Monthly Roundup – November 2022

November has been somewhat frustrating as both husband and I have been suffering the lingering effects of a winter lurgy (no, not that one) that has sapped our energy. We had our final trip away of the year booked and paid for yet seriously considered whether we should go, if were up to the walking this would entail. I mean, what else does one do in the depths of Dartmoor? In the end we opted to travel and try to enjoy the fabulous location as best we could. For anyone interested, I reviewed the hotel we stayed in here and wrote of my teddy bear, Edward’s adventures here. We managed some lovely if shorter than usual walks – including in temperate rainforest (which I had been reading about, see below) – and the food was excellent.

Back home there were then periods of rest as we tried to recuperate. We continued to take part in Parkrun each week, with me running slowly and husband volunteering. By the end of the month I was going out during the week to pound our local tracks and lanes again, although at a glacial pace. We also returned to the gym for some lifting. Despite keeping things light – close to my normal warmup weights – muscles had obviously enjoyed their rest and complained about the return to working out. We persevere.

Student son has been affected by the university lecturer strikes and by some teaching moving online again. I do wonder what he is paying so much for. To be clear, I understand why the strikes are happening, but turning universities into businesses has had so many negative repercussions. It is hard to watch as a young person tries to learn in what is now a far from ideal environment. I am glad he still has his hockey and part-time job to get him out of the house on these dark days.

My other children keep themselves busy as ever, balancing jobs with attempts at a social life. Husband and I pulled out of plans to attend a friend’s birthday party due to our health issues, something I was quite relieved about but, being more sociable, he may have regretted. I have agreed to attend a Christmas work do with him and just hope I remember how to talk to people face to face.

I posted reviews for 10 books in November. Robyn had too much going on to write anything for the blog but hopes to contribute next month when she moves to a more predictable rotation.

As is customary in my monthly roundups, click on the title below to read the review and on the cover to learn more about the book.

Fiction

 
Where I End by Sophie White, published by Tramp Press
The Peckham Experiment by Guy Ware, published by Salt

 
The Sandstone City by Elaine Canning, published by Alderyn Press
Malarkoi by Alex Pheby, published by Galley Beggar

Disobedient Women by Sangeeta Mulay, published by Fly on the Wall Press

Translated Fiction

 
Dislocations by Sylvia Molloy (translated by Jennifer Croft), published by Charco Press
Ruth by Guillem Viladot (translated by P. Louise Johnson), published by Fum d’Estampa

Short Stories

Lunate vol. 1, published by Lunate Journal

Non Fiction

 
The Book of Phobias and Manias by Kate Summerscale, published by Profile
The Lost Rainforests of Britain by Guy Shrubsole, published by William Collins

Sourcing the books

Robyn continues to order the special editions of books she one day hopes to read.

 

I received a handful of titles to add to my review pile, some of which didn’t linger there.

As ever I wish to thank all the publishers who send me their books to review – the arrival of a book parcel remains a cheering event in my day.

My thanks also to those who share my words across their social media platforms – your continuing support is always appreciated.

And to everyone reading this, I wish you and yours good health and the ability to pause and enjoy all that is still beautiful in our world and lives. May we strive, at all times, to be kind  xx

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Edward Explores: Dartmoor

Edward has recently returned from his final planned adventure of the year in which he travelled to Dartmoor – a wild, rugged and somewhat damp corner of our beautiful country. His bearers went in search of particular places. Chief Bearer wished to visit some of the temperate rainforests she has been reading about and which, although ancient, offer hope for the future of our planet if permitted to thrive. Eldest Bearer was keen to bag some Tors – rocky peaks from which the surrounding countryside may be fully appreciated when not engulfed in cloud. Edward was, of course, willing to support all endeavours. He had not, however, expected these adventures to be quite as worryingly damp as turned out to be the case.

There are few other practical ways to reach remote Dartmoor other than by car. The journey proved pleasingly uneventful and the lovely hotel chosen for this stay was reached after just a few hours. Edward was happy to find some freshly baked cookies waiting for him and tucked in straight away. You may read a review of the hotel (in which Edward features) by clicking here.

The rainforest by the hotel was small but proved interesting, with many examples of moss and lichen to admire on both fallen trees and higher up in the living canopy. Only a few pockets in the river valley have been allowed to revert to anything approaching their natural state but there were many indications that, if human interference were minimised, more would develop within fenced off areas. Edward was heartened to see how Mother Nature bides her time despite the way she is so often mistreated.

After his ecological explorations, Edward made some new friends in the hotel boot room where muddy dogs and attire may be dealt with. He was then ready to retire to his room for a pre-dinner rest.

Dinners were enjoyed to the full with waiting staff eager to provide a visiting bear with the sustenance he so clearly deserved.

After the gentle woodland walks, the moorland adventure proved quite the challenge. High winds threatened to blow Edward from his rocky perches, with the many deep puddles in the vicinity a particular worry. Having ascended through boggy terrain, the fine views were enjoyed, albeit briefly. All too soon the clouds descended and Edward suffered the indignity of being wrapped tight in a plastic bag as rucksacks are not always fully waterproof. This, it turned out, was a good call. Bearers were soaked in the subsequent downpour despite their wet weather gear. On releasing Edward from his confinement, his protective bag was found to be damp, but thankfully only on the outside.

Having been so brave it was a relief to return to his warm and dry bed where Edward recovered from his ordeal beneath the snuggly covers. Many hugs were exchanged and all was soon well again.

On a hill up the road from the hotel was a rather splendid castle, sadly closed at this time of year but with a café that made bears most welcome. It was hard to choose which tasty snack to indulge in, so Edward had two. Some holidays just require a little more comfort eating.

Edward was pleased to be able to accompany his bearers on this particularly daring explore. Now safely back home, with all his joints intact, he has settled down for a few weeks well deserved R&R.

Hotel Review: Mill End, Dartmoor

The Mill End Hotel near Chagford is located on the banks of the River Teign on the edge of the Dartmoor National Park. A mill existed here from the 15th Century, built to grind cereal into flour. This ceased production in 1922 when the building was converted to a private residence. A few years later, in 1929, Mill End took on its new role as a country house hotel. The 18ft water wheel at the heart of Mill End was renovated in 1998. It is served from a leat (an artificial aqueduct common on Dartmoor) managed by sluice gates off the river, which runs under the kitchens.

The hotel offers twenty individually-styled bedrooms, comfy lounges, log fires and riverside gardens. A stone bridge provides access to footpaths – the National Trust owned Castle Drogo Estate in one direction, and into the town of Chagford in the other. The river valley through which these paths pass would be temperate rainforest if left to flourish. Look closely and there are many signs of nature doing her best to rewild.

Husband and I booked into Mill End for a three night stay on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis in early November. We opted not to upgrade as the standard double room sounded perfectly acceptable. It was. The bed was comfy and the room offered plenty of space for my daily yoga workout. The bathroom was generously proportioned with a good sized bath and pleasingly powerful water pressure for the shower.

The hotel prides itself on being dog friendly. A large boot room is provided with a ‘doggy shower’ outside and then a basket of towels to help dry a canine friend off. A jar of doggy treats ensures that they are rewarded for compliance. Not being dog owners, we did not require these extras but were grateful for somewhere to leave our damp, muddy boots and trainers after each day’s exertions.

We tend to select our accommodation for active holidays based on food recommendations in the area we wish to visit. Mill End has been awarded two AA Rosettes and uses local produce when possible – all of which appealed. As hoped, dinner each evening was a highlight of our stay.

Pre dinner drinks were enjoyed in a comfy lounge, warmed by a log burner. When ready, we then moved into the pleasantly proportioned restaurant which was busy throughout our stay – this did not effect the excellent service. An amuse bouche was provided before the courses selected were served. Portions were generous with impressive quality and presentation – the chef knows how to mix flavours to make dishes pleasing and interesting. The nicely varied cheese board, chosen in lieu of a sweet pudding, did not cost extra. Menus changed daily.

As is our wont, we missed the designated breakfast sitting on the Saturday morning due to our participation in a local Parkrun. On telling staff, we were offered the option of a bacon sandwich on our return. This tasty treat was waiting for us at the time suggested, piping hot and including a beautifully cooked egg. Fruit juice had also been left out for us and a lovely waitress brought us a jug of freshly brewed coffee, so welcome after a damp run on a seriously challenging course that had left us in need of a warming pick-me-up. We were very grateful that this kindly offered extra was not treated as an imposition.

On subsequent mornings we enjoyed breakfast as intended. A selection of juices, fresh fruit, cereals and pastries were available at a buffet. Cooked options were made to order with minor adjustments to listed options accommodated. We felt well fuelled for our active days.

We had a lovely stay at this hotel. All staff encountered were unfailingly friendly and helpful. The location was perfect for walks both at river level and on the moors. The weather could have been better but facilities at the hotel ensured we could dry out and warm up quickly. If looking to visit Dartmoor, Mill End is well worth considering as a welcoming and comfortable base.

Hotel Review: Northcote Manor in Devon

Earlier this month husband and I enjoyed a short break in North Devon. Husband had been keen to stay at Northcote Manor since we enjoyed a lovely break at its sister hotel, Lake Country House in Wales. We were lucky with the weather and had a fine if somewhat energetic few days away.

Pictured above is the entrance to the extensive grounds of the hotel, located pretty much opposite the Portsmouth Arms railway station on the A377. I mention this detail as Google Maps directed us along miles of narrow and winding country lanes before depositing us at the rear entrance of the hotel. The roads in this area may not be the easiest to drive around generally but the correct route to the hotel is not as bad as we first feared.

The eighteenth century manor house around which the hotel has been developed was built in the grounds of a former monastery, dating from 1000 AD. A Victorian wing was added and the house lived in by various well-to-do families until the middle of last century. It opened as a hotel in 1972, with the current owners adding a spa and upgrading all facilities to offer a tranquil and luxurious experience for guests. Three murals in the lounge and restaurant reflect this long and varied history.

Having checked into our large and comfortable bedroom, located at ground level in a recent extension, we set out to explore the grounds. Paths wind through gardens, an old orchard, and down into woodland. It is worth noting that some of the paved paths are particularly slippery. The views when they open up are something special.

The hotel is situated in a remote location – we found no walks we could do direct from the grounds. Thus we relied on our car more than we are used to. It is not, however, necessary to drive too far to reach a variety of rights of way. Devon is hilly so be prepared for many ascents and descents when out walking. The scenery makes up for this.

Knowing there was little else nearby, we had booked in on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis. As we like to take part in a Parkrun every Saturday, at check-in we requested some food in lieu of breakfast on the first morning of our stay – a banana perhaps, with a roll or some croissants, whatever was available. We were assured this should not be problem. At 7.30am I went to ask for our pre-run sustenance. The lovely waitress queried the kitchen but they knew nothing of our request. I was told they had no bananas so was given apples instead. Croissants were being made and the waitress told me she would bring some to our room in fifteen minutes. At 8am we had to leave. No further food had arrived and no staff could be located.

When I worked as a manager my bosses drummed into me the importance of ‘under promise and over deliver’. Had we been told no further food could be provided we would have accepted this. What was disappointing was the raising of expectations.

Dinners, on the other hand, were always excellent. Service, presentation and quality were a delight to experience. The only niggle I had was that the cheese board, which I regularly have instead of pudding, cost extra. This may not have been quite so irritating if the cheese selection had been more adventurous. We know from previous visits to the area that there are many delicious local cheeses available. Perhaps the hotel experiences little demand. They certainly appear to work hard to limit waste – a good thing that does not detract from what is made available on the changing menu.

Under the premise of environmental considerations, we were asked if we would be happy not to have our room serviced daily. As we were only there for three nights this did not bother us – and it was a choice. When items from our hospitality tray ran low, we were provided with top ups.

Having missed breakfast on our first morning, we were eager to partake on days two and three. I would normally enjoy smoked salmon with my eggs but this, again, came with a surcharge. I therefore opted for the Full English, giving husband items I did not wish to eat. As well as the cooked element there was a large bowl of delicious fresh fruit along with a selection of juices, toast and well made coffee. Quantity and quality were fine but I felt the menu lacked variety – probably because my first choice was not included in what we had already paid.

Northcote Manor Hotel is clean, comfortable and well maintained. The staff are friendly although not always available – we had to wait at times to retrieve our room key. There are pleasing touches – the tasty shortbread on arrival and fresh apples in the room. There are lounges to relax in with bookshelves and interesting artworks.

I must also mention the spa, available throughout the day for adult residents’ use. It has a lounge area where food and drinks may be purchased. The small pool is well heated and abuts a large hot tub – although take care if walking barefoot on the slippery tiles. There is a steam room and sauna. The small gym appeared to be well used, offering cardio machines and weights. At no time when we were there did this facility get too busy. Robes are provided in the bedrooms which proved useful as I prefer to change in my room. The spa is in a separate building from the hotel so a short walk outside is required. We were grateful for the warmth and ambience to relax in after our long walks.

The hot tub was particularly welcome as our ensuite did not have a bath for soaking tired legs. Our ground floor bedroom was obviously kitted out for those with mobility issues. There was plenty of room for a wheelchair user to access toilet and shower. Handrails were built in and a plastic seat provided, along with a pull cord in case of emergencies.

We enjoyed our few days away, Northcote Manor providing a relaxing base. Our bedroom was lovely and memories of the delicious dinners will linger. There is beautiful countryside to explore nearby and the coast is a short drive away. Recommended for those happy to stay in a peaceful if remote location.

Monthly Roundup – September 2022

September has been noteworthy in a number of ways. At a national level there were deaths – the Queen and Hilary Mantel to name two. Closer to home, husband and I made our long delayed trip to Ireland to collect some personal effects put aside for me and my children from my late parents’ house clearance. This proved a worthwhile distraction from the media’s sycophantic mourning for a woman I admired less than the fine author we lost too early.

The Ireland trip was always going to be an emotional journey. I last travelled to the isle in early 2020 for my mother’s 92nd birthday. We had therefore decided to make it rather more epic a holiday than usual. The need to bring a car across the Irish Sea to enable transport of inherited items inspired us to book a cabin on an overnight ferry – the closest we would ever wish to come to a cruise. The boat sailed from Liverpool, a city we had never visited. We therefore booked a couple of nights in a hotel there. Although interesting, the place did not require the amount of time allocated. We were glad to take part in the Birkenhead Parkrun. A morning in Chester also helped while away some time. My teddy bear, Edward, accompanied us. You may read of his Explores in Liverpool and its surrounds here.

The Belfast leg of the trip was filled with nostalgia. We revisited several of the towns and villages located on the northern coast of the Ards Peninsula that my parents had loved and regularly took me as a child (I rarely appreciated them then). We caught up with friends and family, who made us welcome in their homes as well as joining us for dinners in fine, local eateries. Husband and I climbed Divis and Black Mountain – a first for me as they are located west of the city in an area I would have feared travelling through when I lived in troubled Belfast. The spectacular views from the ridges warmed my heart for a place I often think of negatively.

The hotel we stayed in prides itself on its comforts and grandeur. Located on the coast at Cultra – a wealthy enclave below which runs a coastal path I walked often as a teenager – I enjoyed reacquainting myself with the area. You may read my review of the hotel and spa here. Edward’s Explore of Belfast will be posted next week.

We returned home via Scotland, with an overnight stop in Dumfries to enable us to take part in their Parkrun. Good memories were made on this lengthy trip and I am grateful to those who helped make it special.

The rest of the month also had highlights. Husband bought me a fine, new bicycle that I took out on a couple of longer rides. As well as Parkruns, I started attending a new, local running club – a rare and brave sociable endeavour for me. The group is made up of new runners, or those returning to the activity after a break of many years. For the first time ever I was regarded as fast! Husband laughed when I told him this. Such opinion will undoubtedly change as the others build on their endurance and stamina, but I’ll take my brief moment while it lasts.

My little family have also faced changes this month. Elder son started a new job that requires him to work on site rather than from home, prompting him to buy his first car. Younger son returned to university. Both can still live at home and commute so we remain a unit of five, for which I am grateful. They may create a mountain of dishes and laundry for me to deal with but I value the daily updates that they are doing okay given all going on in the wider world.

I posted reviews for 7 books in September. Robyn once again took over the blog while I was on holiday and added a further 3 reviews.

As is customary in my monthly roundups, click on the title below to read the review and on the cover to learn more about the book.

Fiction

 
Homesick by Jennifer Croft, published by Charco Press
Isaac and the Egg by Bobby Palmer, published by Headline

Odesa at Dawn by Sally McGrane, published by V&Q Books

Short Stories

A Little Unsteadily Into Light – New Dementia-Inspired Fiction, published by New Island Books

Translated Short Stories

Punishment by Ferdinand von Shirach (translated by Katherine Hall), published by Baskerville

Poetry

Mathematics for Ladies by Jessy Randall, published by Goldsmiths Press

Non Fiction

Hysterical – Exploding the Myth of Gendered Emotions by Pragya Agarwal, published by Canongate

Robyn Reviews

 
The Stardust Thief by Chelsea Abdullah, published by Orbit
The Fever King by Victoria Lee, published by Skyscape

Truthwitch by Susan Dennard, published by Tor

Sourcing the books

Robyn couldn’t resist these beautiful editions of books she hopes one day to read.

Along with the restrained pile of books I claimed from my father’s library – for which, as you can see, no shelf space has yet been found – a generous quantity of review copies came through my door.

As ever I wish to thank all the publishers who send me their books to review – the arrival of a book parcel remains a cheering event in my day.

My thanks also to those who share my words across their social media platforms – your continuing support is always appreciated.

And to everyone reading this, I wish you and yours good health and the ability to pause and enjoy all that is still beautiful in our world and lives. May we strive, at all times, to be kind  xx

Holiday Review: Center Parcs Longleat Forest

Center Parcs have long been one of my family’s go to destinations for active holidays. Although in the past we have stayed at the Sherwood Forest (Nottinghamshire) and Whinfell Forest (Cumbria) sites, Longleat Forest (Wiltshire) remains our favourite. Not only do we enjoy its layout and facilities, the location is a 45 minute drive from home meaning we can gain full value from each day of our stay there.

Last week we returned for our first family holiday since Covid restrictions were introduced. Friends who have holidayed under this regime had warned us of the changes and we had delayed booking in the hope they would be removed. Sadly, it seems these have now become a permanent feature. The main change is the need to book a limited time slot (3 hours) in order to access the swimming area before 6pm. Each lodge is offered a fixed number of these – our midweek break granted us 4 over the course of our 5 day stay. The effect is to somewhat regiment daily activities.

Our friend had also recommended pre-booking any restaurants we wished to eat at well in advance. This proved good advice. Due to staff shortages not all venues could open each evening. Those that could were running on reduced capacity.

With swimming slots and dinner tables booked we travelled to Longleat Forest with some trepidation that it would be a good use of valued annual leave.

Husband and younger son drove down in the morning as they were eager to enjoy some racquet sports before our planned late lunch together at the Sports Bar. Daughter and I joined them for this meal, arriving later as she had just come off a series of night shifts. We arrived at peak time (2.30pm) and crawled along in a queue to enter the site that backed up along the entrance driveway almost to the highway. Husband reported he had been able to drive in with no delay (11am).

Once through check-in, parking was busy but straightforward. The rubber bracelets we were each given on arrival granted entry to the lodge we stayed in and also enabled us to secure a locker in the pool area.

Food and drinks at the Sports Bar (and, as it turned out, the Pancake House) were ordered via a phone app. This worked well, although may prove daunting for a guest less confident with such technology. We enjoyed our lunch, eaten in the sunshine at an outside table. The weather throughout our stay was amazing – warm sunshine each day with only a light breeze.

Accommodation may be accessed from 4pm on arrival day. We had booked a Woodland Lodge in the Fir area of the site – the cheapest available. Being allocated one that backed onto a pond brightened my mornings due to the wildlife it attracted. Despite the peace and quiet, I didn’t sleep well as the bed was smaller and softer than I am used to and the bedding was so starched it crackled. Everything provided was clean if basic. Towels are provided for use in the lodge but no other toiletries other than loo paper. Only the later lodge access time had changed since we last visited so all was as expected.

Having unpacked and returned the car to the parking area we went for our first swimming session. As it was now after 6pm there had been no need to book this, thereby saving our allocated slots for subsequent days. The slides, rapids and waves were enjoyed as much as ever and we stayed until closing time (9pm).

I started Day 2 with a morning run that proved challenging due to the many hills on site and the crowded walkways linking various areas. It was lovely to run around the main lake but I then chose to head towards the car park and main driveways to avoid the many bicycles and buggy pushers on narrower pathways. I managed 5 miles of loops, exploring the site thoroughly, before re-joining my family.

With the sunny weather we decided to spend some time before our daily swimming slot on the lake. We hired a pedalo in which husband and younger son had fun trying to go faster than the electric versions most people seemed to have selected. Tired from such exertions we returned to the Sports Bar for liquid refreshment.

Swimming slots had been booked each day for mid afternoon, enabling us to continue into the ‘free’ evening session and then go straight to dinner, shortly after 7pm. Apparently earlier sessions are time controlled using coloured bracelets. We were not required to wear these.

Over the course of the week we ate at Los Iguanas, Bella Italia and Café Rouge, enjoying decent food and good service at each. Elder son, who had opted not to join us for the holiday due to a shoulder injury and busy work schedule, made a late decision to come down for dinner one evening – another benefit of being a reasonably short drive away. He was added to our table reservation without complaint. Both he and daughter’s boyfriend were on our original 3 bedroom lodge booking so could come and go at will.

Mobile signal across the site is patchy so communicating with the outside world caused some issues. Guest WiFi is available in most areas so those willing to use messenger services such as WhatsApp can do so more easily.

The earlier part of Days 3 and 5 were spent at the sports complex where we played badminton, squash and table tennis. We bring our own equipment for these activities but racquets, balls and shuttlecocks can be collected on site if necessary. On Day 4 we had great fun doing a round of crazy golf by the lake followed by another visit to the Sports Bar. In between these activities we walked around the site or relaxed at our lodge. The days felt full but never too busy. Taking a midweek break out of school holiday time meant many of the other families were dealing with young children.

We had no problem booking everything we did – bar the swimming and dinner – at the last minute via the phone app. This flexibility meant we could do what we felt like each day without too much time pressure. The app itself is somewhat slow and clunky but useable. Husband preferred this system to that offered on previous visits.

There are, of course, many activities available that we did not take part in. The zip wire over the lake appeared popular. Groups of Segway riders were spotted on walkways. Paddle boarders were being given instruction on the lake. In the past my children have enjoyed taking part in tree trekking and other high level adventures. They have tried archery and quad biking. The indoor climbing wall has been well used. Younger visitors are also well catered for with numerous play areas, outside and in. It is not a cheap holiday by any means but can be highly enjoyable for those willing to make use of the offered facilities.

Day 5 was departure day so the lodge needed to be cleared by 10am. Having stayed at Center Parcs many times before we have this down to a fine art and were out and ready for the day’s activities from 9.30am. After a morning of racquet sports we had booked lunch at the Pancake House – always a treat.

Our final swim session was curtailed at around 6pm when the indoor pool and slides were closed unexpectedly – we were not sure if this was due to the regularly used excuses of a child soiling the water or staff shortages. It did not spoil what had turned out to be a lovely stay. We headed home tired but in agreement that Center Parcs was still worth visiting despite the new restrictions.

Edward Explores: Devil’s Bridge

The extra bank holiday granted for the recent Queen’s Jubilee celebration gave Edward’s bearers a four day weekend. It was decided that this would be the ideal time to leave the country for the first time since early 2020. A hotel was booked at the interestingly named Devil’s Bridge in mid-west Wales. It was hoped there would be less bunting here than rapidly proliferated as the weekend approached in the English village where Edward lives.

On entering the country Edward was immediately made to feel welcome. The hotel at which he stayed provided tasty biscuits for him to enjoy on his big bed – although sadly these weren’t replenished daily. If interested in an overview of The Hafod, you may read a review, in which Edward features, here.

Legend has it that the first of the devil’s bridges was built by the eponymous wicked being in order to trick a lady – whose cow had strayed across the river – into giving up her soul. She was far too canny for this mean minded ploy, although it was unclear from the various write-ups of the tale whether the dog she sent across in her place was rejected or taken by the devil. Edward asked the creature guarding the steps down to view the three bridges that exist today – built one on top of the other over several centuries as replacements were needed. He barked his reply before spreading his wings.

Edwards bearers took him on several river walks where he was able to view waterfalls, being careful to stay dry. He was also interested in the remains of a mine by a river, although not one of the deep ones he had read about that used to exist all over Wales, providing quality coal for trains. This one was a source of minerals, and still raises issues around water pollution today.

As well as the bridges and rivers, Edward explored the nearby town of Aberystwyth. It had a castle that had seen better days and a steep hill offering a fine view of the coastal settlement. It was quite windy on the summit so our intrepid bear held on tight to the bench where he paused to rest.

From Aberystwyth it is possible to catch a steam train back to Devil’s Bridge. Edward met a rather cheeky monkey at the station and offered words of advice about acceptable manners. Teddy bears are, of course, always well behaved.

After all his adventuring, Edward was pleased to return to the hotel each evening for dinner. He very much enjoyed his puddings and remained perplexed that one of his bearers kept opting for cheese instead.

Adventures do, of course, come to an end and our small bear – from the now defunct English Teddy Bear Company – was welcomed back to his home country, as may be expected. Although the Jubilee Weekend was drawing to a close, Edward arrived home just in time to join a tea party hosted by Elizabeth for a new friend she had made. He did wonder why Monty was guarding the teapot so carefully.

Edward was pleased to be travelling further afield again and enjoyed his few days away. He now has a more local trip pending that he looks forward to telling you all about next time.

Random Musings: A year ago this weekend

A year ago this weekend husband and I travelled to Cardiff on a planned city break. Our younger son was at university there and we looked forward to spending time with him and continuing our exploration of the city. We had booked tables at restaurants to take him out for good feeds. We also packed running gear to enable us to take part in the Bute Parkrun on Saturday morning. For reasons financially careful husband would justify, we went by train rather than driving.

Rumours were circulating in the media of some sort of proposed lockdown – whatever that meant – in response to a virus spreading from China. When our son told us a day or so before the weekend that he was feeling under the weather we decided to bring mostly empty suitcases that he could pack what he needed for exam preparation, returning home with us for an extended Easter break. I did not like the thought of him struck down in his halls of residence, alone and unwell. Husband and I had both recently suffered a particularly nasty flu that left a lingering cough it took weeks to shake. We didn’t want our son suffering as we had without support.

The weekend did not go as planned.

Eating out on the Friday night we learned that all restaurants in the city were being closed down, effective immediately. Staff at the Bella Italia we had booked – mostly empty which was highly unusual – had been invited to help themselves to perishables from the kitchen, that would otherwise go to waste. Already the impact of fearmongering could be felt in the emptying streets that were usually thronging with loudly partying tourists.

We learned the next morning that all Parkruns had been cancelled. We ran in Bute Park anyway and were amazed by how empty everywhere felt. Streets were devoid of people. There was little sign of traffic. Our hotel was the only place that would feed us on the Saturday. Our son walked back to his halls that night through a city that had unexpectedly grown feral. For the first time he reported feeling unsafe, the homeless the only others around and they actively shouting abuse as he passed by.

It was a sunny weekend so we had walked down to the harbour area where families were enjoying the spring air. It was the city centre that felt eerie, the few people around scurrying from proximity.

We packed our son’s essentials on the Sunday, leaving his room ready for his return. Since then he has been back to Cardiff just for an afternoon, last September, to move his remaining belongings to the room booked for the next academic year. Foolishly, we believed the assurances that teaching would be happening in person rather than remotely. It didn’t happen and his rented room has served only as an expensive storage facility. Nevertheless, when the media reports of students confined to halls aired, we were grateful he remained here with us.

On the weekend of our escape – for that was how it felt at the time – we boarded a mostly empty train to Bristol encumbered by our many bags and suitcases. From there we learned that trains were being cancelled without notice, including our connection. We watched the ever changing departure boards carefully and decided to catch a train to Swindon from where we could get a bus home if necessary – assuming they were still running. In the event our daughter, who had travelled from London the day before, was able to come rescue us in my car.

And lockdown began. The reports from around the country made me thankful my little family had made it home where we could be together. I felt comforted that we had each other and lived in a rural location.

There were initial benefits. The roads emptied. The skies cleared of contrails. The weather stayed mostly fine. I own a bike and was able to enjoy long cycle rides along routes normally besieged by fast moving motor traffic. I ran regularly and built up my stamina to tackle lonely half marathons. We have long had our grocery shopping delivered and this continued, albeit with regular replacements of certain staple goods that caused more amusement than hardship. We were lucky.

The months dragged on. The lifting of the first lockdown was not a return to freedoms we had never before considered at risk. We ate out twice before deciding being treated as a biohazard spoiled the experience. I discovered that wearing a mask brought on panic attacks. I carry a lanyard announcing my exemption but being unable to read others’ expressions upsets me. The only place I felt welcome – until it was closed again – was the town gym I joined when my local facility introduced measures that made attendance unappealing.

I look back on how life has changed. With travel curtailed it feels as though we have gone back a century. It seems only the very wealthy leave their home environs – that they may still travel abroad with impunity. Meanwhile husband’s car is taken out only occasionally to ensure it still functions. We venture as far as leg power can take us.

I worry at the legal powers given to the police to ensure compliance. I wonder if these measures will be revoked when – if – we are allowed to roam free again. The latest pressures coming from on high revolve around the new vaccines. With threats of travel bans for the non compliant, and eternal mask wearing, I harbour a fear that last year’s trip to Cardiff may have been my last holiday, my last enjoyable visit to a restaurant.

The death toll has, of course, been high. On a personal level this plague brought forward the deaths of my elderly parents. What cannot yet be enumerated is the ongoing cost to the many who, for now, remain alive.

Jobs have been lost and others created – not necessarily in chosen specialisms. Fear has polarised opinion, at times dividing family and friends. Unable to get together as previously, mental health issues are exacerbated. With healthcare focusing on Covid, other potential illnesses – some of which will bring forward deaths – have gone untreated.

Husband works from home now, something he railed against at first, missing the office camaraderie. We get used to so much when choice is removed. We adapt as best we can.

I read of rats invading empty office spaces. I read of scams being run by those eager to profit from others’ fear. I hunker down and nurse the injuries my body suffers, probably from over exercise – my way of coping with anxiety induced by so many changes. I watch more TV now than I could ever have imagined – a way to fill a dark evening. As one who lived by the mantra of making the most of every day as it could be my last, this past year feels a waste of what is limited time alive.

Only hindsight will tell if the reaction to Covid has been as cataclysmic as it sometimes feels.

I wanted a memento of the year. To forget is to lose the chance to learn. I chose a book – no surprise there – and was also gifted a furry companion. My cuddly plague nurse, pictured below, never fails to make me smile.

My review of the book, Spring Journal by Jonathan Gibbs, will be posted tomorrow. For now we continue this stymied existence through strange and concerning times.

Book Review: Coasting

Coasting, by Jonathan Raban, was first published in 1986. This edition is from Eland who tell us, ‘For the price of a good bottle of wine our travel books offer inspiration for passionate exploration – in the company of authors who really know, and who know how to tell it.’ The author of this book is pleasingly self-deprecating without sacrificing his obvious abilities. The tale he tells is of its time and place yet offers wider understanding of the psyche of the British. This should be essential reading for those who cannot comprehend why Brexit happened – who talk of lies believed as if those who disagree with their point of view are somehow lacking in cognitive ability, who rail against politicians without digging deeper to understand what matters to those who vote for them.

On April Fool’s Day, 1982, Jonathan Raban set sail from Fowey in Cornwall to circumnavigate the British Isles in a two-mast sailing boat kitted out as a one-man floating home. Travelling widdershins, his plan was to stay close to shore, stopping off regularly to meet with locals and gain a feel for the places where they lived – research for the book he was planning. He had never before taken charge of a boat. A retired naval commander spent a fortnight teaching him the basics. The rest he learned from books and then experience.

The journey ended up lasting four years – four circuits. Ashore, the media were covering: the Falkland’s War, the Miner’s Strike, Diana fever. Many of the British people he encountered had more prosaic concerns. Unemployment was rife, traditional jobs disappearing taking with them a way of life generations in the making. In their place came tourism – Britain as a theme park for increasing numbers of foreign visitors. Opportunities were in service rather than manufacture.

The author is the son of a war veteran turned CofE clergyman. He was educated at the same minor, public school as his father – an inexplicable parental decision given what he had to endure there. Coasting is as much memoir as travel journal. The personal reminiscences are skillfully woven into the stories of storms at sea and encounters on shore. There are also pleasing asides detailing other gentlemen’s sailing adventures over several centuries. Raban is far from the first to have decided time at sea would offer a welcome escape from a life stifled by the practical demands of finance and family.

There is much humour but also insight on offer. The writing is well balanced between details of shore time adventures and the challenges of life at sea. Raban comes to view familiar places through the lens of a tourist, albeit one who wishes to delve beneath the surface of photographic memory making. It is the views of the locals that interest him along with his own reactions to their insularity.

Evocative and entertaining, this is travel memoir that peels back the veneer of Britain to expose the preoccupations of its people. Although evaluative it is written with understanding and generosity. A reminder that change is inevitable but will likely be railed against. An engaging and recommended read.

My copy of this book was provided gratis by the publisher, Eland.

Book Review: The Alchemist

The Alchemist: A Fable About Following Your Dream, by Paul Coelho (translator not credited), tells the story of a young shepherd who consults a gypsy and then meets an enigmatic king. The boy is encouraged to follow his dream which involves abandoning his nomadic existence in Andalusia and seeking treasure at the Egyptian pyramids. Along the way he is robbed and beaten. He must find work if he is to continue his journey. He opens himself to the possibility of omens and must decide when to share what he learns from these.

The boy recognises that he must choose between regarding himself as a victim or an adventurer. Although looking to his future, to fulfilling his quest, the importance of living in the present is often reiterated. The boy learns from every experience, including that a universal language exists to enable deeper understanding of self, other people and place.

The fable-like narrative is spiritual but not favouring any particular religion. Rather it encourages the reader to take time to observe surroundings and engage with nature.

I was somewhat put off the story by the buried treasure aspect – despite the obvious metaphor – and the repeated references to God. I enjoyed the appreciation of nature and the boy’s acceptance of setbacks – how he reasoned in order to find ways to continue. The story of his journey, personal and practical, is a device to pass on the author’s perceived wisdom. I wonder if he regards himself as the titular alchemist.

This wasn’t the tale I expected when I requested the book based on its many rave reviews. Although offering occasional nuggets of wisdom, I found progress slow in places. Evocative and smoothly written as it is, I am reluctant to recommend.

The Alchemist is published by Harper Collins.