We have been having a wonderful visit back in the UK.  It is going by very quickly though, wish there was a way to slow it down.  Right now we are on the train to London on our way to Manchester.  Since our last visit they have put wifi on the trains so I can blog while we travel.  Which is great because with the diesel gala and day trips I haven’t had time!  

Mixed emotions today as it is hard to leave family but I am very excited to head up north as it’s been 13 years, which is far too long.  We’re staying with my friend that I’ve known for 42 years!  Since I was in nappies.  

While we were in Swanage we did a few day trips on the coast.  It was just breathtaking.  And a challenge!  With the steep climbs I really pushed my back.  I’m paying for it now but it felt really good to actually get up the hills.  Getting to the top makes it all worth it with the views.

The first coast trip was to Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door.  I have to say we’ve been incredibly lucky with the weather, sun for the whole trip with the exception of the last two days.  We both have a bit of a farmer’s tan.  

Here are some pics of that day.  I tried several times to load small video but the wifi can’t handle it.  It was becoming the definition of insanity!

The next day we drove to Portland Bill, a lighthouse on an island sticking out about six miles into the channel.  There is a guided tour to the top of the lighthouse and the guide showed us a map showing all the known shipwrecks in the immediate area.

A famous one, the Royal Adelaide, happened in 1872.  Because it happened close enough to the beach everyone was rescued.  Great success!  The next day they found 20 people dead on the beach.  Turns out some locals thought it would be a good idea to rescue the gin on the boat by drinking it.  They died of exposure.  Darwinism at work, unfortunately.

I have a few blog posts to do when we get back home including a Victorian Sponge.  Ooh la la.  😊.  But first we’re going to enjoy the last few days of our trip which include a visit to the East Lancashire Railway.  Should be fun!