Backpackering 4 - Day 2

 

It is 64 years since I last stood on this platform. Back then it was a day visit to 'spot' Great Western engines.

So off to Porthmadog on a gloomy start to the day,

to be treated to its stunning scenery at Borth-y-Gest.

Can you spot the steam train?

Not much has changed since our last visit 8 years ago. 

Backpackering 4 - Day 1

 

Brunch at Coffi Co

before catching a train

to Shrewsbury and the River Severn whose water will, eventually, flow past our pier in Penarth. 

Walking the Severn river side path

to The Dingle.

A little different from our Dingle, don't you think.

Llanishen Reservoir.

 

Off for a walk around the lake.

A major upgrading was done between 2017 and 2020.

Including a new cafe where we had a lovely lunch.

Done Deal

 

Yesterday was completion day for the sale of 17.  So posh lunch to celebrate.

Then a stroll by the real castle, 

to see a family of 8 young swans reach maturity. 

Pasting Ship

 

Seen from Windsor Garden during our evening walk.

One Year on to the Day.

 

Twelve months ago saw us meeting our new friends at the Court BBQ. Martin and Don the cooks.

The  happy crowd 

Served by Spud the waiter.

Day Trip to Abergavenny

A visit to the castle after lunch at the market cafe. 

Brocken walls provide a photo  opportunity. 

A Visit to the Bay

For lunch at one of our favourite restaurants

Fried rice, very nice, spare ribs and mixed veggie. 😋 

Sunrise

 

Up early enough to catch the rise. 

Set Finished

 

The Emu last one, 12 months on.

Hidson Chairs Progress

With enough front legs and spacers for 4 chairs  

time to start on the rear legs.  

Rayso's Visit

 Whilst on a six months study assignment at Aston University, Rayso came to visit us just before her return home to the Philippines. It was lovely to spend time with our VSO friend, a bit of  catching up to do.

Roath Park

A short train ride, 

on an almost electrified track. 

Heath Park Model Railway

It is a modelled railway, honest. What an unexpected find.

And so realistic.

 We will be back when the trains are running. 

Heath Park

 A corner to relax in.

The Latest Oils

Valley Views for the common area.

Back to the Lathe

Turned to 2. 5mm. 

for a mahogany Hudson Valley chair next.

Crimson Rosella

The penultimate birdie done. 

 

Penarth Down Hill Derby Event

 Early morning Esplanade

with the fooderies getting ready for the crowds  to arrive.

 

 

 The woolly looking out for them too.

 

 

A couple of hours later

Mayhem!

Spot the down-hill racer?  

Sadly the event had to be cancelled after an injured racer had to be air lifted to hospital by a helicopter landing on the beach.  Reports say he was not seriously hurt. His pride for definite.

Alexandra Park

 

An estuary view,

and a walk through,

passing recently planted 🌼 beds.

Sailng Club Regatta

 

Off the end of the Penarth Pier.