Appleby

Even the name is quaint! When I travelled in Africa, I met two women that became good friends...Liz, who lives in Appleby, Yorkshire and Stephanie, who lives in NYC. We had the idea that we would try and meet up in England before I went home and the beginning of June seemed like a good time for Steph to come over to England as it was the week of the Appleby Fair. If you've never heard of this, it is similar to the series " My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding". The dates were set and on June 4th I headed to Manchester Airport to meet Steph before heading to Penrith, where we would be picked up by Liz. I left pretty early in the morning in order to meet Steph but when I arrived in Manchester, I found out her flight was delayed and we would miss our train.  The system here is crazy, if you pre-purchase your ticket at least a week in advance, it's a reasonable price. If you buy your ticket close to, or on the day of travel, you will pay near double the rate. No changes allowed. It drives me crazy! When I realised we would not make our train, I went to the office, batted my eyes and begged for consideration, which was granted, and I was given a ticket for the following train, no extra charge. Liz was at the station in Penrith to meet us. We picked up some supplies and headed to Appleby.  Liz lives in a lovely house and we were made very welcome. She has two delightful little dogs who we played with and walked after we had a BBQ. We took a wander through the village, an old and very quaint village with a beautiful river running right through the town. Walking through a farmers field we came across a newborn foal, less than a day old. Such a beautiful little thing, I was transfixed. Another farm experience to cherish. The following day we went for a hike up into the surrounding hills. More beauty, more sheep and then to a pub for the obligatory half before heading home. Another great dinner and good time with new friends.   The next day, Liz made bacon buttys for breakfast and then we got in the car and headed to Keswick, another lovely village in the Lake district. Had a lovely time wandering through the quaint streets and around the shops. Had a bite to eat at a little outside cafe and then another drive and then headed to Penrith where I was to catch my train back to Liverpool. Steph was staying on so she could see (...take part in?!) the infamous Appleby Fair that was happening on the weekend. I was headed to Cornwall. I feel so blessed, once again, for the opportunity to meet up with friends I have met whilst travelling.  Next reunion, hopefully in NYC!