by our hotel which means right by my room. A good Kodak moment coming up I think. Dinner is a bit early tonight because we are going on another optional.
Am sitting with a lady who is complaining about her room mate and tells me about the wonderful jewellery she has bought. Ho hum!!!!
I have Seafood Mousse served on an Oatmeal Cake, Roast Pork and Veggies and something called Clootie. Like plum pudding and custard. No sooner finish dinner than I hear the sound of bagpipes. The march has started so race up the stairs – grab the cameras and hang out the window – but I am too late. They must have thought the British were coming and have taken off at a trot. So race back down the stairs to the square where they have assembled to march some more.
There is a local fair tonight and the pipers are a local group. They are pretty good. We stay and listen for a while and then we set off for our next optional –

#5 OPTIONAL: Drive around the Isle of Skye. Cost ₤10.00.

The bus heads off for our tour with a local guide.
Surprise, surprise – after a clear day the mist has rolled in. You can hardly see a thing but it clears every now and again for our Kodak moments. We pass the Cuillin hills and see (?) The Old Man of Stor. Some dirty big mountain. We see Flora McDonalds (remember her from Inverness) grave and we listen to her story, Our guide is very informative and funny. He said it is usually clear but due to the hot summer etc – yeah I heard it all before.
We see the sunset about 10pm – some more photos - and we head back to our hotel.

The joint is jumping and I have to fight my way through the crowd to get my key. I now realise why it’s on the dirty big bit of wood. I need it to fight and clear a path up the stairway. I am glad to finally reach my room and get into bed, which promptly sinks in the middle so that my feet and head are about 12 inches higher than my backside which is about 3 inches off the floor. I get the giggles and can’t stop laughing – I also can’t get out of the bed. This is going to be an interesting night – but I fall asleep listening to the bagpipes.

DAY NINE - - Thursday 7th August
BYE SKYE - Isle of Skye to Glasgow

After a night in sleepy hollow, but none the worse for wear - I have a hearty breakfast of the usual and head off. The mist and fog are still with us but hopefully it will clear. Back over the bridge and heading south-east we get to stop at the Eilean Donan Castle which apparently is the most photographed castle in Scotland. Really pretty and the extra mist on the mountains gives it a very spooky look, especially when you get the reflections of the castle in the loch. Not one to argue with reality I take lots of photos.
Off again and we see a group of pipers on the roadside with the mountains in the background. Definitely one for the tourists - now that would make a good photo but we drive right past. Bummer!!!!!!!!

West to Invergarry and then south. We stop near Glencoe to see the Memorial to the Highland Commandos. This place is way out in the middle of nowhere and from here we see the highest mountain in Scotland – Ben Nevis. Back on the coach and on to our lunch stop at a place called ‘The Green Welly’. A cafeteria come petrol station come whatever.
I buy a postcard of some Highland Cattle seeing I missed the photo. Nice food and I am lucky enough to spot some Amaretto Fudge. Can you believe it????? It is pink (??) and I have a sample taste. It does taste a bit like Amaretto so I buy a decent slab to stow on the coach and enjoy as we travel along. After lunch of a sandwich, bottle of Coke and an ice cream we head off to the ‘Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond ‘ for our optional cruise.

#6 OPTIONAL: Loch Lomond Cruise – Cost ₤9.00.

The loch is shrouded in mist but not enough to spoil some good photos. Bit of a breeze and the mist clears. We see a little island where, so they say – is where they used to put newly married couples to spend the night; Rob Roy’s Cave – is it really – or just a tourist trap? Someone has painted a sign that says ‘CAVE’.

The cruise is relaxing. Nice scenery and the water is soothing as it laps the sides of the boat. I am humming ‘By yon Bonnie Banks etc’ and getting strange looks. So what’s new?

Back on dry land and we start our journey to Glasgow. Nice countryside – lots of ruined castles, churches and abbeys. Get some photos as we travel along.
We arrive at our hotel for the night in Glasgow – HOLIDAY INN CITY WEST – and what a dump. Grubby curtains that are nearly falling down and dirty floor, but at least the bed and bathroom are clean. We are advised that this part of town is ‘not nice to go wandering’. Great. So why on earth did we stay here I wonder???

After waiting 35 minutes for my suitcase - I have no time for a relaxing bath so a quick shower has to do. Race back downstairs for the next optional.

#7 OPTIONAL: Dinner at The Fox and Hounds – Cost ₤24.00.

This is a really old pub – about 1642 or 1742 – can’t remember which. It has its own brewery.
The meal was:
Homemade soup – I think it was Scotch Broth – with garlic bread;
Home cooked ham salad (I think they mean the Ham was home cooked) with new potatoes and crusty bread;
Warm Clootie dumpling with sweet brandy custard.

Not bad but I get the feeling we are being overcharged a bit. Back on the coach and head for home and bed. A bit tired – is it the travelling or the glass or two or three of wine???

DAY 10 - - Friday 8th August
CRUISING OVER THE IRISH SEA - Glasgow to Londonderry

Our last day in Scotland. Weather is fine but yep, there’s that mist again. Wonder if I will be able to see the sea on our way to Northern Ireland. We bid farewell to Glasgow and head off to the ferry – which turns out to be the size of the QE 2.
Definitely not a ferry as I know it.
We have to go through customs and they pick a couple of people on the bus who have to get their suitcase out and open in – but I am not called upon. We drive onto the ferry and then have to get off the coach and go upstairs. About 3 stories upstairs!!!! I am lucky and grab a seat right at the front. But it is too closed in for me and I want to do more than just sit there so I go for a wander around the deck outside. I feel a real twinge leaving Scotland – it is a fabulous place.
The itinerary says ‘we sail from the Ayrshire Coast and see the Island of Aran’. Well, I’ll have to take their word for it that the Island is out there somewhere. We disappear into the fog and sail west across the Irish Sea. Am told that the Mull of Kintyre is to our north. Remember the words ‘Mull of Kintyre, the mists rolling in from the sea’ – well at least Paul McCartney got that right. Our first glimpse of Ireland is shrouded in mist – but doesn’t matter. We dock at Larne and get back on the coach. We get some good views of the Antrim coast as we travel along. The day is getting better and the mist is lifting.
We arrive at the Giant’s Causeway.
Really weird and wonderful basalt columns that have been formed a long, long time ago. Full of Irish myth and legends. The coach stops up the top of the hill and we can either walk down or catch a little shuttle bus. I opt for the walk and head off!!!
The road down is very steep and by the time I get to the bottom my legs are a bit sore. The day has turned out hot and after walking around and taking more photos I think the shuttle bus back up is a good idea. I get to have a bit of lunch – sandwiches and coke – and wander around to take a few more photos. It is really hot now – must be about 30 degrees. It’s just like home. There is a scenic walkway right around the place but I decide against it. I just take more photos.

Leaving the Causeway we head south west to Londonderry.
Our hotel for tonight is THE EVERGLADES. Looks nice and comfy – so here’s hoping.
Our dinner is included tonight:
Honeydew Melon served with Fruit Coulis;
Roast Leg of Lamb served with Mint Sauce, potatoes and vegetables;
Traditional Sherry Trifle and Coffee.

Not bad. After dinner I head to my room to catch up on what I have been doing, look at some of the books I have bought and watch a bit of TV and find out what has been going on for the past 13 days. Early night.

DAY ELEVEN - - Saturday 9th August
LONDONDERRY AIR – Londonderry to Bundoran

Another big brekky and we head off for our guided tour of Londonderry or just Derry. We see where lots of violence has happened over the years – what a waste of life.
The police stations are all covered in barbed wire, surveillance cameras and armaments. How can people live like this??? We pass the sight of where a recent car bombing has taken place and there is a news crew doing a story. That night - our big black coach makes the news – only because we were passing by and got in the film. We are celebrities!

We are in Derry for the Annual Apprentice Day March. Over the years this March has been at the centre of many riots but recently things have changed for the better so let’s hope it stays that way. The police presence is incredible. We have the chance to speak with a few of the police and marchers and lots of photos later we walk along the Walls of Derry.
The main March is due to start and we get to see lots of the guys from the outskirts marching to join it. They have lots of banners and are wearing identifying sashes over their shoulders. We see the St Columbus Cathedral and the Guildhall and then it’s time for lunch. We can walk around a bit and I head off to the local shopping mall.

I buy some postcards and some lunch and then it’s back aboard our coach and head off for Enniskillen on Lough Erne for our highlight cruise.
Still misty weather but a relaxing cruise sees us arrive at Devenish Island.
Some ancient buildings - St Molaise’s House (circa 12th century) Teampull Mor or Lower Church (circa 1255); St Marys Priory or The Abbey (circa 15th century); Round Tower (circa 9th century) where you can climb 81 feet to the top – no thanks. Some good photo opportunities.
Cruise back to the coach and head toward Bundoran in County Donegal for a 2 night stay. Our hotel is ALLINGHAM ARMS HOTEL – right on the water. There is a long walkway across the road and right along the coast. Sounds interesting – but I’ll just wait and hear about it from the brave few who did it.

#8 OPTIONAL: Dinner at the Pier Head Hotel – Cost ₤27.00.

Heading off for dinner we pass Lord Mountbatten’s home. The pub is right on the water and the meal from what I remember is nice. After dinner I walk out onto the seawall. It is late – about 10.30pm and still the sun has not set.

DAY TWELVE - - Sunday 10th August
FISHES AND CASTLES – Donegal Excursion

Up early – good breakfast – and looking forward to our excursion. We pass Ballyshannon, Donegal and stop at Ardara to see a handloom demonstration (can do without that) but there is a shop so I look around for another ring – I spy an Irish Claddagh ring with an emerald – cost €79.00. Enough spending.

South to Killybegs. A large fishing port with even larger fishing vessels. They resemble the size of the ferry that brought us over. Monstrous beasts that sail the seas in all kinds of weather.
We are told that today is not a working day but when the boats are working the smell of fish is strong enough to take your breath away. I’m glad they are not working. Walk around take some photos of the boats and back on the coach and off to Donegal. Good views of the ruins of O’Donnell Castle. We don’t go in – just stand on the roadside and take photos. OK.

Not much happening today – bit of a rest time to catch our breath. Am glad to get back to the Hotel.

DAY THIRTEEN - - Monday 11th August
RELIGIOUS VISIONS & GALWAY BAY - Bundoran to County Clare

An early farewell to our hotel and we are off again!!! Heading south we drive through Sligo and some lovely countryside on our way and enjoy a morning stop at a church where apparently a vision of the Virgin Mary was seen. There is a lot of typically touristy things – like plastic Holy Water bottles with screw top heads of Mary (ugh) and memorial plaques that you can take away and put on your loved ones grave (double ugh).
After this we head on into Galway. A really nice town. Hum a couple of lines of ‘Galway Bay’ see Eyre Square, St Nicholas Cathedral. Grab something to eat and sit in the square. Lots of people around – a warm summer’s day.
This afternoon the itinerary goes out the window. We are to visit Bunratty Folk Park today and not tomorrow. The place is a re-built village of saved buildings that would have otherwise been destroyed. A castle, houses, shops, church, mill-house etc. Really interesting and well cared for.
An hour or two here and then back on the coach.
We arrive at tonight’s hotel - CLARE INN.
A hotel right out of the way that has a pub attached to it called ‘The Poacher’s Pub’. Things are looking up.
Kenny tells us the tale of the ‘Fairy Tree’ that is in the vicinity. Apparently The Fairy Tree is a meeting place for fairies and when the road was being upgraded the tree was in the way – so instead of chopping it out – they built the road around it. Cute story – the place also has a golf course.

Dinner is included tonight –
Chilled Fantail of Melon with a duo of Fruit Coulis;
Dressed Supreme of Chicken glazed with a Garlic and Herb Butter;
Tiramisu and Coffee.

A couple of Bacardi Breezers later and it is time to sleep.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Lozfromoz,

CLOSELY FOLLOWED BY DAYS 14 - 22 :

DAY FOURTEEN - - Tuesday 12th August
KERRY’S RING AROUND KILLARNEY - County Clare to Killarney

Another scrumptious breakfast and we continue south through Limerick. Lovely countryside, very picturesque. Everything is green – because they get plenty of rain – but not on this tour. Paul tells us that we have turned the tour around and doing the Ring of Kerry today instead of tomorrow and that we will go in the reverse direction.
Well sounds typically Irish to me – but what the – we are in Ireland after all.
We stop at The Red Fox Inn at Glenbeigh and enjoy a traditional Irish Coffee. Early heart starter. A very quaint little pub – with a stuffed red fox in a display cabinet. Sounds a bit off – but it isn’t. Back on the coach and we pass by a rather odd memorial to four monks who came to Ireland in a wooden boat. Snapshot out the window.
Good grief - I’ll take a photo of anything!
Leg stretch time at Waterville. Interesting place – apparently lots of Hollywood Stars used to come here and there is a statue of Charlie Chaplin opposite it – near the water. The rest of the group have their photo taken with Charlie – but I say no thank you and move on.
Back on the coach and we see some standing stone monoliths. Apparently there are quite a few around here. More Ring of Kerry and even more photos later we arrive in Sneem for our lunch - -

#9 OPTIONAL: Lunch in a real Irish home – Cost ₤6.00.

Place is called Bank House in a little town called Sneem. Sandwiches and home made scones. Very small place and we are crowded in to one room. Glad we all practice clean living!!! The lunch is nice and filling and then a quick walk around the little town.
A rather nasty walking bridge made of a weld-mesh type steel over a rocky river – don’t look down – stop and take a photo and quickly over the other side. Only trouble is I have to get back over it!!! Quaint little shops.
More Ring of Kerry – more photos and we arrive in Killarney for our included extra of a ride in ‘one of the famous jaunting cars’.

I’ve seen The Quiet Man with John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara and this don’t look like no jaunting car. It’s more of a carriage and holds 9 of us including the driver – Terry Cummins. A real smooth Irishman with lovely blue eyes. The horse is called Steptoe.
We drive around Killarney and through the grounds of Muckross castle that also has ruins of an old castle - before coming to a stop back in the town. A photo of the group is taken mid ride and we get to purchase it for ₤5.00. I decide to buy it. That night we spend at the EVISTON HOUSE HOTEL instead of the Killarney Heights. Don’t know why the change but I am glad it was. The Eviston has a fabulous bar – The Danny Mann and they have a show on tonight. The hotel is right in the heart of town so a minor shopping spree occurs before heading to my room to shower and then have dinner.
The Irish Weavers are the performers in The Danny Mann and are belting it out. A few of us decide to go and watch. Have a great time – and surprise – take some photos.


DAY FIFTEEN - - Wednesday 13th August
BLARNEY & LEPRECHAUNS – Killarney to Waterford

Our usual 7am suitcase samba – usual dirty big breakfast – usual departure.
Heading east – we visit Blarney Castle – 9km NW of Cork. Originally built as a timber hunting lodge in the 10th century it was replaced by a stone castle in 1210. Lots of interesting ruins, lots of stairs and not so lots of tourists which is great.
Wandering around and around the grounds, in and out of everything. Buildings have tiny narrow stairs so I’ve got to watch out. Decide to go up and see the Blarney Stone – maybe a kiss to acquire the ‘gift of the gab’ – but then I see it and think no thank you. It is a grubby looking rock that you have to lie down on your back, bend your head over backwards, hold onto these railings and kiss it upside down. The guy that helps everyone down and then back up again wipes the stone every now and again – that is enough for me.
I stand in line – I’ll help you kiss the stone says he - no thank you says I – I’ll just take a photo and go!!!! The views are fabulous from up here so take some more photos. Wandering around the grounds there is a lot of little nooks and crannies through the woods to explore and I reckon I did see a leprechaun or two. And no, I haven’t had a drink today!!!!

After a couple of hours here it is time to go – heading for Waterford. More lovely countryside and we get into Waterford about 3pm. We book into our Waterford accommodation for the night – DOOLEYS HOTEL and have time for a quick bit of relaxation. Go downstairs and join the group for -

#10 OPTIONAL: Waterford Walking Tour - Cost ₤14.00

The local guide is great – a real sense of humour and he knows his history of the place as well. We walk around Waterford – see old buildings, ruins, the Port Authority building and lots of interesting things and end up – surprise surprise – at the pub.
It is really old – T & H Doolans and it is called a Tavern – sorry. Licensed for over 300 years and the wall in the lounge was built over 800 years ago by the Normans. We get a complimentary drink – (I am sure that it was covered in the cost of the tour) and then we can make our own way back to the Hotel which is not far.

DAY SIXTEEN - - Thursday 14th August
CRYSTALS, COCKLES & MUSSELS- Waterford to Dublin

Morning is bright with clear blue skies so decide to go for an early morning walk down the main street. There is a marina of some description on the other side of the street and I head for that until I see that there is a rather nasty looking gentleman sleeping it off on one of the benches. As I approach he wakes up and starts to talk. Quick diversion back to the other side of the road and hurriedly turn left. I find a rather interesting stone tower. More photos.
Back for breakfast and our coach awaits. We arrive at the Waterford Crystal Showroom. Very interesting crystal objects – just a little spending spree this time – under the Wedgwood principal – you got to have Waterford Crystal from Waterford - and I am careful not to knock anything over. The Waterford Crystal chandeliers are something to see and also too big to buy and pack in my bag.

On to Kilkenny to see the castle and grab some lunch. Wander around the streets of Kilkenny for a bit and there are a few local fruit stalls. Buy some fruit and stuff and then head off to Kilkenny Castle.
You can buy a ticket and go inside to have a look around but I think – no I’m castled out at the moment. So I sit on the lawn under a tree and eat. There is a display of recyclable figures made out of cans and junk that represent I don’t know what.
They have been positioned right at the front of the castle – that’s a good thing – NOT!!!
Apparently they are coming down under to Alice Springs – (there must be a reason for that). Anyway the grounds are nice – the sky is bright blue – and the day is hot!!! Leaving Kilkenny we head north east to Dublin for our 2 night stay at the CAMDEN COURT HOTEL.

Comfortable and clean and just have time for a bath and a quick bit of TV to catch up on the news. Decide to head downstairs to the bar (and the Bacardi Breezers) with some of the group before we head off for –

#11 OPTIONAL: Dinner at Irish Pub - Cost ₤27.00

Now this is billed as an old pub (circa 1770) WITH ENTERTAINERS. Two guys – one on a guitar and one on a fiddle do not constitute entertainers for my mind. They play a couple of tunes and are gone. The meal is OK –I can’t remember what it was - the area is lousy – no where to walk around. The pub overlooks the water – flat as a tack – and the railroad. Very overpriced for what I got – but still - - -

Coach back to the hotel and the comfort of my room.

DAY SEVENTEEN - - Friday 15th August
CASTLES & MOLLY MALONE - Dublin sightseeing

A tour with a local guide – we get to see all over Dublin – the Irish President’s House, and Georgian Square with ornate doorways, Customs House and O’Connell Street with the Penny Bridge. Apparently in earlier days you had to pay a penny to go over the bridge. Our tour includes a visit to Dublin Castle. There is a sand modelling display right in the middle of the castle. Must have some significance but I don’t know what it is. The rooms in the castle are wonderful and really ornate. There is a Gainsborough painting which we are told we can’t photograph – there are cameras all around – but we can take photos anywhere else. So I do .
We leave the Castle and can wander around Dublin by ourselves for the afternoon. I see the statue of Molly Malone with at least 50 kids climbing all over her. No Kodak moment here so I buy a postcard. Next best thing. Getting a bit peckish so a bit of lunch at Subway – bit more shopping and back to the hotel. Don’t have to worry about dinner – because - - -

#12 OPTIONAL: Dublin Irish Cabaret. Cost ₤43.50

Touristy show in a big auditorium at Jury’s Hotel. Called ‘The Burlington Traditional Irish Cabaret of 2003’. It’s a bit like a third rate Lord of the Dance with a comedian and singers.

In my opinion - overpriced, overpacked and over-rated.

Dinner was:
Cream of Fresh Vegetable Soup with pouring cream and chopped Parsley;
Herb Crusted Prime Irish Beef with Red Wine Sauce, Pearl Onions, Wild Mushrooms and Green Peppercorns; Vegetables tossed in Almond Butter;
Fitzwilliam Chantilly served with Dark Caramel Sauce and Traditional Irish Coffee with Double Cream.

I must admit the food was great – pity about the show. Maybe if we weren’t crammed in like sardines – there must have been at least 500 in the place. Oh well – can’t have everything – and I suppose I did have a good time – though not great.

DAY EIGHTEEN - - Saturday 16th August
I’LL BE HERE IN SUNSHINE OR IN SHADOW - Dublin to Chester

Leaving Ireland -back across the Irish Sea on a boat named Ulysses. This thing is bigger than the first one that took us to Ireland!!!! Same story - drive on in the coach – get off the coach –go up the lifts to the decks – the mist and fog are back so time to have some lunch, a drink or two and some more shopping.
No photos on this journey. Go down the lifts – get into the coach and off we go. We land in Holyhead in North Wales and make our way through the Welsh countryside.
We sort of stop at the place in Wales with the longest name – we don’t get off the coach – we just get to take a photo of the name – if we are lucky enough to be on the right side of the bus and have cameras in our hot little hands – which I am and do -

LLANFAIRPWLLLGWYNGYLLGOGERYCHWYRNDROBWLLLLANTYSILIOGOGOGOCH - - which of course everyone knows means – ‘St Mary’s Church in the Hollow of the White Hazel near to the Rapid Whirlpool of Llantysilio of the Red Cave’.

Am glad I have my Advantix camera so that I can take a landscape photo of that one.
Some people miss out but too bad we are on our way again. A few groans and grumbles. We pass houses on little islands and lots of interesting things but I cannot remember the names of them – I just take photos.
We arrive back in England at Chester – what a great place.
Very Elizabethan with its Tudor Rows and split timber decorations.
Paul gives us a little tour and afterwards we are left to roam by ourselves. I once again take off to see as much as I can and take some more photos. I try some Chester Cheese – bit strong – and walk around the walls of Chester to see the Roman Amphitheatre and the sandstone Cathedral. The town is packed – but down near the river it is nice and quiet.

We leave Chester City for our overnight hotel – HOLIDAY INN SOUTH. Right out of town so it’s no going back if you miss anything. Dinner is provided tonight. I cannot remember what it was. By this time I have stopped writing in my journal. Bummer.

DAY NINETEEN - - Sunday 17th August
CHEESES AND LEEKS - Chester to Cardiff

We head toward Ludlow in Shropshire.
Lovely little town with a very ancient castle which now lays in ruins. There is a market in the square and the buildings are a little bit like Chester with the split timbers.
I make the most of my time and make a dash for Ludlow Castle – entry fee ₤3.50.
Construction of the castle began in the late 11th Century. Climbing to the top of the tower - negotiate the really narrow staircase and you get a great view. Lots of photos – the skies are clear and a great view of the town and marketplace.
We cross back into Wales at Monmouth and go through the Wye Valley where we stop at Tintern Abbey which is about 4km north of Chepstow. Founded in 1131 it is now one of the greatest monastic ruins in Wales. Buildings were added until its dissolution by Henry VIII in 1536. We don’t go in but I can still take lots of photos from the streets. Very eerie feeling about this place. It’s strange that when you are near these type of places – everyone talks in hushed tones.
Our hotel for the night in Cardiff is THE HANOVER INTERNATIONAL. Very nice and clean and comfy beds and the bathroom has a big bath. WOW!!

Am just relaxing on the bed in my undies (because it is summer and hot remember) when some family comes trekking through the door. Hello – and a quick grab for anything to cover up. Apparently the hotel computers went down and when this family checked in they gave them my room number. The family is very apologetic and embarrassed (aren’t we all) and I am not too happy with that let me tell you – so after I recover from the shock, I head down to reception and give them a mouthful. Apologies, apologies. I think the family got a bigger shock than me. Anyway it’s time for –


#13 OPTIONAL: Welsh Musical Evening and Dinner - Cost ₤32.50

Hidden away down some very interesting narrow laneways and roads that are just wide enough for the coach is the oldest house in Wales – Kemeys Manor. A lovely old house built in 1091. It is privately owned and we have a little guided tour by the owner around the grounds before going in. The staff – 3 ladies - who are serving us are all singers and they have fabulous voices.
There is a man playing the harp and he is great – photo time! We have a really nice traditional Welsh meal together with fine wine, enjoy some wonderful stirring Welsh singing and have a wander around the inside of the house. What a great night. Even though I think it is a bit overpriced (I can’t help converting back to Aussie Dollars) – if the money goes toward keeping the house in this condition I am happy to pay it. I also buy the CD of them singing – just can’t help being a tourist of the First Degree.
We leave the house and head back down the narrow lanes which are pitch black at this stage. Kenny does a fabulous job of driving – he is a real hoot.


DAY TWENTY - - Monday 18th August
WELSH PILGRIMS AND THE ROCK - Cardiff to Plymouth

After leaving the hotel – where I give them some more rather curt comments about my visitors from yesterday (sorry, sorry) and we are off to enjoy -

#14 OPTIONAL: Cardiff Castle Tour - Cost ₤10.00
It’s a little showery – but not heavy enough for raincoats and umbrellas, which is good because my umbrella is packed in my suitcase. It doesn’t dampen our spirits and we enjoy our guided tour of this ornate and rather overly decorated masterpiece.
The rooms are fabulous, the grounds are great and there is a family of peacocks wandering around. I am adventurous yet again and climb to the top of the Norman Keep to get some great views and great photos.
There are some ancient Roman walls around the castle so we go down into the dark to have a look at them. Across the road to the shops and back to the coach but I notice that there are carved animals all along the castle wall. So off I go again dashing around like a mad woman taking more photos, everyone gets on board and the coach gets going.
We cross the Severn Bridge on our way to Bath.
Paul gives as a tour around Bath and we go inside the Roman Baths. Really interesting and full of Roman history.
The waters in the main bath have started to go green because of the hot weather, but I don’t plan to take a swim. We go underground and see the natural spring where the hot water comes from and there is also a lot of Roman architecture and a history museum of sorts. After our visit we are let loose. I go back to Bath Cathedral – there is a service going on so I think it is best not to go inside.
Wandering around and go down towards the river – where there is a group of Japanese tourists taking photos. I swear they are worse than me. I am patient and wait until everyone of them gets their photo taken at the same spot and then I can start clicking away.
Grab a bit of lunch and we are on our way south west through Exeter and onto Plymouth.
We arrive and have our Highlight Cruise on Plymouth Harbour. It is very relaxing on the water and we see the red and white lighthouse and some naval submarines in dock.
We also see the Mayflower Steps where the Pilgrims set sail for the New World in 1620.
We check into our hotel – PLYMOUTH MOAT HOUSE - for our 2 night stay. I have a nice big room which overlooks the Plymouth Hoe (hill) and down to the water.
Have time to wander around Plymouth this afternoon to take in the sights and head off. There is a dirty big anchor out front of the hotel – can’t remember what it is – I think some British warship – and I go down into the town. Lots of people – the weather is still hot – lots of interesting little alleyways. I go over to the Plymouth Rock to have another look around and then head back to the hotel.


DAY TWENTY ONE - - Tuesday 19th August
PRISONS, SMUGGLERS & LEGENDS - Overnight Plymouth

Another thumping breakfast – the restaurant is right at the top of the hotel and we get some great views – even if the windows are a bit grimy - and we have an exciting day ahead of us. On the road and we see Dartmoor Prison. I can understand why no-one escapes from there. Where would they go – there is only the moors around. Onto Bodmin Moor – very creepy place. I can imagine what this would be like in winter – bleak and desolate with the winds swirling around a la Heathcliffe and Kathy in Wuthering Heights.
But I digress – as Paul says.

We stop at ‘Jamaica Inn’ – a coaching house and refuge for smugglers as in Daphne du Maurier’s book of the same name.

As you stand outside you can imagine the howling winters with smugglers up to no good and drinking rum – murder and mayhem – my imagination is going faster than a speeding bullet - - - Jamaica Inn has stood on Bodmin Moor for over 400 years. WOW !!!
Driving around we go to Tintagel on the west coast and see the legendary King Arthur’s Castle.
Is this really Camelot?
More photos and we stay in Tintagel for lunch – so of course what do you eat in Cornwall? A Cornish Pastie of course.
The pastie is the size of a family pie and is scrumptious and filling. Walking around I spy the old Post Office and lots of interesting little touristy shops. Today has been another fabulous adventure - full of history and legend and then it is back to the hotel to relax and get ready for -

#15 OPTIONAL: Plymouth Pub meal - Cost ₤24.00

This is our last night together and we are all going – so it’s on the coach and off we go.
The Pub is ‘The Who’d Have Thought It?’ and it is tucked away at the bottom of a rather steep driveway. Good as Kenny is – he is not allowed to take the coach down there so we can either walk or get the pub shuttle car.
I opt for the walk down. A tiny little driveway just big enough for a car – overhanging trees and there it is – what a cute little place.
We settle down to some good food and drink and spend the time merrily chatting about the tour and what a great time we have all had.
At the end of the night – a few of us brave souls decide to walk back up the hill - my legs are not talking to me at this stage - they have had enough - but I press forward. Pitch black and lots of giggling and carrying on – not to mention heavy breathing and the sound of protesting knees that have seen better days.

We collapse on the coach and head off home to Plymouth.
Needless to say I crash immediately my head hits the pillow - -a sound nights sleep - -

DAY TWENTY TWO - - Wednesday 20th August
MEGALITHS AND GOODBYES - Plymouth to London

The last of the big English Buffet Breakfasts – so I don’t waste a thing.
Heading north east we cross the Exeter Bridge and arrive in Glastonbury to have a look around by ourselves. I visit Glastonbury Abbey - ₤3.00 entrance and I discover the fabulous ruins of a once proud abbey. It is traditionally the first great Christian sanctuary in Britain and dates from the 7th Century.
It is also said that the remains of King Arthur and his Queen were discovered here. This abbey along with many others like Tintern Abbey – were part of the Dissolution of the Abbeys carried out by Henry VIII.
After grabbing some lunch it is back on board and we pass Glastonbury Tor on the Avalon landscape – yet another quick onboard Kodak moment as the coach goes merrily on its way.
The Tor is said to be home to the Lord of the Underworld and King of the Fairies –
Gwyn ap Nudd and a place where fairy folke live. In early medieval times there was a monks retreat on top of the hill.

Next and last stop is Stonehenge.
Looking at these magnificent stone towers – or mysterious megaliths - as it says in the itinerary - is incredible. The stones we see now date from about 3050 BC and they are the most important prehistoric monument in Britain today. Stonehenge was first commenced about 5000 years ago and added to over the centuries. There is a path right around the outside of the monuments and you have to stay on it – you can’t wander between the stones. The highway is not so far away and we are told that maybe this will change in future due to pollution and danger to the monuments.
Lots and lots of photos – and lots of tourists.

There are places away from the path where you can sit on the grass and just look and wonder. As this is the last stop on our tour it seems to be the right thing to do. I find a nice grassy patch and think about what I am seeing now and also remembering all the good times and the great places I have been.

The time has gone so fast and I have seen so many wonderful things. I have taken about 35 rolls of film so far so I’ll have a lot of photos to help me remember.

Back on the coach for the last time and we head east into London Town. Our Insight Tour is over. We bid farewell to Paul and Kenny and say goodbye to all our fellow tourers who are going their separate ways.



Me – I have another 4 days in London to do some more exploring.
I have to find my own way back to my new lodgings – The Ramada Jarvis Kensington – I get a taxi uptown with some people from the tour who are staying in the same area.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Lozfromoz,

Lozfromoz
I have thoroughly enjoyed reading your journal. This tour was my first one back in 2000 and lots of memories came flooding back. The Tongadale on the Isle of Skye. You had hot weather and mist, my tour had cool & misty rain but the bar and the snook were both packed on my tour too. I loved the place and the tour. hotels have changed since I did my tour but we had the same driver.

Thankyou for a great journal. I've printed it off and read it twice already. My TA gave me a map of United Kingdom so was able to follow most of the way through to Northern Ireland, until Ireland then back again at Wales.

I may have to rethink my wardrobe. I leave on the 31st of August. I was thinking that I would dress for a climate similar to our late Autumn. ie Ladies Canterbury Rugby Tops and casual trousers.

Just could be an excuse to buy T Shirts along the way.

Hi Lozfromoz

What a terrific journal I have also printed it out. We have this tour on our list to do one day.

Gail M and Tuppence - I am so glad that you like the journal. One thing I forgot to mention was that our TD - Paul Fisher - gave us a huge Insight map of Great Britain and Ireland. He would highlight his map for the route taken for that days journey and then pass it around the coach so that we could copy onto ours. Was a great idea - you will have a fabulous time on this tour. As I always say - look at it as one big adventure and enjoy every part of it.
Pauline - it's great to remember isn't it?

I did forget to mention however that our TD Paul Fisher was great. A thorough gentleman and full of interesting tales and stories from all over. He did an excellent job of keeping us all under control and making sure that we did enjoy our holiday. Kenny our Driver was fabulous. He was a very skilled driver and could take that coach anywhere. This was a fabulous tour. Thank you to all my fellow travelling companions, Paul and Kenny for making it so memorable.

Lozfromoz
Thank you for your very detailed report of this tour it was very interesting to read and sounds like it was a most enjoyable tour. We are wondering if you found 22 days to long on a coach we are looking at this tour or the Britain and Ireland Explorer. This one of coures you see more plus the Orkney Islands.

Hi Joybell,

Not at all - the 22 days goes so fast and really the time on the coach is fine. We were only on the coach for about 2 hours at at time. That does sound a long time to sit in one place but when you are excited and looking around at all the scenery passing by because you don't want to miss a thing - taking photos out the windows - or even catching up on some sleep it doesn't seem like that long.
It's a great tour - - I would love to do it again. The Orkneys were wonderful - even in the mist.

quote:

Originally posted by Lozfromoz:
Hi Joybell,

Not at all - the 22 days goes so fast and really the time on the coach is fine. We were only on the coach for about 2 hours at at time. That does sound a long time to sit in one place but when you are excited and looking around at all the scenery passing by because you don't want to miss a thing - taking photos out the windows - or even catching up on some sleep it doesn't seem like that long.
It's a great tour - - I would love to do it again. The Orkneys were wonderful - even in the mist.

Glad to see that you are still happy that you did the Britain/Ireland tour. We will always remember it with fondness. I see that you had the same TD as us. I thought our last TD was never going to be topped , but Paul was right there and maybe more because his humor was subtle and right up my alley. I enjoyed it. He always took time for a personal conversation with each one of us. Hard to do with so many but he did. Nice touch. Though he was very good I read that many people had great TD's. That is a great compliment to Insight for setting a standard for their customers to appreciate. We did however have a very poor city guide in Edinburgh. She was a sad replacement for the day. That was too bad, but the evening with the Tatoo made up for it and other city guides were fine. Our next tour may be France, or some other Western European tour. Youngest daughter getting married next spring so may have to wait for another year. Also a cruise to the Mediterranian is in mind. Too much to see so little time. We did Italy and are so glad to have seen it in the year 2000. A door in the Vatican that only opens once in forever ( I think it's 100 years) was open to walk through. A lot of the buildings had been cleaned for the Millenium. The Sistine chapel had finished it's renovation and looked fabulous and bright. Florence was better than I hoped, Pisa is very interesting and now, I guess, the tower is straight (?). That would be cool to see. The coast is rugged and so different than ours in Oregon,USA. How could you NOT love the food. I guess that you will love it indeed. And Insight will apparently provide you with a great TD. Have fun making plans.

Oh, a lot of the Aussies on OUR tour had or were about to go on the Canadian railroad tour and some added an Alaska cruise with that. I would say more than half of them had done that trip and they all liked it. Alaska is unique and fabulous and the Canadian trip is very worth it. Something to look into.

Loz, what a great read; just what my wife and I wanted. We are doing the 22 day BofB in September. It will be our 1st time to UK. My father was a Scot so am really looking forward to the Scottish connection. Both our daughters work in the UK so of course we are catching up with them.Congratulations again on your journal.

Bill & carol