The van Dijks Go On Leave: November 2019

November and finally we're settling into home in Staines. Out for some Autumn walks this last week. The first I took by myself using an app Alltrails. Good one.

Llamas Lakes walk

Entry point to Llama's Lakes walk

And I continued on to Staines along the riverside.

The Swan pub (another one - I wonder how many there are in the UK)

Its art Innit?

Living near Staines, I have become aware that the town had more than its share of ridicule in the form of comedian, rapper Ali G. During the early 2000's Ali's yellow tracksuit cast a long shadow over Staines. According to Ali G, the most important landmark in Staines was a branch of KFC. In 2012 Staines rebranded and became Staines-Upon-Thames to shake off the Ali G link.

A 3 hour walk around Wraysbury Lakes and area

Dog friendly gate

A peaceful green space then you remember you are near Heathrow, the London M25 motorway and train track

Our walk eventuated by trial and error - here we try to figure out how we will make it home with the M25 in our path

And at home, Charlie is waiting for us with mad energy. Here, he tackles around inside a plastic bag from Roetgerink, Mam's favourite store.

Roetgerink Cat

Where shall I head off to today?

November 9, yesterday I walked to Staines and was waiting on the station platform when I saw a trainspotter with his camera at the ready. I was a bit puzzled he would be waiting for a shot of the humble 1:23 South Western train to London Waterloo. Then a beautifully restored train came tootling through. A very nice sight (although I didn't get my camera out in time so thanks to google for this image).
Belmond British Pullman is a private luxury train service consisting of restored trains from 1920-1950's. I saw the lucky diners sipping their champagne and enjoying their 5 course meal from fine dining cutlery and crockery. What a treat.