Devon

We had decided that we would make an early start. Traffic should be light and we could be in Sidmouth before noon. We had packed yesterday afternoon so there was no real rush this morning. We were in the car and on our way by 8:45.

As predicted we saw very little traffic. The weather was a little wild at first, but as we headed west it began to clear. As usual, we stopped at Bridport for a comfort break and some coffee, but were soon on our way for the last 30 miles.

The doorman at the hotel ushered into a prime parking spot and suggested that we check in and get comfortable, leaving our luggage in the car until our rooms are ready at 3pm. Sounded good to us… so we checked in and made our way to the lounge where we had a refreshing drink and a sandwich. The hotel is beautifully decorated in preparation for Christmas and as the Silver Vixen said, it looks like a film set.

J&T turned up soon after we had settled down. We chatted over our collective snacks then decided that a walk was needed. We wandered in to town and somehow managed to find ourselves trapped in the knitwear triangle (Seasalt, Crew Clothing, and Cotton Traders). Like an escape room, there is a trick to getting out. The trick seemed to be based on the purchase of goods. We managed. We the stopped in the department store. The Gorse Fox was looking for a particular type of sweater, but was unsuccessful. The Silver Vixen, however, spotted their leather jackets and mercilessly bullied the Gorse Fox into buying one . The jacket is rather splendid and must contain the hides from a small herd. It’s certainly heavy enough.

Back in the hotel, we are now settled in our room and unpacked. We’ll meet up with J&T in the bar before dinner.