We spent the weekend with our daughter again in Newcastle, and we decided to just potter around and do some of our favourite things when we are in the North East.
First stop was Grainger Market for some great food shopping. I would love to have this place on my doorstep, so I could buy fresh food on a daily basis, instead of having to drive to the big supermarket to stock up once a week. The fish stores, in particular, are wonderful.
Later, we moved on to another favourite haunt .... Tynemouth, which is only about twenty minutes from the city centre.
Tynemouth Vintage Market is held in the railway station each Saturday and Sunday. It's a great place to mooch around looking for little bargains.
The brooding ruins of Tynemouth Priory.
After a blustery walk along the beach we stopped off at Crusoe's, a renowned beach side cafe, for hot chocolate and muffins.
Back in Newcastle, more shopping, this time at the local Chinese supermarket where I stocked up on lots of spices and sauces, and invested in a new wok. I'm looking forward to testing out some new recipes soon.
A meal at Blackfriars, which is a lovely restaurant in an old monastery in the centre of Newcastle.
No trip to the North East is complete without trip to Barter Books, in Alnwick, the most amazing book store which fills an old railway station. We spent a few happy hours here on Sunday morning, so much browsing to do. Mr B. was thrilled with the selection of vintage climbing guide books, and came away with a few treasures.
Another beach, this time at nearby Alnmouth. We managed a quick walk along the beach, before the heavens opened, and we had to race for shelter.
All too soon it was time to head home. It was lovely having a chance to have a peep into our daughter's world, and very reassuring to see just how happy and settled she is. Happy parents!!!!
