GOING BEYOND LONDON
The United Kingdom is one of my favorite destinations to visit. Friends and family who don’t have the wandering bug like me are often curious about this land that is so far away from our home in New Orleans. When I announce that I’m taking another trip to the UK, it is commonly assumed that I’ll be staying in London. Truthfully that fair city is just a waypoint for me on the way to someplace else. London and its many boroughs is someplace I could stay for 6 months and still not see everything. There is just so much to see, do, and experience. But beyond the bright lights and cosmopolitan offerings of London, the East Midlands and family are what draw me in for a visit.
Visiting the Midlands
About a two-hour drive north of London, in the East Midlands, is Northamptonshire. Despite the occasional overcast skies and chilly breeze, I was captivated by the picturesque landscapes. I also enjoyed the experience of quaint villages and centuries of history in the area. For just a short while, I was able to live a simple life in a centuries-old stone farmhouse.
Long Thong Farm
Long Thong Farm (pictured above) sits surrounded by lush fields, an orchard, and a grove that teems with wildlife. The generous farm owners feed the local birdlife daily, putting out feed, seed, and food scraps to attract various species to their bird sanctuary in the grove. It’s common to see pheasants, red kites, Eurasian magpies, and more on the property. The farm’s orchard produces apples, grapes, and green gage plums. Fall is my favorite time to visit! Despite the crisp wind, the mid to late afternoon sunshine makes apple picking a joy.
I spent time in the orchard picking apples and green gage plums. The taste of fresh picked apples is especially rewarding when you’ve spent time in the orchard picking them yourself. I baked most of what I’d picked into either an apple tart or pie. I used what remained to make homemade apple sauce.
The tiny market town of Thrapston is just a 5-minute drive up the B662 from Clopton. For farm-fresh produce and fresh seafood, head to Thrapston on Tuesday for market day! I love to bargain hunt at the many charity shops, its one of my favorite activities when I visit the Midlands in the U.K. Trust me, these shops are full of hidden gems at great prices. You’ll find various shops benefiting both local and national charities in almost every town, village, and city. From gently used fashions to vinyl albums by legendary artists like Perry Como and Charley Pride, there’s something for everyone!
Trip for My Tastebuds: Exploring cuisine in the Midlands
Of course I must include something with my foodies! Besides all of the homemade gourmet meals my hosts provided, my sister drove me over to the Manor House Farm Shop in Woodford. Adjacent to this shop is Greedy Gordon’s Express! The fare there was simple but tasty. I was more fascinated by the items available for sale in the Farm Shop! I mean where else can you find pickled onions with chilis labeled “Ass Blasters” or bacon and tomato flavored kettle chips? The meal was decent, but I wasn’t all that impressed.
The Duke’s Arms in Woodford
To make up for my disappointment, later that week, my friends took me to a different eatery in Woodford. We ventured over to the High Street in Woodford into The Duke’s Arms.I wasn’t sure what to expect when I stepped inside, but I was pleasantly surprised at the many layers to this small pub. This quaint neighborhood pub has a unique character which I found enjoyable. We were welcomed warmly by the waitstaff as well as the barkeep upon entry. The bar doesn’t have many stools (by American Standards), there are a small number of tables for seating in the 1st and 2nd rooms, and there is even a room in back for live music performances. We didn’t venture outside, but I was told there is garden seating out back with an area for kids to play.
The menu offered interesting selections for a food connoisseur like me. I selected the hunter’s chicken lunch special that was listed on a large blackboard posted above the fireplace in the front dining room. It didn’t take long for the food to be delivered to the table. Contrary to popular opinion, pub food isn’t all that bad, in fact it was delicious!
Summary
The next time you think of traveling to the United Kingdom, visit the Midlands for a few days. You may like the freedom of renting a car, but I also recommend taking a ride on the National Rail. Spend a night or two at local inn, eat in a local pub restaurant, and take a drive or walk the rolling hills. You won’t be disappointed! If you’d like to enjoy your own bespoke experience in the Midlands, fill out our contact form. Until then enjoy safe travels!