A Tale of Two Cities

As we were leaving Shrewsbury we reflected on why we liked this city so much. Shrewsbury has a small town vibe about it, every employee and business owner was warm, friendly and extremely helpful including the post office and the library.
There are no high rises and therefore no construction cranes. Their historic buildings are kept maintained and occupied by vibrant businesses. What is not to like.

We are getting the hang of the English train system. A seamless journey today. Dahv, check out what your Mom is reading.

Liverpool!

We made an error in judgment. The sun was actually shining so in our excitement we decided to walk to our B & B. It was further than expected, we arrived tired and very hungry.

Liverpool is not what I had expected at all! Most of our walk was past large beautiful old brick townhouses, all nicely maintained. We noted several churches but no cafes (we really could have used a cup of tea!).

Later, after checking into The Mountford Hotel we had a delicious vegan lunch at Milo's Lounge. 

Starting at Oxford the manner of food ordering changed. Customers need to order their food at the bar, there seems to be no table service.

After our late lunch and a nap (!) we hopped on a bus that was headed downtown.

Here we are at Albert Dock on the Mersey.

The tide is out.

Look, it is warm enough to remove my gortex jack! 

This old dock has been closed in and is now used for swimming laps. It is a huge area. Some swimmers are wearing wetsuits against the cold.

This is also part of the same sports facility.

The Anglican Cathedral

Some great old buildings

This is Arthur.

We first met him on the bus and then again at his "local". He insisted on buying us a drink, after discussing politics ( Trump, Brexit and Trudeau... quite the talker!) he kindly gave us a list of places to visit tomorrow.

Heading back to the B & B on the bus.

Another great day.

Looking forward to tomorrow.

I hope the sun sticks around!