So, I went away for a few days during half term. I don't think it'll take long for you to guess where I was...
The bikes and the punts should give it away. Cambridge.
I had a really good break, even though it's quite a long drive from here. I chose a bog standard hotel that was in the centre after humming and hawing over a pretty place that was out of town. I'm glad I did, as I parked the car up in a secure locked carpark and then just walked everywhere. Much cheaper and better for you.
If you like history, food, shopping in any or all of those combinations then I'm sure you'd like it as well.
I had been to Cambridge once before, a long long time ago when my cousin lived in a village nearby. Some things have changed and some remain the same. The throngs of foreign tourists being one of the latter.When I last visited it was in summer and the sun was blazing down. This time it was a bit drizzly but this didn't detract in the least.
The drive back though was horrendous, with driving rain and a motorway consisting of standing water and standing traffic for most of the way. Having tea for two for one (are you following?) just before setting off was a bit of a bad decision and a quick pit stop at some services was required!
I shall pull my finger out and show you some more highlights soon...
I haven't been to Cambridge for years. I liked it when I did though. I love the street with the chimneys at the front of the houses-most unusual! Glad you had fun even if the driving wasn't very good.
Posted by: Sarah | November 12, 2013 at 10:35 PM
It was those tall chimneys that gave it away for me (I've been reading Morse and Oxford was at the forefront of my brain). Cambridge is one of my favourite places to visit . It's very easy from here; sometimes we drive and park outside town and get the bus in and we get the long distance bus from the end of the road. So pleased that you had a lovely break.
Posted by: colleen | November 13, 2013 at 09:02 AM
At the risk of sounding like a complete nerd, aren't those chimneys in your last photo absolutely fantastic? My elder daughter only lives 30 miles from Cambridge, so I think a visit might be on the cards next time I'm there: it does look beautiful. Thank you.
Posted by: Jenny Debeaux | November 13, 2013 at 11:42 AM
your photos are very good !I used to like a few days away in winter, somewhere with lots to see and Cambridge is certainly that !
I found your blog last weekend and like it so much I've gone back to read the lot! this is proving expensive as I have ordered a birdy stamp set to rip off your christmas tag idea, a knitting pattern and large amount of wool and am already half the way up the back of a cardigan you've probably worn out and sent for re cycling ! The thing is that I really didn't need to start another project having two or three on the go already, but I just had to do it and I know you know that feeling....
I love seeing your house and all its quirks, my own is from a similar era though built of red brick not stone. We too have a bit of stained glass tho' some of it could do with a bit of TLC. and we need a couple of replacement windows but I want someone who can replace the victorian beauties and I'm not sure there is anyone who can.
Right back to dec 2009 for me !
thanks
Susan
Posted by: grey rabbit | November 13, 2013 at 05:17 PM
30 miles...I'd be there every weekend!!
Posted by: Rattling On | November 13, 2013 at 06:28 PM
Susan, glad you've found things in here to keep you busy!! The stamp sets are great, you can even make wrapping paper using brown paper or wallpaper lining paper. Very artisan...
Posted by: Rattling On | November 13, 2013 at 06:30 PM
We lived in Cambridgeshire for 18 months, but I think we only went to Cambridge once! The buildings look fabulous, and I love the chimneys!
Posted by: Anne Donald | November 13, 2013 at 06:33 PM
It's one of my favourite places to window-shop, but it is a nightmare to drive in, so I always use the Park and Ride. Would you have been going up the A14? That has to be one of the busiest roads in the country.
Posted by: Shandy | November 14, 2013 at 07:51 PM
The A14 was the starting point for the journey, then the M1! Just something to be got through...
Posted by: Rattling On | November 14, 2013 at 10:15 PM
Ah,lovely. Have to admit I've never visited. Must rectify that.
Posted by: Liz | November 15, 2013 at 08:08 AM