Introduction
My favourite Yorkshireman, Sheffield born, Sir Michael Palin once said “Once the travel bug bites there is no known antidote, and I know that I shall be happily infected until the end of my life”.
I live down the road in neighbouring Doncaster aka Donny Vegas and I also love to travel and explore – this bug is infectious! “Adventure before dementia” is my mantra. “And travel before old age becomes a continuous series of losses”.
So in our 7th decade, my gorgeous wife Babs and I are off on a journey – a road trip with surprises on the way. Fancy coming along too? And as there will be tea and scones during the journey, then everyday will be another day in cream cake paradise.
We are taking The Explorer’s Road launched by Visit Britain earlier this year to encourage overseas tourists. Advertised as an ancient route, established in 75AD, the route passes through the cultural and historic heart of England. It’s 300 miles long through England’s green and pleasant lands and just crying out to be discovered and enjoyed. Between Hertford and Berwick-Upon-Tweed there is so much to see and do.
The road can be covered in a day but what is the point of that? So much would be missed. The route covers hills and dales, fields populated with sheep and cows, ancient monuments, cathedrals, churches and castles, museums galore – many quirky. Roman, Saxon, Norman and medieval history. Modern day marvels too. It’s awash with culinary treats and locally produced drinks. Artisan Gin from small scale producers are a feature along the way. Intriguing regional accents and Folklore galore.
We will travel along motorways, A and B roads. And go off the main routes to discover architectural gems, museums and English eccentricities. All under everchanging skies.
Travelling ‘Up North’ the road opens out. The stunning East Coast on the right, the Yorkshire Dales and the Northumbrian Cheviots on the left. It is colder up here so don’t forget to pack a jacket – the more waterproof the better!
With so much on offer we can’t wait to get started and travel along this panoramic route. Are you coming along too?
