Have suitcase will travel

 

Welcome to my first blog about my travels.

As I have been doing a lot more travelling since we came out of lockdown I thought that I might as well find somewhere to document my experiences.

I have spent the Easter weekend ensconced in a lovely cottage at the foot of Sutton Bank in Yorkshire.

If you don't know this area, I can assure you its worth a visit.

Sutton Bank however is not one of my favourite drives with its hairpin bends, but the views from the visitors centre at the top make it worth the knee trembling drive.

I've been  staying at a farm which has  two cottages that can be rented, both one bedroom and both perfect for a break away. This is now my third visit if that is any recommendation.

Its a small farm with a flock of Herdwick Sheep and a variety of hens and Indian runner ducks. Eggs are usually available ( although a threat of avian flu at  the  moment sees  'the girls' locked away in the barn).

Both cottages benefit from a lovely courtyard with outdoor seating and views over the wonderful Yorkshire countryside. What better way to kick back and relax over Easter weekend. 

There are also lovely walks which help to while away the hours and help you to really appreciate the countryside.

Within easy reach is Thirsk, a busy market town which is better known to most people as 'Darrowby' the fictional home of James Herriot, and home of The World of  James Herriot. 

Jim Wright who wrote the stories of  being a vet in this area  was a Sunderland born man who graduated from veterinary college in 1939.

More recently some local Thirsk vets have been part of the series, 'The Yorkshire Vet'

Also within easy reach ( and via Sutton bank) is Helmsley another beautiful market town sitting on the edge of the Dales national park.  A town with a range of independent shops and lovely cafes. The ruins of Rievaulx Abbey are not too far  from the town Helmsley.

There are a good selection of things to do in the area close to the farm. And if you want to do something really different you can go to the Monk Park Farm, which has a variety of animals including llamas, wallabies as well as traditional farm animals.

Just to sit and enjoy the views around the farm though is worth its weight in gold, and a great way to just switch off, and that is exactly what I have been doing.

I hope you've had a good Easter break, I know I have, and now time to unpack one bag and start packing my suitcase as it is a month to my next travels