Ducks Patch

Hampton was first visited early in the stay in England We decided to go again, this time to see what we missed. The kitchen were still huge  The fire was still burning The Gargoyles were just as numerous   And colourful The Apartments just as large The stair just as large But this time the Gardens were open and a display that was worth visiting The bees were active on all the flowers And the walled gardens were impressive. The flower were great to study. All with the massive palace in the back ground.

I went to the Peak District with the ward's YM So off we went to the  for a Hike Across the stepping stones The boy were boyant and keen walking in the valley floor The Valley floor was along a cool stream in the summer heat, this was welcome. The view magnificent. The boys got well ahead of us. Dovedale was the turning point. The Town had no car and everything is hauled in. The  hike quickly went up out of the floor and  quickly in the heat, but the views were of the  Peak District The towns were spotted by the church towers The highest point was a good spot to rest and let bishop catch a breath. The decent was back into the valley Back to the stream, and the cool to finish the hike.  A good day had by all.

Portchester Castle is an English Heritage site Wed decided to head down there with a YW in tow,  Anglea is a friend and she hadn't been out for a while. We arrived to find a peaceful castle With Romans fighting inside. It is a weekend called the "clash of the Romans" Local guys had dressed up and were acting scenes. A great display was put on. The little church of St Mary's in the middle even had a wedding going on. The costumes were very well made and on show.  It was a hot day and these guys were proud to be wearing it. And the Crowd was not too large. during a break, we went up into the castle itself. where we got to see the castle and the harbor. After we went to watch a falconry Display With Harriers, Owls, Eagles and   They were very skilled  But for me, it was the Hobbie.