Diana and I left about 9.30 and, after finding the A40 closed had a long and, at times, arduous journey, got to glorious countryside north of Shap.
Can't identify this growing in the huge topiary.
Our accommodation in Greystoke, the Boot and Shoe.
After a rather mediocre supper at the pub we went to a concert in the local church to hear a male voice choir. As we arrived they sang Hallelujah finishing with another of my favourite songs the American trilogy.
Old friend Nic was here. I bought the little lidded pot on the left.
More of these huge pots - seems to be a northern thing.
We found this little village Newbiggin with huge topiary, a pretty but seemingly abandoned house on our way to Greystoke.
The sign says not to park there, which is odd seeing it is in the middle of weeds with no hard standing.
Tom Nash has transformed this ancient castle into a thriving event venue. It belongs to the Howards and the oldest part is 1069. The family sold up the contents about 5 years ago.
Burroughs made this the fictional home of Tarzan and in the pub are many Tarzan shots and film posters.
Lovely views.
Rather noisy trying to sleep over the pub.
A few miles towards Penrith we found Potfest. Lots of potters I knew and many I did not. Well laid out and no rain.
Quite a few huge woodfired pots.
We stopped at the famous Tebay farm services full of people, then had a straight run until near Birmingham where 45 minutes was wasted.