The Three Horse Shoes

Tuesday 15th July: This local pub in Benson serves good food and great ales! We were introduced to this pub, and have been here a few times during this trip for group meals. We are led there along the historic Littleworth path, so no driving is required! The gourmet bangers and mash are well worth it, and the scampi is also very popular. Friendly company, a few pints of Loddon, and a long summer twilight, and what else do you need? This pub has many seats and tables, inside and in the walled garden outside, despite its small appearance at the front. As you enter the pub, just about everyone needs to duck until you pass the bar, then you can stand up properly. Thanks to Jon, Sheila, Katie, Luke and Chris for making our stay very welcoming and comfortable, and making these evenings such good fun!

Turville and Chilterns

Sunday 13th July: One place we had to visit locally was Turville, a beautiful part of the Chilterns, well known as the location for the 'Vicar of Dibley' and the film 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang'. The church in the village, and the windmill on the hill are recognisable as they were both used on the screen. We visited the very welcoming small church and had a local Brakspear ale at the 'Bull and Butcher' after walking around the valley and up and down the hill for some magnificent views of the surrounding countryside on a perfect English day.

Checkendon Black Horse

Sunday 13th July: This wondeful pub is in the heart of the Chilterns countryside, and only a very short drive, healthy cycle ride, or even a pleasant morning walk away from Benson. You can hit your head in this pub, but the atmosphere, country air, the baguettes and the ale is really worth the visit. We could easily come here every Sunday lunchtime! The rural setting is reinforced from the horses opposite over the fence greeting you as you arrive. Eight of us enjoyed lunch here in the English sun! Thank you, Jon and Sheila for taking us here!

Llandudno Pier

Monday 7th July: Its only a short drive of 1 hour along the marvellously engineered A55, under the Mersey River, across the River Dee, from Liverpool to Llandudno, arriving at this historic seaside town in North Wales. We stayed for 2 nights in 2 rooms on the top floor of a B&B, 'The Branstone', immaculate place, with comfortable beds, large rooms, friendly people and big English breakfasts. We had time for a walk along the promenade near the pier to breathe in the fresh sea air, after a hearty dinner at the Queen Victoria pub 2 blocks away from our stay. There is plenty to see and do. We'll certainly stay here again sometime in the future. What a great holiday town!