The 'Spirits' of York

As the weather continues to hold in brilliant fashion, we were pilgrims on a journey...today it was humorously enough to secure a specific kind of 'spirit', although it might not be what you would first expect. It would seem that for the dedicated gin drinkers, there is a brand of Plymouth gin known as 'Naval Strength' that is revered as the best EVER and is impossible to get in the USA and it would appear also somewhat difficult to get in the UK. After a coach ride, 2 hours of walking through the city and lots of inquiries, clues, hints and false hopes, we landed upon the fabled gin in the cellar of a store connected to a pub squeezed down an alley... but we got it!

We celebrated our conquest with an excellent Indian meal, topped off (naturally) by some ice cream and then spent some quiet time milling about the city. York is fascinating for many reasons, including the Roman roads that run through the center of the city (and look an awful lot like the inspiration for Diagon Alley in Harry Potter) plus is surrounded by the original wall that was built to protect it from invaders. We are staying at the Fishers gate (this is a city built around water) and the York Minster is down at the Monk gate - the reason seems pretty obvious.

Succumbing to the pressures of being a tourist in England, we attended a high tea that was admittedly better than I gave it credit for potentially being. We had a group of 17 invade Betty's Tea and the place will never be the same again. We even managed to drag a couple of the guys along for the experience and they too confessed that it was pretty good. After tea it was more cruising of the town and another visit back to the York Minster and its amazing architectural features.

The day is wrapping up with a great sunset and promise of some pear cider at the local pub later. Tomorrow we head for Coventry Cathedral and Windsor Castle - a bit of driving will be involved but naturally we will document the entire trip for you to view. (password england)