Last camp of the summer....

We try and get away in September - last camp of the summer before we pack everything away. Weather is usually mixed, and often cold. This year was different. We went to Hope, two tents and a camper van (for the old people...), got there Friday late afternoon, and after the usual arguments over putting the tents up, had some drinks and nibbles in the very balmy evening sun. Then off into Hope for a pub meal, and back for a nightcap.Despite the time of year, no blankets, or slankets, were needed, and we sat outside quite happily until bedtime.

Next  morning we had a communal breakfast - everyone cooking something - and then walked to Castleton. It's a nice stroll which takes about 90 minutes along the bottom of Loose Hill, with some lovely views of Pevril Castle. Into Castleton past a playground and farm shop with lots of small animals, and a coffee at the Cinnamon Twist, closely followed by some retail therapy in the gift shops. Lunch in a pub, what else, and then we walk back to Hope along the river. Lots of crab apples seem to be thrown from the end of sticks along this stretch.

A BBQ in the evening followed by lots of toasted marshmallows. We did venture into the camper van, but that was mainly to keep the noise down rather than because it was cold. During the night we heard that terrible sound of rain, and in the morning the tents were wet. We managed another communal breakfast, and  then chucked our tent into the back of the car to dry when we got home.

A great weekend - good weather and good company. I do love camping!

The 39 Steps

In London at the moment for two conferences, and luckily had a free night last night. When that happens I like to treat myself to a night out on my own, usually a meal and a show. Last night I walked from my hotel in Lancaster Gate to Piccadilly Circus, which entailed walking almost the full length of both Oxford Street and Regent Street. So many shops, so little time! I was on my way to The Criterion Theatre to see The 39 Steps, on a recommendation from a friend and my son.

The theatre was lovely, very old and originally a Music Hall, the corridors lined with original tiles. The play was, well different. Definitely following the story of John Buchan's famous novel, but in the form of a comedy. Only 4 actors, one playing Richard Hannay, one the 3 female parts, and the other two playing, well everything else. Policemen, farmers, hotel staff... You name it. Hilariously funny and well worth seeing.

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