At last, the day had arrived and I was craving Patsy time more than ever. Overtime wise the half-term had been reasonable but the weather, numerous traffic issues and frequent diktats from above had made January drag even more than usual. Getting paid early in December didn’t help either! It was a long month in more ways than one.
But enough of the whinging – I’m more fortunate than many and was very much looking forward to another week away in my ageing but cosy home from home, up at Crystal Palace for my regular London fix. In December the site was granted another extension, allowing it to stay open for another year and I was swiftly on the phone to book – not wanting to faff about with the Caravan & Motorhome Club’s app.
Knowing that I was going to be pushed for time when I arrived I tried to pay the balance through the app, early that morning over a cuppa – but no joy. It would have saved a bit of time at check in but the app kept throwing up an error message. I decided to concede defeat before my blood pressure reached dangerous levels and instead headed for the shower.
Most of my gear had already been loaded into the car the previous few days, so there wasn’t much to haul downstairs in the morning – another long leather coat to add to those already in the car notwithstanding. I’ll never learn to travel light. Trev would certainly have had something to say about the amount of dead cow on board – as he did about most things!
First stop after defrosting the car was Sainsbury’s – fuel first then to the shop for a click & collect – whilst I brought a few batch cooked meals from home, we – that is Sandra, who I would be meeting at Euston later, and I - had decided to cook something for Sunday lunch in the van. I needed to make up the order with some wine. Oh well!
Patsy looked a bit sorry for herself in the storage yard, it had been a while since she’d had a clean outside and inside too wasn’t great. When I left her before Christmas I was planning to go away for New Year so hadn’t been too assiduous housekeeping wise. No matter, I had plenty of time before my intended departure to at least start getting her ship shape.
I’d had the battery at home since the last trip and on charge periodically but it was showing a distinct lack of enthusiasm once I connected it up. The lights barely glowed and it was unable to offer enough to spin the motor movers. Fortunately the van opposite was absent so there’d be no problem getting out of the yard but my reversing skills – such as they are – would likely be needed the other end. Time would tell if it was the battery or the smart charger at home that was at fault.
The journey up was pretty good and arrived on site soon after 1pm, check in was friendly and swift and after handing over the remaining folding, figuratively speaking, I went to pitch up. Patsy’s home for the week would be pitch 42 – pitches are allocated here – one I’d occupied many times before. I got Patsy roughly lined up and unhitched thinking I could either manhandle – or should that person handle – her into position or with a bit of luck, the battery had been replenished sufficiently to power the motor movers. I couldn’t and it hadn’t though there was some sign that the battery had taken some charge which was something.
I needed to get going so without even getting the legs down I hooked her up to the mains, hoping the onboard charger would do it’s stuff whilst I was away so I could position her properly on return.
Then it was off to Euston to meet Sandra who would be joining me for a few days. I’d normally do the whole journey by bus but time was of the essence so I hopped on the number 3 bus, changing at Brixton for the tube straight to Euston.
Sandra recalls:
It is February half term 2023 - Where do we go? London of course .......
It was only been two weeks since we were in London but nevertheless we both were looking forward to a programme of events during the break.
It’s Friday morning and we are both setting off with a rendezvous set at Euston station. Richard depositing Patsy at Crystal Palace club site and meeting me in Euston station. In the few days leading up to our respective departures, a very close eye was kept on the railway situation as has become the norm these days unfortunately. The week did not get off to a good start with the train I was to catch on the Friday being cancelled at very short notice. However by Tuesday it seemed to be back on track, by Friday I had some greater confidence that I would actually make it to London on the train that I had booked. Of course these days, it is essential to have a backup plan and indeed I did. Fortunately I did not have to do this and actually made it to London on the train I had booked with no changes!
Sandra had only been there a few minutes when I arrived and we headed back to the underground to do the journey in reverse. Traffic, once we’d got on the bus was kind although Brixton was heaving as per. Some temporary lights, not yet operational, at Herne Hill looked ominous though.
Back at Patsy the on board charger had done it’s stuff and we were able to get Patsy properly positioned swiftly, then I set about sorting the water, waste etc. A sit down with a cuppa was most welcome before a dinner of Tarragon Chicken, from home.
Sandra:
A very short rest, why you will see very shortly, saw us getting changed and driving to the theatre in Bromley. This was our second visit to the theatre and being able to drive to it a bonus. Richard had in his mind that the concert Rock of Ages started at 7:30 PM. It is about a 35 minute drive at that time of the evening to get to the theatre, park up and be at the door in good time.
I have to admit that upon walking into the courtyard area outside the front door and seeing only three people in front of us, I became somewhat concerned that we were late. It was dry, thankfully, but very cold. On speaking with the security guard on the door we were informed that we were an hour too early and the performance did not start until 8:30 PM! Some good-natured leg pulling followed however the security guards initial reluctance two let us sit and wait in the bar area was dispelled by the bar manager who obviously had and eye on his takings. As a result we passed an hour chatting having the odd drink and thawing out.
The show itself was fantastic, full of energy and with comfortable well-spaced seats in a modern theatre it was a very enjoyable evening. Kevin Kennedy played one of the central roles – perhaps better known as Curly Watts from Eastenders back in the day – though he was unrecognisable in costume.
Up and at ‘em early Saturday morning as we were heading to Windsor for the day and our location meant a combination of public transport – bus down to Sydenham, Overground to Whitechapel, Elizabeth line to Slough, then Network rail to Windsor & Eton. We didn’t wait long for any connection but it still took an hour and a half or so. Mind you, I’ve said it before – the Elizabeth Line is certainly a game changer when planning a route and on board it’s so much quieter and more comfortable than the Underground.
Sandra:
Saturday morning we awoke early as we had a busy day ahead of us. A quick breakfast and we were off to catch the bus at the top of the hill down to Sydenham to catch the Overground to Whitechapel. At our last visit we had worked out with the assistance of a platform guard that we could access the station without having to climb over the bridge each time. No complaints from me as I need to pace myself. At Whitechapel we changed to the Elizabeth line, I am still as impressed as I was last year with the sheer enormity of what they have achieved. There was some confusion over ticketing and the Oyster card limit. Transport for London really do need to make it much clearer what is required when travelling just outside their limit. Arriving at Slough, Richard identified the platform for the short 8 minute train journey to Windsor and Eton central railway station. The station has lifts to all platforms and progress was simple and relatively quick. We then boarded, what must be a very boring drive for the train driver, along a single track which is more or less a curved piece of track to arrive at Windsor and Eton. One can only imagine that without its destination, this branch line would not have survived.
There was time to grab a quick coffee before locating the nearest hop on/off bus stop which we’d pre booked. As we turned the corner into the High Street opposite Castle Hill there was a large armed police presence, along with a gathering crowd. We’d happened upon the Changing of the Guard – a real bonus. The replacements marched up the hill to the Castle then a short while later those going off duty came down, eventually to return to the nearby barracks. A great sight.
Traffic was released in between and we soon saw our tour bus approaching but it went sailing straight past! Conscious that there’d be a two hour wait for the next one Sandra got on the phone, only to be greeted by a recorded message. Plans were hastily amended and we had a wander up Castle Hill before taking an early lunch in the Carpenters Arms, which meant an early pint too. Oh well. One of the Nicholson’s chain of pubs, the food was good, served promptly and the environment was cosy – we both had winged back chairs on could have quite happily partaken of a nap after! Price wise it was the going rate down here and we certainly didn’t feel ripped off.
On the way to the bus stop Sandra spotted a waffle bar and dived in. I initially declined but it was clear from the dish full that she emerged with that some assistance was required. I duly obliged!
Fair to say it was bracing on the top deck but it afforded us the best view as we left the town and crossed Home Park before heading to Eton, past the famous school that has produced so many of our er, leaders. We then headed back, completing the circle around Home Park, passing the famous Long Walk on the way back to town. For eleven quid it was decent value and I’ll certainly return when it’s warmer and get off at some of the stops.
Sandra:
Following the bus tour we made our way slowly back to the station calling in at two further real ale pubs we found, primarily to thaw out!
We then made the short return journey to Slough and caught the train to Paddington.
Once we arrived in Paddington we made our way to the accessible facilities and were able to change into our clothes for the evening. We also had the opportunity to eat our packed tea in the warm, dry and sitting down!
We duly boarded the bus and made our way to Piccadilly and to St James’s church for the evening concert. It was a truly memorable event, well patronised and very atmospheric being full of candles.
The theme was ‘Valentine’s Moonlight & Rhapsody by Candlelight’ and the pianist for the evening one Warren Mailley-Smith was superb – and something of a star in the genre, we discovered later.
I occasionally listen to a bit of classical on the return bus journey at night, particularly after a stressful day and I recognised all the pieces he played – as I’m sure would you – though I’ve rarely heard them in full. Debussy, Chopin, Liszt & Rachmaninov were featured but the finale and undoubted highlight was Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue. A joy to listen to and watch someone clearly at the top of his game. Something completely different but a fantastic evening.
Sandra:
We then made our way back to
site via the usual #3 bus. A good night’s sleep and a lie in on Sunday morning
were much needed. Sunday we had decided would be a quiet day, relaxing in the
van and only stepping out for a stroll in Crystal Palace park, next to the
site, and anticipating visiting the lovely cafe in the centre. It was again
particularly bracing and cool. We had made it part of the way when we saw a
signpost indicating that the cafe was due to close in 10 minutes time! We decided
to turn back and made a slight detour to take some lovely photographs of the
lions which originally had been at the entrance to the exhibition.
A warming cup of tea on our return was most welcome plus the usual 40 winks. Prior to our departure we had agreed that we would cook a Sunday lunch in the caravan and Richard very kindly had purchased the required items. We had roast pork chops, fresh carrots and roast potatoes with gravy. I have to confess that the roast potatoes were Sainsbury’s best in a foil tray but when in the caravan the slight additional expenditure more than pays for itself inconvenience and less mess. For desert we had a fresh cooked apple pie with extra thick double cream. Richard polished off all his food and the facial expression when the apple pie with cream was served was a sight to behold! Needless to say I did leave part of the pie on my return home, I am sure he did not need much persuading to eat the rest.
Monday morning nice and early and we were soon on the way to our next port of call, Neasden Temple which required some train and bus journeys. This had been on the list for some time but due to its location some hour or so from the centre of London we had not been able to make the journey before. The main part of the temple is closed daily between midday and 4:30 PM. However the rest of the building remains open. It is the most amazing Hindu temple that you could ever imagine. The architecture, design and construction out of marble wood rendered us both speechless. There is very strict security to be gone through on arriving at the site and no photos at all can be taken inside. You are allowed to take the odd photograph of the outside of the building with your phone but not a proper camera. It is however possible to take some photos from outside the walls and fencing of the temple. There is a little shop and toilet facilities but no cafe or restaurant on site. However across the road there is an restaurant which serves food and is part of the whole complex.
The full name is BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir and it’s been on my list for a while, but I’ve put it off more than once as it’s a bit of a trek from Crystal Palace. Bus to Sydenham, Overground, Jubilee line to Wembley Park, then another bus. But jeez, was it worth it, it is stunning, truly stunning. The craftsmanship and dedication that went in to it, the friendly welcome, the atmosphere of calm and tranquillity, I can’t recommend it highly enough – and this from someone who doesn’t do religion. As Sandra said, strictly no photos inside, but check out the link to their website for a taster.
Sandra:
We then made our way slowly back into the centre of London arriving at Euston station. It was lunchtime and we decided that's a good place to eat our usual packed lunch was in the station it, seemed like a lot of other people had the same idea. We had a few hours to spend and we wondered what we might do. We had considered visiting St. Pancras station but decided it was far too far for me on this occasion. The British Library however was just about next door and both of us liking libraries very much decided to pay a visit.
Getting from the Temple back towards town was a bit problematic. The first number 18 sailed past, packed to the rafters, the second one arrived and this time stopped but it too was heaving. We were to learn later that closure of a tube line was the reason. About fifteen minutes into the journey we stopped for a change of driver. Only the replacement driver was nowhere to be seen. There was another bus in front of us that appeared to have the same problem. We stood and waiting as drivers conversed, made phone calls, gesticulated and deployed some very industrial language whilst the atmosphere on the bus grew more tense.
Eventually a replacement bus turned up, we squeezed on and were soon on our way.
Sandra:
We entered the library, neither of us having visited before, expecting a traditional library full of books on shelves that we could peruse at our leisure. We were somewhat nonplussed to realise that apart from a column of obviously very old books behind glass in the centre of the building from floor to ceiling, over several levels, there were no other books to be seen. There were many workstations being occupied by students and a number of cafes and restaurants. It is worth noting also that there is good disabled access and toilet facilities. I think it would be true to say that we were somewhat disappointed, however a cup of tea was most welcome in what is a very light and airy building.
We then caught another bus back into town, to Seven Dials, where we had booked our evening meal prior to going to the theatre to see the infamous Agatha Christie play the Mousetrap. It was the same chain as we had used earlier in the week and a very pleasant couple of hours past with good food, real ale and literally a stone’s throw from the theatre. So much so that you could see the theatre entrance out of the first floor window. We were early but the pub was more than accommodating and very helpful.
The Cambridge was another Nicholson’s pub so we knew what we were getting for our money. Signing up with an email address produced a voucher for 25% off food AND drink, though this was partially negated by the 10% service charge. It’s not for me to tell you that signing up with a different email address produces another voucher, so I won’t!
Sandra:
Neither of us had seen the Mousetrap before, obviously, we had heard all about it apart from whodunit! The theatre is a beautiful old building and was built by the forefathers of the current owners and they stage the only play. It was a very good performance with more humour then I had anticipated but I won’t spoil the surprise at the end. As with many London theatres, particularly the older ones, leg room is at a premium. Access was good but I found the lack of leg room very uncomfortable. I suppose in many ways seeing the Mousetrap it’s one of those bucket list items and I am very glad that I have seen it. We had originally tried to book to see it in Bath a while ago. It was fully booked, such is its endearing popularity.
We made our way home and another good night's sleep was most welcome. Tuesday morning arrived and it was time for me to make the journey back north. What we had not reckoned with was roadworks and extra traffic lights in the Herne Hill area. It was running very tight time wise for me to make my train and it's booked assistance in a couple of hours’ time. Fortunately we only had to travel as far as Brixton where we promptly got on the tube and went straight to Euston station. I was about 10 minutes late for my assistance booking time but due to the excellent service they have their, using buggies, I made my train just in time. A straight forward journey followed and I arrived back at base at the allotted time.
And that’s it for the first part, part 2 out soon.
Cheers
Rich