Stratford and Salford Hall

Posted on 2007/07/01 12:29:25 (July 2007).

[Tuesday 26th June]
The next leg of our journey would take us from North Wales down to Stratford-Upon-Avon. We set out fairly early, conscious that we had yet another long journey ahead of us. The first part of the journey has some really nice views (North Wales mountains) to help pass the time, but, and I'm slightly loathed to admit it, as we approach England the scenery became a lot flatter and generally far less interesting!

Anyway, we arrived in Stratford just before 3, and launched straight into sightseeing mode. We did all the touristy bits there - Shakespeare's birthplace, Nash Hall, Hall's Croft, the Holy Trinity Church, and a bit of a walk along by the river, and past the theatre. Hall's Croft (which Robin had recommended) was probably my favourite - a lot quieter than the other houses, and it somehow had a much more realistic feel - more like a real house than a museum.

We left Stratford some time after 5, and from there headed onto our hotel - Salford Hall, a few miles away. I had been there once before for a Christmas party, and remember it being rather nice. As the location was really convenient for us, and for Mum and Keith to get to, it seemed like an ideal choice.

After dropping off our bags, and sprucing ourselves up a bit, we headed down to the bar (and then the lobby) for some pre-dinner drinks, and a chance for Chie's family to meet Mum and Keith for the first time.

I don't really remember what the food was like when we were here for that Christmas party 6 or 7 years ago, but tonight it was very good indeed. The particular highlight for me was my starter - a Worcestershire cheese risotto with curried parsnips and apple tempura. Sounds a little odd, but it was really quite exquisite. I was still suffering with my stomach a little, so couldn't finish my main course, but that was very nicely done as well.

All in all it was a very pleasant evening - it's really nice to have a meal like this without having to worry about getting back home at the end of it. I have to admit I have a bit of a thing for country house hotels, and with the prospect of a few nights in over-priced and underwhelming London hotels ahead of them, I hope this was a nice little treat for our Japanese guests.

It was a lovely, lovely occasion, well organised by the excellent host.

Posted by John's Mum at 2007/07/02 14:18:51.

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