27th January 2024
Another week by the pond, and not much to report. Plenty of rabbits, a definite need for an AI application to filter them out of the videos. A grey squirrel, an import from the USA, unfortunately it has found the bird feeders now, but has not learnt to climb. A sighting of a Muntjac deer most evenings. One sighting of a Fox.
20th January 2024
As the new year begins, it is the season for foxes to find a home to raise their young. Next to our field pond, there is a large mound of earth that is friendly to wildlife. Rabbits use it to dig their burrows. In early January, when the weather was sunny, many birds came to feed amongst the fallen leaves. We saw starlings, redwings, fieldfares and garden birds, including a cheeky blue tit that pecked at the camera. We also had many rabbits, a squirrel who luckily has not discovered the bird feeders, and a mouse. The fox visited several times, inspecting the holes. It won’t be long before the rabbits move out for a while when the fox cubs arrive.
Please ignore the date on the camera, the day and time are correct, but the month is wrong. This is January, not March.
16th January 2024
Our regular Tuesday adventures resumed after a short break, and what a crisp, sunny, yet undeniably cold, day it was! The journey up the M40 was smooth, leading us to a pleasantly bustling car park at Baddesley Clinton, an imposing moated manor nestled in the Warwickshire countryside.
Stepping through the grand entrance, we were immediately drawn to the house itself, a captivating blend of Tudor and Elizabethan architecture with a rich history. Despite the valiant efforts of the National Trust volunteers, who were adorned in layers to combat the barely double-digit room temperatures, the house retained a distinct chill, a poignant reminder of its turbulent past. One volunteer said one of their number was wearing a heated gilet. Sensible type, we thought.
The knowledgeable room guides, ever eager to share their insights, expertly navigated us through the maze of chambers and corridors. Among the treasures, the priest hole captivated our imagination. Hidden behind a bookshelf, its intricate construction, crafted by one Nicholas Owen, spoke volumes of the Catholic refuge Baddesley Clinton offered during a period of religious persecution. Owen was described on an information board as “the renowned” builder & designer of priest holes. Presumably, that was a posthumous accolade?! He was canonised in 1970. One of the priests, Father John Gerard, who sheltered there, led a highly adventurous life. He was one of few people who escaped from the Tower of London and later wrote “The Autobiography of a Hunted Priest”. But was he sheltered at Baddesley? R needs to read the autobiography.
After venturing through the historical tapestry of the house, we craved warmth and sustenance! Two steaming vegetable and bean chillies later, we felt suitably fortified for further exploration. The bookshop beckoned, and while R searched, I found a science fiction section, adding to my enormous collection of To Be Read books.
Finally, before bidding farewell to Baddesley Clinton, I couldn’t resist capturing the house’s reflection in the moat. The stark contrast between the frozen waters on the north side and the ice-free surface on the south was a curious reflection of the house itself – a microcosm of history’s uneven flow, where secrets lie hidden beneath a seemingly placid surface?
Baddesley Clinton offered more than just a pleasant excursion; it was a journey through time, a glimpse into the resilience of faith and the ingenuity of those who sought solace in its walls.
21st December 2023
On a damp, dark, cloudy day we visited Chedworth Roman Villa. This villa has been partially excavated, with protective shelters built over the top of some of the remains. Viewing of the floors and hypocausts are from walkways above. There’s a smallmuseum of finds.
We arrived along some narrow roads and parked beside the road some 200 meters from the site. The main parking was full, and there was a coach party of schoolchildren. Guided tours were available, but Rosemary and I, seeking a self-paced exploration, opted for the audio guide. It offered various options, from factual narrations about the villa’s history to playful dramatizations of life during Roman times. We decided to stick to the plain facts, eager to unravel the secrets embedded in the ancient stones.
Before delving into the ruins, we refuelled in the cozy cafe, relishing a warming coffee. After the tour we ate a light lunch there amidst the clean and cheerful ambiance. I imagine on a sun-drenched summer day, the surrounding areas would transform into a delightful picnic haven, the open air adding to the charm of the place. Somehow R managed to find their small secondhand book shop.
Our exploration along the raised walkways, overlooking fascinating remains showed us:
o – Roman Mosaics: Exquisite floors crafted from tiny coloured stones
o – Hypocausts: These ingenious underfloor heating systems, utilizing hot air channels, warmed the Roman floors and baths, offering a glimpse into their sophisticated approach to comfort.
o – Toilets: These were explained in all their glory details to the listening school kids.
Our online research unveiled a curious detail – Chedworth Roman Villa is apparently home to a thriving population of Roman Snails! These intriguing creatures, protected by their unique status, add a touch of biodiversity to the historical site.
19th December 2023
This week, our outing was to the National Museum of Computing, near Bletchley Park. It’s a separate museum with cool old working computers, like the code-breaking machines Colossus and Bombe (though Colossus was sadly off that day). They even have a recreation of the EDSAC computer from Cambridge University!
Seeing the IBM 370/165 brought back memories from my university days, writing programs on that clunky machine. I swear, it always kept me waiting with those compilation errors! And was it just me, or did Cambridge get a dud? It didn’t even have virtual storage at first, which cost a huge chunk of money to add. My next job had a smaller 370, one that actually did have virtual storage, thankfully.
After the big machines, the museum had an awesome collection of personal computers, from Sinclairs to Pets and early IBM PCs. Some were even working! They also had a cool collection of old mobile phones and organizers. It reminded me about cleaning out our office desk at work, full of outdated tech.
After the museum, we headed to IKEA for some classic Swedish meatballs, mash, and gravy. Delicious!
So, a fun day of tech nostalgia and yummy food!
16th December 2023
After a delightful dose of classic cars at the British Car Museum, we car enthusiasts (well, maybe a little obsessed!) couldn’t resist a visit to Polestar’s offices in Bicester Heritage. It wasn’t just for holiday cheer though, we were treated to a sneak peek at their mind-blowing concept car. They took the best parts of the top three design submissions and magically merged them into one incredible machine. It was a real feast for the eyes, even if its super-low front spoiler wouldn’t exactly handle Buckinghamshire’s roads with grace.
Speaking of real-world options, they also had their sporty Polestar 2 BST on display, plus a left-hand drive version of the brand new Polestar 3 SUV. I took a peek inside the 3 and let me tell you, it’s a beast. Spacious, luxurious, and unfortunately, a bit beyond my budget for now.
But the best part wasn’t the cars (although they were amazing), it was connecting with fellow car lovers from the ‘Polestar Drivers Club UK‘ Facebook Group. I even spotted Rik, the group’s resident pun king, spreading festive cheer with his hilarious wordplay. All in all, it was a fun way to celebrate ta few spare hours with fellow petrolheads (or should that be “electroheads”?).
For those who don’t know Polestar, Polestar is a Swedish electric performance car brand, known for their sleek and sustainable vehicles. Their Bicester Heritage location is a multi-purpose hub, housing their UK commercial headquarters and a “Polestar Space” showroom. A Polestar Space is where customers can experience the brand and its products firsthand, including test drives. You then configure , and order, your car on their website and it is delivered to your home.
11th December 2023
We decided our Tuesday outing would take place on Monday, the weather being the deciding factor. It was time to see a National Trust house dressed for winter. As members we resent paying to see a dressed NT house, so that was Waddesdon off the list. In recent years we have visited most Christmas dressed NT houses in the area, so decided to go a little further afield. We chose Mottisfont Abbey, it also seemed the rest of the world had also chosen this bright sunny day to visit. The car park was almost full, there was a thirty minute wait to get into the house. In hindsight, we should have had an early lunch or elevenses, and then visited the house, the queue certainly dissipated nearer 2pm.
The house had been decorated for Christmas along the theme of letters to Father Christmas and a visit to the North Pole (including a train!) with masses of trees and letters. Santas little helpers were busy organizing the presents to be delivered, along with lists of which children had been naughty or nice. Seems Stephen had been naughty. I loved the boys room, with a wigwam tent in the middle of the floor silhouetting the boys as they plotted to wait up and see Father C, and an electric model train (R thought “0” guage? LGB?) circling the room.
The winter garden was worth a visit. The walk along the river was alas closed. The ground was a little soggy underfoot, in fact we saw many flooded fields en route and masses of Old Man’s Beard in the hedges.
5th December 2023
For years, the signs for the British Motor Museum in Gaydon on the M40 have teased us. We’d always meant to stop, but never found the time. Finally, the day arrived, and we embarked on our automotive adventure.
The museum isn’t just one building, but two. On our visit, there was also a conference happening, adding a buzz of excitement to the atmosphere. We even arrived in our Swedish designed, Chinese Built electric car, feeling a bit unpatriotic amongst the classic British exhibits.
Stepping inside, we were greeted by a timeline of British car history, with models from the late 1800s all the way up to modern marvels. It was fascinating to see how designs evolved, from early, clunky beginnings to sleek, aerodynamic beauties. The increase in the size of cars was startling.
Another area showcased futuristic concept cars, hinting at what our roads might hold in the future. Meanwhile, a film buffs’ dream awaited: British cars used in movies, including James Bond’s trusty Land Rover from Skyfall.
Leaving the first building, we crossed over to the second, home to a dazzling array of Jaguars and Land Rovers, alongside classic cars from other British marques. Each one whispered stories of engineering prowess and design audacity.
Overall, our visit to the British Motor Museum was a real treat. We were thoroughly impressed by the collection’s breadth and fascinating stories. The best part? Our tickets are valid for a year, so we can delve deeper into the world of British motoring on another day.
So, if you’re ever near Gaydon and have a passion for cars, the British Motor Museum is definitely worth a stop. You might just be surprised by the rich history and captivating tales found within its walls.
18th November 2023
Rosemary and I attended the Gonville and Caius Commemoration of Benefactors Chapel Service and Dinner. The event is held annually to commemorate the benefactors of the college, naming the major benefactors since the foundation of the college on the 28th January 1384 by Edmund Gonville. (John Caius, the third founder, appeared in 1557.) The Commemoration of Benefactors service took place in the college chapel at 6.00pm. The service was followed by a feast in the hall, which was arranged in accordance with the memorandum of the second founder, William Bateman, dated 6 November 1352.
The celebrations began with tea in the Fellows Combination Room, where we met up with friends Richard & Andrea.
We then heard a lecture by Ms Merryn Somerset Webb, a Bloomberg Columnist. Apparently, she is an award-winning commentator on economics, financial markets, and personal finance, as well as a popular speaker and broadcaster. Her new book, Share Power, looks at how ordinary people can use the power they already have to make capitalism work for everyone. Ms Somerset Webb studied Economics at Caius in 1989, but later changed her degree course to History, as she wanted a first-class honours degree and was not going to achieve that in Economics (her thoughts not mine). Her lecture was very contentious, and in some cases, especially about renewable electricity, extremely contentious and to my mind plain wrong. She was baiting the audience and expected some comment on her renewable stance. She then launched into monetary policy, declining birthrates, immigration, and ownership of business. Some of this I did agree with, though her contentious thoughts on renewable energy will only have us fry.
After the lecture, we attended the Chapel Service. After the service, we made our way to the Senior Combination Room for drinks, and then to the hall for supper. The feast is a several-course meal with grace, matching wines and an address from the Master. Towards the end, the Caius Choir entertained us with various songs including ‘Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da’.
Following the meal, we retired to the Fellows Combination Room where we drank AnCnoc, a highland malt, cognac, and mingled with other guests, fellows, and choir members. It was interesting talking to the choir members, undergraduates, who seemed so earnest in their studies, a far cry from my days.
Well after midnight, we enjoyed a stroll across Jesus Green, disturbing a fox who was scavenging for food. He darted away in front of us and through a fence into a garden. We made it back to the hotel after 1.00am.
Ferat Prestige
Port poached chicory & goats cheese mousse: Quince purée, Romano pepper, avocado & lime emulsion.
Bodegas Rafael Palacios ‘As Sortes Val do Bibei’ Godello, 2016
Leek & Halibut torchon: Suffolk chicken crumble, preserved lemon, tarragon split oil sauce, and shiso.
Leek & Aubergine “cannelloni”: Delica pumpkin ketchup, samphire bhaji, spiced radish, and pepper XO. (V)
Agnes et Dider Dauvissat Chablis Premier Cru Beauroy, 2020
Loin of Norfolk Venison: Orange poached carrots, broccoli & watercress purée, fondant potato, and blackberry.
Jerusalem artichoke & wild mushroom pithivier: Orange-poached carrots, cauliflower pomme purée, and broccoli & onion jus. (V)
Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru, Les Vaucrains, Domaine Jean Chauvenet, 2014
Dark chocolate ganache: Cornish clotted cream diplomat, orange compote, whiskey crispy oats, and milk sorbet.
Ridge Vinyards, Lytton Springs, 2013
Dessert, Coffee and chocolates
Ch. Leoville Barton, Saint Julien, 2eme Cru Classe, 2005
Ch. Doisy Daene, Barsac, 2009
Graham 1970
Post prandials
AnCnoc 12yrs Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Maxime Trijol Grande Champagne VSOP Cognac
13th November 2023
We embarked on another winter adventure, returning to the charming Portmeirion Hotel. The food is delicious, the scenery stunning, and there’s always something new to discover. While I dream of seeing the gardens in bloom or catching a ride on the mountain railway, a winter visit offers its own unique charm.
Our journey began with a quick lunch and “splash and dash” charge (electric vehicle top-up) at Tesco in Welshpool. Next stop: Porthmadog, where we parked at Tesco again for a slower, cheaper than the hotel charge. We explored the town, browsed charity shops, and enjoyed tea and cake at the Portmeirion Kitchen Shop. A visit to the Purple Moose Brewery is definitely on the list for next time!
Reaching the hotel, we checked in at Castell Deudraeth and drove to the residents’ parking. I wanted a full charge for a later outing, which slightly delayed the porter (who doesn’t love an extra task?). To my surprise, I ended up helping other residents who weren’t as prepared with charging apps as I was!
Our room, Neptune 1, felt familiar and comforting – a first for us to stay in the same room twice. That evening, we savoured a fantastic meal at the Portmeirion Hotel.
The next day, we spent the morning wandering the extensive gardens and woods – a full day adventure if you wish. In the evening, we opted for dinner at Castell Deudraeth. A buggy ride sounded tempting, but we chose to walk along the lit pathways. The roaring fire in the foyer and another excellent meal warmed us from the inside out. As we strolled back to our room under a star-studded sky, the silence and peacefulness were blissful. Who says it always rains in Wales? Despite the gloomy forecast, we were blessed with sunshine and barely a drop of rain.
Exploring the surrounding area was our plan for the third day. Blaenau Ffestiniog and Cwmorthin Waterfall were first on the list. But upon arrival, a sea of school buses and excited children convinced us to find a quieter spot. Undeterred, we attempted another waterfall, only to encounter even narrower roads. Zip World and the slate mines, promised as being open on their website, remained frustratingly closed with only a handwritten note on the actual door (several hundred yards from the entrance). Pah!
Seeking sustenance and local charm, we found ourselves at the Lakeside Cafe, bustling with friendly locals and a few tourists. Their delicious soup and bread hit the spot. Apparently, a walk to the waterfalls is possible from here, though parking for the waterfalls was forbidden.
Our afternoon drive was a scenic treat, taking us through Betws-y-Coed (outdoor gear galore!), Capel Curig, Beddgelert, Porthmadog, and back to Portmeirion. The sun peeking through the clouds cast a magical light on the extremely cold landscape.
Back at the hotel, we enjoyed a final delicious meal before charging the car for the journey home. The drive was uneventful, except for a free charge at a Starbucks in West Bromwich! My card wouldn’t work, and a kind man rescued me from my embarrassment. It turned out he was from IONITY and was maintaining the chargers.
Our winter escape to Portmeirion was a delightful mix of familiar comfort, unexpected challenges, and stunning scenery. It’s a reminder that even the “off-season” holds its own unique beauty and adventures. Until next time, Portmeirion!
