Gretna Green in Scotland - Lake District, Bowness-on-Windermere and Chester, England
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Today's drive took us through the lowland hills towards Gretna Green, first stop of the day. On the way Trish explained the history of
the wearing of the kilt. The material was wrapped twice around the man to his knees and fastened with a handcarved wooden clip. The kilt itself
only reached the man's knees so that he could run easily through the paddocks and the grass. In their sock was a knife called a sgian dubh and it was placed here
so everyone can see it. Gretna Green was famous for weddings...The Blacksmith usually conducted ceremonies and couples as young as 14 could marry here without any formalities.
Today there are still some number of weddings taking place every day. The area itself is delightful and the touch of a Scottish Piper was special.
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Next on our itinery was a drive through The Lake District - lovely countryside and we followed the road over the Kirkstone Pass.
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A short visit to Bowness-on-Windermere was next and then after morning tea we were off to Grassmere. A village made famous by Beatrix Potter and
William Wordsworth. Both were important to this village and the shops are noticably full of Peter Rabbit books and memorabilia. William Wordsworth is buried in the
Church here and it is worth a wander to reflect on times gone by in this lovely setting.
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On the road again and soon we came to Britain's smallest house. It certainly was not built for a family!! From here we drove around the shores
of Ullswater Lake and were treated to the beautiful views from the coach. From here it took about two and a half hours to reach Chester our next place to explore.
What a delight! We first went on a walking tour and were amazed at the style of the black and white buildings with what they call "The Rows" in front. These are covered walkways
that are unique in their design. The Eastgate Clock is in prime position and well worth a look along with Chester Cathedral. The City walls surround the whole of Chester and we could walk
all around them and get lovely views of the city. There is the remains of a Roman Amphitheatre as well that has been preserved. Probably one of the most interesting cities we have visited on
our tour.
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