August 11th, we waved goodbye to Steve's mother, sister and family. Another journey by train, this time to the beautiful city of Oxford. British trains travel through some amazing scenery. A long train ride can be wonderful, if you don't have a heavy suitcase. There isn't much space to put your suitcase, especially if it contains a lot of vinyl records. Many people are standing, complaining about the broken air conditioning..
Oxford is the home of Inspector Morse, Endeavour (Young Morse), and the world-famous university. Everywhere you look, almost every building, every street, everywhere you open your eyes, you can see something quite beautiful. An amazing city with super-friendly bus drivers, hotel staff, restaurant waiters, B & B owners, nice people everywhere. A Japanese magazine, Rurubu, recommended the Grand Cafe on High Street, "Oxford's oldest coffee house", built in 1560. What a nice cafe!
By renting a car, we had time to visit William Morris's wonderful 16th Century summer house, Kelmscott Manor. And we have to recommend the Manor Farm B & B, beside Kelmscott. The owner Emma was so nice. Kelmscott is the perfect place to escape from the madness of 2023. You can turn the clock back to the 19th Century: no trains, no buses, no noise, no suitcases; just polite, civilized conversation. Tea, scones, shortbread, Victoria sandwich cake… Everything you need to enjoy a holiday in England.
ps. Thank you to Brisco student, U san, for giving us some great advice about visiting Oxford..