Poplars Riverside Caravan Park, Haydon Bridge (N54.9695 W2.253) contd.

 Friday, 2nd September 2022

Despite the weather forecast, which predicted rain, we have a bright sunny day, 19c, a few clouds, but generally blue, and, a breeze from the East.

The plan for today is cycling, after studying the Sustrans Cycle Map, the plan is t cycle to Bardon Mill, with either no, or minimal cycling on the busy A69.

We first follow a signed trail, but, after we reach a farm, that becomes an unrideable (Mountain Bike territory). 

So, plan B, return to Haydon Bridge and follow the 'old road' through Haydon Bridge, inevitably we come to the A69. 

I have more success in convincing Kathleen to

take a chance and ride the four miles to Bardon Mill, along the A69, than I had in convincing her to attempt the Mountain bike trail, on a Hybrid Bike.

Not really enjoyable, too noisy, and, or course, the constant thought 'is some clown playing with their phone, instead of watching where they are going!". 

A very pleasant coffee and cake stop at Bardon Mill, at the village shop, which doubles up as everything, it would appear.

Then, a little further on NCN72. 

We could have returned via the NCN72 Hadrians Way cycle route, but, it was decided that risking the A69 again was better than the prospect of big hills!

Just over 14 miles, and, due to lack of concentration, when loading the video, we have both the front and rear view!

Saturday, 3rd September 2022

We wake up to rain, which eventually stops and we go walking.

A very pleasant 3.48 miles walk along the river bank, in the direction of Hexham.

Despite the overnight rain, the path is perfectly dry, which shows how parched the ground is I suppose.

Sadly, what appears to be the only coffee shop in Haydon Bridge (Oddfellows), is closed for some unknown reason.

Interesting development, this evening. 

Saturday evenings are usually 'Marks and Spencer Ready meal or Pizza night', after Kathleen has returned from Church, 'cooked' by me of course.

Tonight, we were due to have one of our (well my) favourites, Chicken Jalfrezi. 

Quite apart from it being very tasty, I have always thought it was a decent sized meal, particularly for a ready-meal, which are usually a bit skimpy. 

Although, I did think them a bit pricey at about £7 each, excluding the rice and/or naan bread.

I have, in the past, read the cooking instructions of course, but, tonight, I took the trouble to read the rest of the packaging. 

Much to my surprise, they are ready-meals for two!, so, we have been eating a meal for two, each, roughly once per month, for the last couple years. 

No wonder I thought the portion sizes were generous!

Sunday, 4th September 2022

Home today.