Tuesday July 19 A trip to Melton Mowbray

Melton Mowbray sheep market

England turned on another stunner of a day, scorching hot, well over 30 degrees although not much humidity. Everyone was out and about in their singlets and sunfrocks…and some guys without shirts showing off their tattoos!

We were on the road by 7.30 this morning for the 2 hour drive to Melton Mowbray, I even drove part of the way.  Easy parking at the market, stock trucks and trailers everywhere. The market is not only for stock but also food and bric a brac so lots of people.

The familiar smell of stock as we wandered amongst the sheep and pigs before coming to the “feather’s and fur” sale – what a hoot as they sold everything from chooks to geese to rabbits and budgies.

The cattle auction fascinated us and the prices were pretty impressive, small weaners were selling for 400 pound, and older for over 600 for 6 – 8 months. (sorry can’t find the pound symbol on my laptop!) There were some real characters watching the auction, traditional British Farmers. From what I understand this market had been in existence for 1000 years and is the biggest British town centre market. They are currently developing the site to create more market space.  This place really is well worth a visit.

We have been trying to find a small gas barbecue for Ruakiwi, without success, so visited a B&Q store in Melton Mowbray but no luck. They suggested the Home Base and The Range in Grantham, no luck in either but were really impressed with the range of stock in the Range. Had a very late lunch at the Picture Café in Grantham, really nice especially as they had air conditioning! And loved that my cup of tea came in a china pot with a hand knitted tea cosy!

We drove lots of country lanes and roads on the way back to the Barn, just can’t get enough of this beautiful countryside. The head and sun is ripening all the crops and saw quite a bit of harvesting going on.

Coming into the little town of Woodhall Spa, we crossed the Witham River and could see several canal boats tied up. Detour around to check them out, as these are the first we have seen on our travels.

Finally arrived home at 5pm, rather weary and very hot, so the beer that Ian had put in the fridge was really welcome. Another good day exploring the countryside, and tomorrow we bring Ruakiwi home..YEAH!!!

This chap had just bought these 3 chooks - he was on his way home!

The butcher in this really well set up mobile shop had great patter, he was offering some great deals
and had plenty of customers.

A rental canal boat...loved the name.

Driving along a country lane, we had to cross this ford...a first.