A Day to Remember - 9th November 2014

Well what a lovely sight we awoke to today, my reflection in the mirror, err, I mean a gorgeous sunrise with the sun blazing across the open fields through the haze, It didn't last that long as soon after the mist had rolled in, but it was to set the scene for the rest of the day.

Our day begun with us leaving the cottage around 10am in the direction of Helmsley, then an about turn a few miles later was required as we'd forgotten something from the cottage, then back along the road to Helmsley for the Remembrance Service. The earlier mist had now matured into a full scale attack of fog so the journey took us a little longer as we battled the low visibility, but we still arrived there in plenty of time.


We parked up in the square and as we had some time to kill we ventured into The Old Police Station Cafe for a hot drink. The decor and seating there was very nice and clean, and although we only had a hot drink we were impressed, I had a Mocha which was nice, but Donna's Hot Chocolate was gorgeous. Well worth another visit.

As it neared 11am we followed the band as it marched the short distance from the Market Square to the Church, then stood in silence with a crowd of around 500 people respecting the service. A very touching and respectful way to start our day.

The skies were now clear and blue, with the autumn sun visually warming up the seasonal colours in the fields and hedgerows as we headed the 10 or so miles to Castle Howard. We'd been to the stately home when we stopped up here in August, but that visit was focused on the house itself and the walled garden; today our aim was to walk around the parkland. In fact, the house was actually closed as they prepared for the Christmas period so we couldn't have gone in anyway.


We spent close to 4hrs walking in the grounds enjoying the multiple delights that are on offer, and of course taking lots of photos which is a must on such a nice day. It does amaze me though how when areas are clearly marked asking people not to go past the signs, that they just ignore them and do what they want; very frustrating. Although a little annoying it didn't really spoil our day, I mean beautiful weather, a gorgeous house and grounds and great company; what more could you want on a November day?

On our way out we spent some time in the garden centre looking for a bargain, but only ended up buying a bird feeder and nuts! And as we'd not eaten since breakfast all we wanted to do now was return to the cottage to eat, crank up the heating, close the curtains and lock ourselves away for the evening.

More photos here.

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