Derbyshire Region - Trip to Northumberland (Part 2) - Cars and Castles

A large part of our trips away centre round not only the cars, but also the driving experiences that we can enjoy together as members of the JEC. And for this trip to Northumberland, Mike and Julie did us proud.

On day one we met up at Mainsgill Food Hall and Restaurant near Scotch Corner. This is a location that Rachel and I have visited before, but it is usually so busy that we had not managed to eat there. However, Mike and Julie had sorted this and we had reserved tables from 12.00, easily within reach from home even though 120 miles distant.

The lunch was enjoyed by all, and then we set off for the run to The Linden Hall Hotel near Morpeth. Our first stop was at Otturburn Mill in Otterburn. The route was a mix of A roads and and unclassified lanes, and the views and driving experience were both excellent.

After tea, we set off again through the Northumberland National Park. passing by Cragside. eventually arriving at the Hotel.

We were swiftly checked in, and the plan was to meet in the bar before dinner. Whilst fetching some remaining posessions from the XK, Geoffrey and Lady Angela pulled into the car park. I was amazed to see how much luggage Geoff managed to empty out of the boot of the XK convertible! (see picture below).

Wednesday dawned slightly cloudy, and Geoff set about instructing drivers to get their Jaguars lined up in front of the hotel (see pic below). We hadn't bargained with a lady parking her Tesla by the front door to load up her luggage, after checking out. A traffic jam ensued. The next problem was that 11 Jaguars plus Glyn's Bentley were too many to fit easily into a photo in front of the hotel. We tried as best we could!

Mike and Julie had set us a competition - the challenge was to submit a picture of our Jaguar in front of a castle. The route included castles at Walkworth, Dunstanborough, Banburgh, Lindisfarne, Alnwick. Again the route was stunning.

Not everyone followed the exact route. Rachel managed to discover Ford Castle, which seemed appropriate because Ford (Motor Company, no relation to the castle!) paid for the development of the XK which so many of us enjoy to this day.

When the photo entries were submitted it became apparent that some of our members were invoking the services of photo shop (or similar). Who would have expected royalty or wildlife to adorn their Jaguars? Roger suggested that not everyone was taking the competition seriously. Really?

And so day 2 drew to a close and we headed back to the hotel for dinner. Another good day and well done again to Mike and Julie for planning the route, arranging lunch and adding in a competition as well!