Stockcross and Downton Abbey

As stated I headed of to Stockcross where Bob picked me up after lunch. A short drive to his place where Allison awaited. We chatted awhile then I went next door with Bob to book into my room at the Lord Lyon Hotel.

                              Bob at the snug
To be sociable we had a couple of pints and then met back up with Allison for a spot of exploring. I had no idea that they were in close proximity to Highclere Castle, so the 5 minutes it took to get there was past in a jif.

What can I say, it is a magnificent Victorian mansion set in beautiful grounds. Did not go in but just to prove a point took the photo!

It is open to public during summer, but time did not allow more.

We then went for a drive around the area before returning back as Allison's sister Ann and John were expected. We met them and I went back to pub for a scrub before we picked up Fi following her train trip down after work.

                              Lord Lyon

The 6 of us then dined at the Lord Lyon before walking up the street to The Rising Sun where a folk musician was playing as part of the 2 weeks of the Stockcross festival.

Staggered back to our room and this morning Fi headed off at 7.00 to get back to London for work. Tomorrow off to Paris!!