We leave Taunton and head for London. But not straight there – we stop off at Bicester Village, another outlet complex with lots of shops. We meet Clare, Dan and their dog Lincoln for a late breakfast at what is probably the biggest Pret à Manger we’ve ever seen. Dan is visiting his brother, who lives nearby, whilst we go shopping with Clare. She soon [Weiterlesen]

Today we’re going to the Clarks Village Outlet Centre with our friend. I’m hoping to find some nice, yet comfortable, brown shoes to go with my new suit, but I’m in for a disappointment: Although the centre is situated on the site of the Clarks shoe factory and there’s a large shoe shop, the selection – apart from the many winter boots – is limited [Weiterlesen]

Today we’re heading to Cheddar, home of the cheese of the same name. It’s a truly charming village, situated at the entrance to a magnificent gorge – the largest in Great Britain. There are also caves here where Cheddar cheese has been maturing since the 12th century, and in some cases still does today. The area is ideal for walking, and on the steep slopes, [Weiterlesen]

Exeter is the county town of Devon and, with a population of around 130,000, the largest city in the area. Nevertheless, it retains plenty of small-town charm – particularly in the old town. We visit the autumn market in the Cathedral and are delighted to find so many local people selling handmade items they have crafted at home or in their small workshops. Pictures made [Weiterlesen]

Together with our friend, we drive to the Coates English Willow Visitor Centre, where baskets and many more wicker items are still woven from willow rods. There’s no limit to the variety on offer, as we discover right at the entrance. Here, two wicker elephants greet visitors. In the shop, we buy tickets for the museum and have a quick look around. As well as [Weiterlesen]

On the way to Taunton, we’re stopping off in Basingstoke. We’re really keen to catch up with our friends Caroline and her son Jack. Her husband Peter had to work – understandably. We’ve known them the longest of all, in fact long before Jack was born. He’ll be turning 18 next week. We have lunch at Popeye’s, with fried chicken, chips, mac & cheese and [Weiterlesen]

We’re taking it easy today. We sleep in and then pop into the big shopping centre next to our hotel for a light breakfast. And of course, we’re having a browse round the shops too. Unfortunately, the new folding iPhone Duo hasn’t arrived at the Apple Store yet. But we spot lots of brilliant sets in the Lego shop. At Lush, the range of adorable [Weiterlesen]

After a short night, we set out relatively early. We meet our friend Clare at Gunwharf Quays. After a croissant and hot chocolate at a café, we stroll through the harbor area, passing many colorful townhouses. We watch the ferry as it sets sail for the Isle of Wight – that’s where Clare and her husband Dan are originally from. On our walk, we take [Weiterlesen]

We’re finally heading back to England today. How exciting! We set off at 9:15 am and make good progress… if only it weren’t for all the roadwork. And traffic jams. Just before Basel, we come to a complete standstill. When we see on the big screen that the situation isn’t going to change anytime soon, we take the exit and drive through the city. In [Weiterlesen]

As we unpack our shopping, the difference between travelling by car and by plane becomes obvious. Our selection is small but excellent – just the essentials!