The Pilgrimage

Dr. Hugh Tildesley

 

The UK trip was on the bucket list and like these lists totally self-indulgent. The plan to visit Burnham and Berrow again has always been high, coupled with London theatre, a maximization of enjoyment.

As usual, the BA flight was excellent, sitting on the upper deck of the 747 insured impeccable service. Landing at terminal 3 less convenient than the usual terminal 5 and my luggage, which should have been first off, was last!! The extra wait of 15 mins trivial in the grand scheme of things.

Ted and Gorgeous (George seslija) had landed 2 hours earlier and we made our way to Avis, my wizard card avoided the line and we packed the Citroen with clubs and baggage. Ted commented negatively on my choice of a standard transmission, I retorted with a comment on his lack of a sense of adventure. The fact I stalled it a couple of times getting out of the parking lot added a lot to said sense of adventure.

Figure this out!

The next 2-½ hours was relatively easy, free way driving thus the side of the road on which I was driving was predetermined. A couple of uninterruptible warning signs on the dash necessitated a review of the manual; thank goodness my co-pilots were attentive. One touchy scene as finding reverse required another visit to the manual.

The pesky ring which must be pulled up to get in reverse

B and B Day 1:

Ashbourne House

Our hosts at Ashbourne House could not be nicer; Ted and I are staying here, Georgeous up the road, to move here when a room is available.

Glenda and Chris Donald could not be more accommodating, we have the use of a very comfortable common are and wee dram single malt has been consumed nocturnally.

Dunstan Pub

Our first night we went to Dunstan’s pub for dinner, an excellent menu with service to match. Jet lag led to an early bedtime.

I was awakened by the howling wind at 5 am. The forecast was for cloud and wind today, fortunately no rain. A challenging golf course will be protected by the elements.

The front 9 was problematic, high scores for Ted and me; Gorgeous was hitting the ball solidly. The back 9 more friendly with winds at our back.

Looking back from # 1 green, clubhouse in the background

Typical Scene at Burnham and Berrow

Gorgeous shot a smooth 79, Ted and I considerably higher, my net score acceptable at 76. I was proud to have walked the course, more up and downs than Point Grey and although I dragged the last 6 holes.

I met with Karen Drake, the club secretary and we exchanged gifts as representatives of our respective clubs, she could not have been nicer and our tee times were confirmed for our stay.

After the round we enjoyed home made soup at the club and we returned “home “, for serious napping.

Those who know Gorgeous realize he has traveled the world and very particular. Glenda is extremely helpful, his shirts have been cleaned and ironed, she has driven him to pick up the scotch, and she has brought him coffee and sausages at breakfast even though he is not staying here.

Chris is extremely generous, driving us to the fine Italian restaurant where we dined last night and if need be supplementing our Glenmorangie with his own Laphroag.

Brechen in charge Chris in awe

We had a nice chat with Chris before retiring last night, Brechen, their 11-year-old rescue dog has no real boundaries in the house and had no problem snuggling with me as we all chatted.

The experience here continues to exceed expectations!

Until next time.......