Lake District, UK... a Magical Place and More!

Magical!  That's all I can say... absolutely magical!  

The Lake District in the UK is just one of those places you have to see to believe.  The pictures certainly don't do it justice (isn't that usually the case)?!  To celebrate a fairy tale wedding in this very surreal place made it extra special for Hubby and I.  

We couldn't be happier for this beautiful couple and feel lucky we could be a part of their special day.  I only wish I had taken more pictures at all the events surrounding the wedding.  But who wants to be the annoying guest always with a camera in their hand?  I have to admit, it was nice just sitting back and taking it all in.  But now that I'm trying to share it with all of you more pictures would have been great. 

The Lake District is a National Park located in the North West part of England.  There are probably more lakes, tarns and reservoirs than I can count.  They are all surrounded by spectacular mountains, fells and woodland.  

I didn't know so many shades of green existed.  

You could literally walk the footpaths for days through the valleys and fells.  

We hiked with the whole group to Beacon Tarn and had a picnic lunch.  Some brave souls went for a swim... not exactly tropical conditions... I've been ruined forever!

I've never seen so many sheep in my life.  All the footpaths go right through the fields.  The drystone walls, which enclose the livestock on the fellsides, are quite incredible.  To think each stone was placed by hand over hundreds of years.

Hubby and I had fun exploring the charming villages.

Of course, Hubby had to check out the classic boats on Lake Windermere.

We walked around the Brantwood Estate which overlooks Coniston Lake.  

We stopped at Jumping Jenny for a spot of tea and a scone.

Our Fish-n-Chips lunch at The Yewdale was awesome.  After all the hiking and walking we had done there was no guilt involved.

We could walk from our Bed and Breakfast in Coniston to the Wilsons Arms in the Village of Torver.  Pub food has come a long way.  I had Pork Belly, over Mashed Potatoes, Tempura Black Pudding, and Asparagus.  At our B&B she served a traditional breakfast of eggs of your choice, Bacon (which is more like our ham in the US), Cumbrian Sausage, Black Pudding, Baked Tomatoes, Fried Mushrooms and Fried Toast.  We certainly got our share of protein in the mornings.

We were pleasantly surprised with the food.

The Blacksmith's Arms, in Broughton Mills, where the rehearsal dinner was held, dates back to 1577, making it the oldest pub in the Lake District.  Amazing to think the internal structure hasn't changed since then.  It was a perfect evening of fun socializing and tasty food. 

It was pretty tough waking up to this view every morning from the window of our B&B.

Most of the events were in Woodland, a short 10 minute drive from Coniston where we were staying.  The groom's parents live in Woodland, literally right next to the little church where the wedding was.

The groom's parents and grandparents were also married in this very sweet and charming church.  

The bride absolutely took my breath away as she walked down the aisle.  Not only is she stunningly gorgeous on the outside but a beautiful person on the inside as well.  Of course, I couldn't hold back the tears.  I'm just so happy for her!  

After the wedding, the bride and groom led a procession to the reception which was up the road at the uncle's home which used to be their grandfather's home.  They served appetizers, champagne and Pimm's in the garden overlooking the valley while a string quartet played in the background.  How I wish I could have taken pictures... the setting was indescribable!  It was an incredible evening followed by toasts, and a lovely formal dinner of Soused and Scorched Mackerel Nicoise, Braised Lamb Shoulder with Mint Jelly, Summer Vegetables and Jersey Royals and a desert table with a delectable variety.  The after dinner dancing was lively and fun.  It's so awesome when you see the bride and groom having a great time at their own wedding!

The day after the wedding the groom's parents hosted a traditional Hog Roast brunch in their garden.  This beauty cooked all night on this large rotisserie.  No seasonings necessary.  The meat literally fell off the bone.  You could build your own sandwich on rolls, with applesauce, lettuce and tomato and stuffing on the side. The pork was to die for!   

We said our goodbyes to new and old friends.

Our next adventure was driving from the Lake District to Scotland.  It was a spectacular 3 1/2 hour drive.  We stayed right in the hub of Edinburgh.   Our time was short but we packed a lot in. 

St. Giles Cathedral and Scott's Tower

Holyrood Palace

I was missing my Little Brown Dog so I had to get this shot with Greyfriars Bobby, the loyal Skye Terrier.  There is a very sweet story behind him which you can google if you like.

We had to hike to Arthur's Seat... and yes, Arthur (Hubby) and I sat and took it all in knowing our magical adventure was coming to an end.

Enough of the travel logs!  Now it's back to work in the Virgin Islands.  

Recipes to come!