MaythorneCamping and Fishing Campsite, Southwell, Notts. 23rd July

We had intended to go up and stay with Stuart, Nic and Scarlet, who live at Maythorne in a top floor apartment, up three flights of stairs. Unfortunately Lizzie fell and hurt her leg which made walking more difficult than it normally is. So a hasty change of plans and we decided to take the caravan and stay on the site next to where they live.
I collected the caravan from storage, came back home to load up and collect Lizzie. We then drove up the M5 as far as the Tewkesbury turning. We then got on to the A46, which we followed until we got to the Southwell turning. The journey was a very pleasant one, taking just over 3 hours, covering 147 miles. We found the site easily, and it really was close to Stu and Nic's apartment, just about 100 yards.

We started setting up and soon Stuart and company arrived, armed with Beer and Wine. It was a very hot afternoon so we set up in a leisurely way, ably assisted by Scarlet.

On the Thursday all of us went to Lincoln. Had a good wander round the cathedral and then down a very steep hill to the old town.  There are some very steep hills there!  Enjoyed the town, and purchased some new sandals.

Fine old buildings in Lincoln

Lincoln Cathedral

We then drove back to the camp site for a BBQ by the caravan

Friday was spent in Southwell, which is a lovely little town, especially the Minster.

The inside of Southwell Minster.

Stuart and Nic have bought a bell tent so that they can go camping back in Zimbabwe, so we spent a couple of hours putting that up.  For the evening we all enjoyed a BBQ.

The Tent

Saturday was a really hot day so Lizzie and I decided to go to Skegness as it was not far away. When we got there, a look was enough, we did not even get out of the car. Skeggy was absolutely heaving, and just seemed to be miles of amusement arcades, cafes and static caravans.  Blackpool looks good compared to this place.

We then tracked our way north up the coastal road in the direction of Mablethorpe. As we went along we came across some absolutely cracking beaches that stretched for miles and were virtually deserted.

On Sunday we all went out for lunch at a local pub, along with Norman and Sandra, Nic's parents.  It was very good to meet up with them again. As for the meal, it was a carvery and the meat was excellent. As for the vegetables, well...........

Stuart and Scarlet

We then sat outside the caravan in the sun for the rest of the day.

On the Monday morning we cleared up in the warm weather, before saying farewell to Stuart, Nic and Scarlet, as they were returning to Zimbabwe in a couple of days, and we are unlikely to see them in the flesh until next summer. It was really good to see them.

Nic and Scarlet

We drove home and put the caravan on the drive as we were off again in a few days.