We had the perfect window seat for breakfast so once again we sat and lingered enjoying the atmosphere and view.
The forecasted weather wasn’t favourable but we decided to stick with our plan to visit Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal. The weather was cloudy with the occasional burst of sunshine leading to an ever changing palate of autumn colours. We enjoyed our walk around the grounds, remembering some views from our previous visit which I estimate was over 20 years ago! Where does all the time go?
We had lunch in the National Trust Café, I chose Yorkshire Parkin, which was delicious and filling. Unfortunately the food and drink was served on disposable plates, cups and cutlery.
By the time we left the café it had started to rain so we headed to Ripon thinking that we might visit the Cathedral. After a walk around the town we noticed people in elegant clothing arriving at the Cathedral and realised that a church event must be taking place and it was inappropriate to go in. Reluctantly, we left Ripon and drove back to Harrogate, taking the scenic route.
Back in Harrogate, we headed into town and visited a board game shop that we had spotted previously. We were checking an idea for a Christmas gift and also the possibility of board game to play on a rainy afternoon in Harrogate. The shop was busy, making it hard to see the games let alone focus on what might be a suitable game for the circumstances. We left empty handed, chose not to join the long queue at Betty’s and returned to the hotel for a cup of tea.
Not to be thwarted in my Board Game quest I checked the top 100 on the Board Game Geek website for the game that had caught my eye; 7 Wonders Duel. It was near to the top of the list. I left my cup of tea brewing and headed out into the wind and rain, purchased the game and was back at the hotel within 15 minutes.
My cup of tea was warm and waiting for me when I got back. We thoroughly enjoyed playing the new game although, as usual for a first play, we got some of the rules wrong.
We dined in the hotel, I chose sea bass followed by lemon tart for dessert. Mr C chose steak which, when it arrived, was unfortunately cold putting a bit of a damper on the evening. The bill was discounted to compensate for the problem. We had a nightcap in the bar and one last chat with the bar tender that had looked after us during our stay.
Yes when people in elegant clothing are arriving at the Cathedral, it is probable that a church event is taking place but that doesn’t mean it is inappropriate to go in. Cathedrals are at their best when they are being active. So I would have plopped a hat on my head, straightened my dress and joined in
We weren’t sure what service it was. We suspected it was Remembrance Day service but it could also have been a funeral. If it was the latter we didn’t want to intrude on a personal occasion.
We were dressed for walking and not a formal occasion.
i agree with you about the view while enjoying a meal. it is a pity about disposables – the amount of trash with every meal and beverages served in paper cups!
They claimed there was a problem that day leading to the need for disposables.
All’s well that ends well, Cherie – after a rather frustrating day
It was a lovely day
It was only Ripon that didn’t work out in the way we had planned.
I love Harrogate! My last couple of trips there have been for the Crime Writing Festival.
I have not heard of the Crime Writing Festival, although I know that is where Agatha Christie turned up after her famous disappearance!
Mention Harrogate and I instantly think ‘Fat Rascal’
Andrew
It needs two sittings to eat one of those.
Fair thee well on your journey. I will miss your photographs and thoughts xx