Warning: Little organization of information, random descriptions and reflections.
We chose to end our time in Europe with a road trip to England. After turning in the rental car, we flew to Stansted, UK, picking up a new rental. Orienting to the left side of the road for driving, we made our way to Yorkshire (via Cambridge and Stratford.) The sights of this region are somewhat familiar due to the plethora of television shows and movies filmed here.
Our first stop was Haworth, home to the Brontë Sisters. We immediately felt we had stepped back in time, as much of the original architecture remains, and moors surround us. We chose to stay at a guest house on a street in front of the rectory where the Brontë lived most of their lives. It is easy to visualize the moods of Heathcliff or the hard upbringing of Jane Eyre.
Charlotte, Emily, and Anne Brontë resided with their father, Patrick, a curate at St Michael & All Angels Church. Widowed, he encouraged education and creativity, which served the sisters well. The rectory houses a plentiful bookstore.
The innkeeper and our hosts at dinner were all super friendly. A couple who were vacationing in the area helped us orient ourselves. Yorkshire meals are quite large, so we quickly learned to either share a meal or order small. I thought Yorkshire tea would be strong, but it was just perfect, and I enjoyed many pots of it. Clotted cream and vanilla fudge is divine.
The next stop was Halifax and the countryside, filming areas of “Last Tango in Halifax,” “Happy Valley,” and “Gentlemen Jack.” We stayed at Holdsworth House, an inn from the seventeenth century, and were allowed to sit at a table used for a scene in “Last Tango in Halifax.” People continue to be outgoing and enjoy sharing information. I had a 30 minute conversation about my favorite British television shows and actors with the owner of a local launderette.
We then moved on to eastern Yorkshire, staying one night in Hull and three nights in York. Sticky toffee pudding with custard is yummy. While driving is conducted on the left side of the road, walking is anyone’s game and can be treacherous, especially on cobbled streets. The best museum experience, York’s Chocolate Story explains the birth of Kit Kats. The historic centre is surrounded by Roman walls. The River Hull and River Ouse were busy but the water was brown and ugly looking. Sunday is the time to walk in the park. I forgot my promise to order less and threw away about 3/4th of a traditional Sunday roast.
Final thoughts: Few places provided washcloths. Ice is available but less appreciated than Americans. Fast food franchises are dominated by American businesses. The motorways are narrow but have multiple “service areas” for personal needs. Frequent rain makes one appreciate sunny days. I prefer the small towns to larger cities. Again, everyone we have met has been happy and helpful.