The Lakes to Shropshire

There we were, sitting in a coffee shop in Ambleside trying to work out which route to take to Shropshire where we were to spend four nights with Pete Nicholls. Chatting to Pierre's wife the man at the next table apologised for listening in but said he had a particular interest in maps. Would you believe it? So he suggested we avoid such and such road like the plague as it is full of traffic lights, and, if we had time, to drive a little via the Yorkshire National Park. 


So off we headed on a beautiful sunny day, first by the lakes, then headed west towards Yorkshire. This photo was taken just outside Ambleside: 

Ambleside view

Again, we loved the scenery along windy country roads.  We bought sandwiches from a little town at the foot of Yorkshire national park and even this little place was so picturesque. We drove for about 20 mins into Yorkshire  and found another viaduct. To give you an idea of the scale, at the bottom of the picture are a couple of cars. You can also see how the countryside has changed significantly - very rugged.   

Yorkshire viaduct

By this time it was getting onto 2pm and we still had a fair way to go to Shropshire.  The map man advised us to do the last leg by the motor way - M6.  Although not particularly interesting, we made excellent time.  We got petrol half way (found out that was a mistake - price was 12p more than off the M6) and checked with the attendant about the speed limit. Although he was such a young person, he had an accent I associate with an old man (too much British TV!)  He told me the thought it was seventay, at least I always go seventay.  


We arrived at Pete's home just outside the village of Tibberton, a tiny village with only a pub.  Pete took us to dinner at a nearby pub called The Fox.  It was very busy and had a great atmosphere. 


Next day, Sunday, we went to Ironbridge, a lovely town with the first bridge made of? you guessed it, iron, was built around 1779!  Gee, just after Cook discovered Australia - what a contrast. 

bridge at Ironbridge

It was also a beautiful sunny day so we had lunch at a pub by the river in the sun. Soo relaxing.  I had a yummy field mushroom and goats cheese salad. 

Pete and Peter lunching

After lunch we strolled the streets, bought an icecream and generally chilled out. Most relaxing day of our trip so far. 

Windowshopping in Ironbridge