Woke early. … feckin freezing. .. even nan was cold. .. queenie must be strapped for cash, the heating wasn’t on.. she even fibbed about square sausage. !!!!… had to make do with bacon and eggs. !!
Spotted a good off road spot.. ended up on top of a mountain near some ski lifts! Fantastic view though. .
It was at this point in the journey north that I’ve realised .. I’m going to be swept up by the Queens baton relay
…. she didn’t tell me that!!
I was parked just here taking in the scenic views and having some super noodles when they came past…… so that was it, followed the convoy all the way to Thurso. .. Me and nan just had to stop and wave!!
Getting through Thurso to Scrabster to see about the ferry was an impossible task. .. so looped back through the back streets and found myself at Gills bay to book onto the ferry at 7pm. ..This left me with time to kill… nothing for it but to do what all tourists do and go to John o groats..
And take nan for a walk..
Back at the terminal. .. seems like the baton is following me now… Police cars in abundance..
More tomorrow.. the baton relay anyway. . The very friendly police tell me it’s coming over on the first ferry and will in Kirkwall…. and other places.
May try to get a better photo for the blog, in the mean time I need to find a certain Croft. .. more about that later.
But tonight I’m finding a pub! !!
Categories: Northumberland (the peoples republic of)
The Peoples Republic of Northumbria 
If you’re in John o groats take a trip on the RIB out around the Stacks at Duncansby, fantastic. There’s a top notch seafood restaurant in Scrabster on the harbour side, recently visited by Brad Pitt and his missus. If you’re heading to Orkney then Scara Brae is a must see as is the Cathedral in Kirkwall who’s stone columns were carved by the same mason’s as Durham Cathedral, look for the family trademarks on the stone. Then there’s also the Castle of Mey, the Queen Mothers summer castle in Mey. You’re a bit soon for the Mey Highland games though there may be other games around. And if you look skyward at night you might just catch the Northern Lights or the Perseid meteor shower although thats not due until early August. Its a great part of the world – enjoy.
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Nice one norm. .
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Good to see you posting again and sharing with us you epic trip.
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The croft is on Shapinsay. a wee ferry ride from Kirkwall. I have a mate on Orkney if you want to meet up. Don’t pinch the baton lol
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Got all day tomorrow
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Is that village (street) Golspie ?
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Tomintoul
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Great pictures ‘n all AND the sun is shining for you
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