Friday 26th August, 2016 in Chester.
Early morning, a bright day dawned. The weather was perfect for exploring - sunny and warm with a gentle breeze.
After breakfast, we set off to explore the city. The Victorian clock over the north gate is a well known landmark both from the walls and from street level.
Tomorrow, we intend to go down this staircase of three locks, just round the corner from our mooring, on our way to Ellesmere Port. They look quite intimidating, very dark and deep. M said that she is not looking forward to doing them going down, or up.
The Cathedral is fascinating, it is constructed of local sandstone and it is huge. The cloisters, chapter house and refectory have also survived, despite the Reformation, and are beautiful. Although it appears that the Abbey survived because Chester needed a Cathedral, it was not clear why so much of the surrounding buildings also survived Henry VIII's policy of ecclesiastical demolition. Whatever the reason, it's marvellous that it's all still here.
Chester is full of beautiful original half-timbered buildings and is famous for the "Rows" - shops lining the main street on two levels, one above the other. The shops tend to be charming little boutique style businesses and we enjoyed walking around them.
The city was buzzing on such a lovely sunny day. There were street entertainers in the pedestrianised areas and a lovely happy atmosphere. Surely, Chester is truly one of the jewels in England's crown.
Back on MM, we waved cheerily to the happy folk on the local trip boat. They had afternoon tea on the way out and dinner on the return trip. There was much laughter and mutual raising of wine glasses as they passed by!
After the sun set, MM looked lovely, illuminated by the street lights.
Today: MM rested while we walked.
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