Unforeseen circumstances led us to setting off later than we had planned but once we were on our way our journey ran smoothly. The route was just as tedious as we remembered it from our previous visit to Norfolk, although on this occasion we arrived without a cracked windscreen.

We broke our journey at Cambridge services for lunch. The options were limited and uninspiring, leaving me to succumb to the call of a Crispy Kreme doughnut which was plain, simple and delicious.

Our long journey required a second break for a refreshing drink before continuing our journey to the Assembly House where we were staying for the first part of our two centre holiday.

On arrival at the Assembly House, we checked into the B&B and were shown to our amazing room which had an outside patio area that was just perfect for the hot sunshiny days that we were being treated to.

We unloaded the car and chilled out on the balcony with a cup of tea and homemade biscuits that we found in our room. The weather was so warm and lovely that it was just calling for a glass of wine to enjoy on the patio.

Mr C went out to recce the area and find out where we had booked in for our evening meal. He returned with a nice bottle of Rose wine which we enjoyed whilst I was relaxing with one of my colouring books and pencils.

We dined in Middleton’s Steak Bar where I opted for a chicken burger. There were several fish options which I would normally choose but the following day we were having ‘Afternoon Seas’ for lunch, a fishy version of afternoon tea.

Before returning to our billet for an earlyish night we had an after-dinner drink in the Murderers & Gardeners arms which we found to be cosy and friendly.

My only walk today was around town shopping for hair essentials for mum. I parked in a distant car park so that I could get some steps in. I had intended to go for a more leisurely walk in the afternoon but the rain and ‘thunder’ led me to stay at home and do some household chores instead.

I was satisfied with my afternoon activity but it meant I fell a bit short on my mileage for the day.

Later in the day the clouds lifted and the rain subsided which meant that we could enjoy ‘fine dining’ on the patio.

The first time it was warm enough to dine out at Chez Nous Mr C seized the opportunity for his first barbeque of the year. I took the photo before some chicken pieces were added.

After dining we lingered a while, the warmth of the burning embers taking the chill of the evening air.

Chicken Piccata Escalope with Fennel & Pea Salad

I was sitting home alone on the patio as the sun went down when I heard an unexpected rustle in the sun parched greenery and looked up to see this little guy. What a lovely treat for me.

The young blackbird with his distinctive personality also graced me with his presence as did a fleeting bat.

The photos aren’t brilliant I only had my phone to hand.

The weather was hot and humid so I waited until the late afternoon for my walk, choosing a route with plenty of shade.

Today was a scorcher with the temperature reaching 84F as I arrived home after an afternoon four miler.

I walked to Leegomery Pool where I sat and lingered for a while watching the fish just under the surface of the pool. Occasionally as the fish swam a fin emerged above the water level reminding me of Nessie (in Lock Ness). I continued my walk via a long loop to Apley woods where I chose to walk in the woodland rather than the metaled pathways. I sat a while watching the ducks on the duck pool before making my way home along the local bridle pathway.

Much later after I had cooled down I enjoyed ‘Fine Dining’ on the patio with Mr C.

And much later the bats graced us with their presence