Cork and London

Continuing on our trip around the British Isles we visited the ports of Cobh in Ireland and Dover in the U.K.

Switching backwards and forwards between Euros and English Pounds we also had to navigate two sets of accents as we took the opportunity to catch up with relatives on both sides of the Irish Sea.

Cork and my Irish Cousins

From the small village of Cobh, we caught the train to Cork to meet two of my Irish cousins. Second cousins, once removed, being daughters of my grandfather's brother, Mary and Anne were delightful and met us at Cork station. From there we travelled to Blarney Castle stopping on the way to have coffee and catch up at a Cork Hotel. During the drive, there was a continual discussion of the landmarks and the route to take, along with the history of all the relatives and acquaintances who had lived in the area.

At Blarney Castle, we enjoyed the warm weather we had brought with us as we strolled around the gardens and onto the self-described "Largest Irish Shop in the World". I was tempted by some of the Waterford crystal gin glasses but at almost 100 euro per glass in a set of 4, we ended up with socks, tea towels and t-shirts this time.

In the selfie from L to R Stephen, Anne, Kathy and Mary.

While stopping for Lunch we were introduced to another cocktail for the COTD collection. A "Baby Guinness" in a shot glass top some Tia Maria with a layer of Bailey's to resemble a tiny pint of the black stuff. Added to the repertoire and this will be on high rotation.

Mary and Anne returned us to Cork after a wonderful visit and with instructions to pass on to the next set of relatives for them to visit Ireland soon. Thank you so much for a great day.

We returned on the train to Cobh and with a later departure scheduled we ventured ashore where the pubs were full to overflowing with cruise passengers and music filled the square. A few beers, ciders and gins in the pub with other passengers was followed by meat and cheese boards and wine at a local cafe. (no potatoes of any description in sight) Pictures are with a Canadian couple we have been spending time with on the cruise.

We were back onboard almost an hour before departure. Other passengers cut it a bit closer after requiring some assistance to remain upright while walking.

London and English relations

After a sea day to recover from our series of port visits, we made it to Dover on another grey morning.

A short taxi ride to the station and breakfast at the station then we were on the fast train to London (with Piney)

at St. Pancress station we meet up with my uncle and his wife. Unfortunately, another cousin was unable to join as as planned due to a recent injury. (get well Dee). We then proceeded via both tube and overland rail to the Southbank river walk and once again enjoyed some beautiful weather as we took in the views and passed on the exhortation to visit Ireland.

L-R Tim, Nancy, Kathy and Stephen

Once again defying stereotypes we selected a tapas restaurant for lunch and enjoyed too much food along with some refreshing Cava Sangria in the sun.

Our last stop was when we returned to the station where alongside the Eurostar platform and above the shopping arcade (we could see the Kate Spade shop from our seat) we stopped of at what is billed as the longest Champagne Bar in Europe. We sat at one of the velvet booths and perused the menu. Piney took charge and pressed the button to order a bottle of a charming english sparkling rose.

As we finished the bottle a Eurostar train pulled in just the other side of the glass barrier between the bar and the platform. We proceed instead to the platform for Dover and boarded the return train.

A stop in Dover town centre was less photogenic but we did manage to stock up with chocolate, potato chips and Jaffa Cake Bars for the next leg of our voyage.

So back to the ship and off again in the night after two great days catching up with relatives (and new drinks)