#hotels near derby station

[aimeedaisies]

The Princess Royal’s Official Engagements in July 2023

01/07 Princess Anne accompanied by Sir Tim, opened the 30th Scottish Traditional Boat Festival at Portsoy Harbour. ⛴️

03/07 As Chancellor of Harper Adams University, visited the University’s Future Farm, Edgmond and met the 2023 Marshal Papworth Foundation Scholars. 👩‍🎓

As Patron, Scottish Fisheries Museum’s Reaper Appeal visited the Scottish Fisheries Museum in St. Ayles, Anstruther. 🎣

04/07 Visited Strathcarron Hospice, Denny. 👩‍⚕️

As Colonel-in-Chief of the Intelligence Corps, attended a 5 Military Intelligence Battalion Training Night at the Army Reserve Centre, Edinburgh. 💂

05/07 As part of Holyrood week in Edinburgh, Princess Anne carried out the following engagements;

Opened the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People and the Department of Clinical Neurosciences, at NHS Lothian as part of #NHS75 celebrations. 🧸

Opened King’s Buildings Nucleus Building at the University of Edinburgh. 👩‍🎓

Launched WETWHEELS EDINBURGH Accessible Boat at Port Edgar Marina. 🦽🛥️

Attended a Dinner at the Waldorf Astoria for Eric Liddell 100 programme. 🍽️

06/07 As President of the UK Fashion and Textile Association, attended the Textile Institute World Conference at the University of Huddersfield. 🪡

Opened Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust’s Maternity Theatre at Bradford Royal Infirmary.🤰

As Colonel of The Blues and Royals, with Sir Tim, took the salute at the Household Division Beating Retreat on Horse Guards Parade. 🫡

07/07 Attended a Charity Polo Day at Cirencester Park Polo Club for the Spinal Injuries Association 🐎

11/07 Visited Flintshire Adult Day Care Centre, Hwb Cyfle in Queensferry, Wales. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿

HRH, as the new Patron of BASC (British Association for Shooting and Conservation) visited their Headquarters at Marford Mill, Wrexham, Wales. 🦡

12/07 Visited St Helena’s Nursing Campus at the University of Derby in Chesterfield. 👩‍⚕️

Opened Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust’s new Urgent and Emergency Care Department. 🏥

Attended a Reception at Rolls-Royce Learning and Development Centre for the Motor Neurone Association. 🚘

13/07 Sir Tim represented the Princess Royal at a service of thanksgiving for the life of Admiral of the Fleet Lord Boyce at Westminster Abbey. ⚓️

Princess Anne opened the King’s Arch at Government House, visited the Tortoise Takeover Trail at Gorey Castle and subsequently opened the Tortoise Tunnel at Jersey Zoo. 🇯🇪🐢

Princess Anne with Sir Tim, later attended the Royal Academy of Engineering Annual Awards Dinner at the Londoner Hotel in Leicester Square, London. 🏆

14/07 Opened the new Southampton Citizens Advice Bureau and visited DP World Shipping Container Terminal. ⛴️

15/07 As Colonel-in-Chief of the Intelligence Corps, attended their Annual Corps Day at Chicksands. 🪖

18/07 Princess Anne and Sir Tim carried out the following engagements in Kent;

Opened a new affordable housing development at Bartlett Close, Staple, Canterbury, followed by a Reception at Staple Village Hall. 🏡

Visited St James’s Cemetery in Dover in her role as Patron of the Remembrance Trust 🫡

Visited Folkestone National Coastguard Institution Station in Folkestone to mark its 25th Anniversary, followed by a Reception at Folkestone Yacht and Motorboat Club. 🚨

19/07 In South Wales, visited Barry Citizens Advice Bureaux in her role of Patron of the National Association of Citizens Advice Bureaux and later visited HM Prison Cardiff in her role of Patron of the Butler Trust. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿

20/07 Joined the ship’s company of HMS Albion and visited Clyde Marina near Glasgow, Scotland. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

21/07 Princess Anne and Sir Tim attended a Dinner at the Royal Ocean Racing Club Clubhouse, to celebrate the 50th Edition of the Fastnet Race in Cowes, Isle of Wight. 🛥️

27/07 Attended the Tall Ships Races Captains’ Dinner at Lerwick Town Hall, Lerwick, Shetland Islands. 👨‍✈️🍽️

28/07 Visited ships in Lerwick Harbour taking part in the Tall Ships Races. 🚢🏁

29/07 With Sir Tim, attended the King George Day at Ascot Racecourse. 🏆🐎

30/07 Princess Anne and Sir Tim visited Cowes, Isle of Wight for Cowes Week and carried out the following engagements;

Viewed Cowes Week Racing and met Squadron Staff at the Royal Yacht Squadron. 🛥️

Visited HMS Tyne and The Royal Navy Stand. ⛴️

Attended a Church Service at Holy Trinity Church. ⛪️

Attended a Reception for Members, Racing Crews, Flag Officers and Sailing Associates at the Royal Yacht Squadron. 🥂

Total official engagements for Anne in July: 42

2023 total so far: 304

Total official engagements accompanied by Tim in July: 14

2023 total so far: 70

[aghotel]

Derby Cathedral: A historic gem in the heart of Derby

Derby Cathedral, originally established in 943, stands proudly as one of the most captivating historic sites in Derby. With its rich heritage and significant monuments, it serves as a testament to Derby’s and Derbyshire’s past. Inside its walls, a wealth of treasures awaits visitors, including the tomb of Bess of Hardwick, a memorial dedicated to Florence Nightingale, and a stunning wrought iron screen crafted by the talented Robert Bakewell.

The Enlightenment

During the Enlightenment period, the nave of Derby Cathedral underwent a remarkable transformation. In 1725, architect James Gibbs redesigned it in a Neo-Classical style, imbuing the interior with simplicity and an abundance of natural light. Despite having only two modern stained-glass windows, the cathedral’s plain interior is beautifully balanced by the inclusion of a magnificent wrought-iron chancel screen, skillfully fashioned by the local iron-smith Robert Bakewell. Stretching across the width of the church, this screen stands as a prominent feature and a testament to the craftsmanship of the time.

Derby Cathedral

Activities

The Bridge Chapel: Beyond the walls of Derby Cathedral, visitors can explore the nearby Bridge Chapel, a short 5-minute walk from the cathedral itself. Situated along the banks of the River Derwent, this medieval bridge chapel is one of only six remaining in the entire United Kingdom. Built to provide spiritual solace to travellers, it also served as a toll collection point for those crossing the bridge into Derby.

Guided Tours: For those seeking a deeper understanding of the cathedral’s history and significance, guided tours are available to individuals, groups, organizations, and clubs. Led by experienced guides, these tours offer valuable insights into the cathedral’s past, its monuments, and the workings of the cathedral itself.

Tower Tour: One of the highlights of a visit to Derby Cathedral is the opportunity to embark on a tower tour. This unique experience allows visitors to climb one of the tallest church towers in England, standing at an impressive 212 feet and consisting of 189 steps. From the top, breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its surroundings can be enjoyed. Additionally, the tower is available for private tour hire, providing an exclusive and memorable experience.

Cathedral Treasures: For those with an interest in ecclesiastical silverware, the Cathedral Treasures await discovery. Housed in the Sir Richard Morris Room of the Cathedral Centre, this collection showcases remarkable pieces, some dating as far back as 1491, with several originating from the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. Regrettably, the Sir Richard Morris Room is currently not open to casual visits from the public.

Timing:

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday: 09:00 – 17:15 Wednesday and Saturday: 09:00 – 17:00 Located just a brief 5-minute drive from The Stuart Hotel, Derby Cathedral offers a convenient and enriching experience for visitors. It is one of the best hotels in Derby near Derby train station – just a 5-minute walk away.The hotel is conveniently positioned on the bustling London Road (A6). After a day of exploration, retreat to our modern, comfortable, and spacious rooms for a restful night’s sleep. Alternatively, indulge in a delectable culinary experience at our fully equipped bar and restaurant, the ideal way to complete your stay. Learn more: www.aghotels.co.uk/the-stuart-hotel

[thestuart01]

Looking for the Perfect Venue for Your Meetings and Events?

When you're ready to search for the perfect venue, consider the Best Western The Stuart Hotel has the ideal accommodation to suit every business or leisure guest from single, cosy doubles and standard doubles to executive, family and junior suites. To know more info visit here - https://thestuart.com/meetings-and-events/

[nehakumar]

Book Best Luxurious Wedding Reception Venue Hotel in Derby

Book one of the best and most luxurious Wedding Reception Venues in Derby that holds all the standard amenities required for a wedding. It has different kinds of wedding packages in Derby to cater different sizes of weddings efficiently. That’s what makes it the best wedding venues in East Midlands.

[collecting-stories]

Innocence Lost - c. 08 - Tommy Shelby

Summary: Tommy makes a bad decision and the reader pays for it.

Gods & Monsters Masterlist | Peaky Blinders Masterlist

You stood in an empty restaurant on a busy street in London. The drapes had been pulled on all the windows and there were men stationed at the doors. Tommy sat in the middle of the room, with two men. Usually, Tommy had said before hand, he would've brought his own back-up, but John was still laid up and Arthur was with him. So it was just Tommy and you, standing by a door and trying to shrink back into the wall. This was somehow more intimidating than the club the other night. 

Tommy didn't seem nervous, though you weren't sure you had ever seen him nervous before. You thought back to Harry's warnings about staying away from the Shelbys. Maybe he'd been on to something. And probably, you should have listened when you had the chance. Suffered through that boring date to the pictures and gotten married to the man from your father's job. That would've been a safer option.  

You caught sight of Tommy shift in his chair, turning just enough toward you to let you know he wanted your attention. He waved you over and you went obediently, unsure what else you were meant to do. He'd told you that you were here to listen in and gather extra information but so far you were at a loss as to how he expected you to do that.  

"This is her." He said, once you'd reached his side.

The man across from him, the one who appeared to be in charge of the meeting, nodded. "Looks young. How old are you sweetheart?"

You gave him your age and he nodded once more, turning to his associate. They said nothing to each other but the associate still seemed to understand what his job was because he stood and gestured for you to follow him.  

"Go with him." Tommy instructed.  

Was this when you were meant to get extra information? He led you back behind the bar and through a door to a private room similar to the one in the Garrison. You gave him your coat when he offered to hang it up for you.  

"Just do as he says yeah?" He stated and left the room.  

You watched as the heavy door shut behind him. The room reminded you of the one in the Garrison and you thought briefly about how you would much rather be back there scrubbing vomit off the floor than in here. Just as you were beginning to calm yourself down a noise from behind you made you turn, heart speeding again. Surely the meeting wasn’t over already.

“It’s alright peaches, it’s just me.” Arthur Shelby held his hands out in surrender, his voice barely a whisper in the dimly lit room and his face mostly shadowed. But you recognized that accent anywhere.

“Arthur, what’s going on?” You asked, following his lead and whispering yourself.

“Me and Johnny been hiding all morning in here waiting for this. You just gotta play along and when he’s comfortable we’ll spring on him.” Arthur explained and you realized that Johnny was sitting on a chair in the corner. 

You let out a relieved sigh, nodding that you understood their request. “I thought...”

“Tommy wouldn’t leave you in here like that. He’s not always the brightest, common sense wise, but he’d never let anyone hurt you.” Arthur assured.

“I’m just the secretary.” You didn’t know why you insisted on saying so but it felt necessary to remind Arthur of your low standing. 

“Course you are love.”

Arthur and Johnny took up their postions, effectively sinking back into the shadows as footsteps sounded outside the door. You moved to stand under the light in front of the door, hoping it would further block them from sight. 

The man from earlier, the one who was in charge, came through the door. He hung his hat on the same coat rack that your jacket was hanging from. You tried to look confident when he came in, unsure what you were meant to do or what exactly he expected. This had not been what you imagined this morning when Tommy told you to dress nicely. Despite Arthur being there your nerves were running haywire. 

"What's your name?" The man asked, taking a seat.  

You introduced yourself, trying to appear calm. The room was dimly lit and the windows had all been covered with heavy drapes to keep out any curious eyes. 

"I'm Charles Sabini, my friends call me Derby." He stated, "we are not friends though, so you may call me Mr. Sabini. Alright?"

"Yes Mr. Sabini."  

"See, so smart, just like Tommy said you were. I don't expect you to be speaking unless those exact words are the ones coming out of your mouth okay?"

"Yes Mr. Sabini."

He leaned back in his chair and motioned for you to come toward him. You did, letting your eyes stray behind his head for just a moment. Long enough to see Johnny Dogs step out of the shadows but short enough not to arouse suspicion. You kept your eyes on Sabini, so much that you didn’t pay attention to Johnny’s movements. So the surprise was genuinue.

You screamed and fell backwards in the shock. Johnny had taken a cord and cut it up under Sabini’s neck. You watched in horror as he grabbed at his neck, trying to get a grip on the cord that was digging into his skin and choking him. Your whole body felt frozen and you you stared on in horror as Arthur came out to aid in the blitz attack.

Despite working for Tommy you had never been wittness to the violence that consumed his world. You stayed in the office or in his home after hours, writing out notes for him. It was easy to pretend everything Tommy did was legal when you saw none of it.

It felt as if you had a cloud over your eyes. Arthur led you out the back door of the private room, the same way that he and Johnny had come in. You followed wordlessly, unable to clear the vision of them attacking Sabini or calm your breathing. Neither of them spoke until the car pulled up in front of the hotel Tommy had booked for you. Arthur cut the engine and turned back to look at you, huddled in the back seat with your coat practically swallowing you. It had been a long time since you’d felt so small and scared.

“We’ll get you in the morning.” He mentioned. Johnny opened the door for you and you realized that they expected you to be able to walk into the house like nothing happened.

When you returned to your own room that night you found it empty. Tommy had cleared John out of the room while you were with Arthur. You took your suitcase from underneath the bed and packed the few items that you had brought with you to London. You stripped out of the peach dress that Tommy had told you looked so good on you and tossed it into the fireplace.

All you knew was that you had to get away from this room and this situation. You had just watched Arthur and Johnny beat a man to death. Even here in the safety of your room you couldn’t stop shaking.

You boiled water and had a bath in the small wash basin they'd provided at the hotel. You scrubbed your arms and legs until they were red, some softer bits of skin rubbed off to blisters. You couldn't be sure if it was the burn of the water that was making you cry but you had a feeling it had nothing to do with your bath.  

"I need a cab to the train station." You told the man at the front desk when you had finally gotten yourself together enough to dress and leave.  

"The train doesn't run til morning." He replied, "no sense in going to the station now."

"I need a cab to the train station." You repeated. You could not stay here one moment longer. You could not wait for the possibility of morning and Tommy coming to wake you with an apology and an explanation that rationalized everything in his mind.  

The young man walked outside with you and waited until the cab arrived, helping you with the luggage you had and taking your room key back. "If a Thomas Shelby comes looking for me tell him you have not seen me."  

"Of course." The young man nodded, taking the money you offered in exchange for his silence.  

The cab took you to the train station and you found occupancy on a bench near the ticket window until morning. You would get on the first train out of London and you would never bother yourself with Thomas Shelby again, so long as you could help it.  

-

Some interesting twists ahead. 

[aghotel]

Escape to CONKERS: Derby’s hidden gem in The National Fores

If you are planning a trip to Derby and in search of a distinctive blend of indoor and outdoor activities for the whole family, look no further than CONKERS. Situated in The Heart of The National Forest, this award-winning attraction offers a multitude of engaging options regardless of the weather.

Indoor adventures abound with four discovery zones to explore. Kids will be enchanted by the Enchanted Forest Adventure Play area, while thrill-seekers can experience a simulated Tree Top Walk complete with a moving bridge, offering a journey through the skies to the captivating caves beyond. But that’s not all! If you prefer the great outdoors, CONKERS provides a wonderful opportunity to unwind amidst 120 acres of picturesque woodland, gardens, and lakes. Plus, the new Conkerchoo II train conveniently connects the Discovery and Waterside Centres.

For those with an adventurous spirit, CONKERS offers the exhilarating 450-meter Barefoot Walk, as well as an 18-stage assault course for the ultimate challenge. Scale the sky viewing tower for breathtaking treetop panoramas or unleash your inner child at the Playdale adventure playground. And coming soon this Easter, prepare for an exciting 4D cinema experience!

CONKERS also organizes various activity programs during school holidays, ensuring there’s always something special to enjoy. For an extra thrill, you can try the new Aerial Adventure featuring high and low ropes, a climbing wall, a thrilling 110-meter zip wire, and the heart-pumping power fan descender. Please note that additional charges apply for the Aerial Adventure.

Make sure not to miss out on the jam-packed lineup of events at CONKERS, ranging from Santa’s Winter Wonderland to live music performances in the covered amphitheatre. And for those seeking a spooktacular experience, Halloween and Firework Nights are not to be missed! To stay up to date with the latest happenings, check out their comprehensive What’s on section at www.visitconkers.com/events/all-events/. CONKERS is located at Rawdon Road, near Swadlincote in South Derbyshire, with the postcode DE12 6GA.

Operating hours are as follows: Winter: 10am – 5pm Summer: 10am – 6pm Closed on December 25th and 26th.

Best of all, CONKERS is just a short 36-minute drive from The Stuart Hotel. The 4-star hotel in Derby is within easy reach of Derby train station – just a 5-minute walk away and is conveniently positioned on the bustling London Road (A6). Book your stay: www.aghotels.co.uk/the-stuart-hotel/

[thestuart01]

Conference Room Hire in Derby City Centre

Our meeting rooms are designed to give you the maximum flexibility you desire. It can be used as a whole catering for up to 180 delegates in a theatre style, or The Suite can be split in to two halves, or three separate meeting rooms. All rooms have direct daylight and air conditioning. Packages are bespoke to your personal requirements whether it’s a day meeting or a brain storing session for a couple of hours. To know more info visit here - https://thestuart.com/meetings-and-events/

[nehakumar]

Book the Best Hotel in Derby Town Centre - The Stuart

BEST WESTERN The Stuart hotel is one kind of luxury with best location in Derby City Centre and holds the ideal accommodation for the all kinds of guests (business or leisure).  All credit goes to the variety of rooms that it has: from cozy single bedrooms to double bedrooms to that of the executive double bedrooms and the junior suites.

[cebeavers]

Cedar Point 2018

May 25 & 26, 2018 Photo Album Video Album

If you can’t find a way to go to Cedar Point during dead week, Memorial Day Weekend has proven to be a great time to head to Cedar Point and find moderate attendance and lighter lines.  In the past four years I’ve spent 3 Memorial Day weekends at the park, and have had a great time on each visit.  Even with the long drive from North Carolina to Sandusky, the trip is worth it to visit America’s Roller Coast, and having followed the transformation of Mean Streak into Steel Vengeance over the last 2 years, I was determined to get to the park this year to ride.  My friends Isaac and Blake joined in, and on Friday morning we headed north.

Isaac found a nice AirBnB about 30 minutes south of the park and, after stopping off there to drop off our stuff and freshen up, we made our way onto the peninsula.  We parked in the Cedar Point Shores parking lot since the Magnum lot was closed, and headed in to meet up with Bryan Bird.  After introductions and salutations, we walked towards Dragster, which was testing after being closed.  The line opened as we walked by, so we quickly got into the queue as the wait wouldn’t be this short all weekend most likely.

Dragster is always a great experience, even if it isn’t a great coaster.  We waited about 35 minutes or so to ride near the back of the train.  Dragster always makes me anxious because of that launch.  This was Blake’s first time at the park and first time on anything like this.  As always, the launch was super fast and intense and I really still like Dragster as a ride.  This was our only ride all weekend because it was being cranky both days.

We walked around the front of the park and headed over towards Millennium Force.  I noticed when driving by that the line started at the end of the ramp and was happy to see that was still the case.  It only took about 30 minutes to get on the ride.  I know the coaster gets a lot of ‘hate’, but I actually really like it.  The first drop is already amazing and the setting can’t be beat.  There is airtime on the two hills hopping back over from the island, and even the small hop by the station gives you a rise out of your seat.  Blake once again loved it.

After that we headed across the midway to Rougarou, which was nearly a walk on, and we got on in the back.  The ride packs a punch and is so much better than Mantis ever was.  We walked around for a bit and thru Frontier Town.  Steel Vengeance had a very long line, so we walked around the park and finally hit up the burger joint back near Steel Vengeance as Bryan said the food was good.  And the food was decent.  The customer service, however, was severely lacking.  It took way too long and they kept messing up orders, but eventually we did get our burgers.  After that we headed to the entrance to Steel Vengeance to get in line to end our nite.  The wait was about an hour and twenty minutes with them running one train.

Steel Vengeance-I can’t even give a proper rundown of the ride.  Its just as good as everyone said, no overhyping here.  The first drop was amazing.  We rode in the back seat.  The 90 degree drop was amazing.  After that you have the two outward banked ejector airtime hills. Then I can’t honestly tell you much about what happened because it was a big convoluted mess.  And I mean that in the most awesome way possible.  This coaster has the intensity of Voyage (the only ride I can say is in it’s category), but without the rattle (however slight) that any wooden coaster can have.  I was weak in the knees and dizzy afterwards for a good thirty minutes.  Instant number one.  It delivers every thing.  All of the things.  It has them.  Airtime, floater and ejector.  Sideways airtime.  Inversions.  Insanity.

So that was the end of the first evening.  I was in total ecstasy.  And it shown thru for the entire ride back to the AirBnB thirty minutes away.  Once we got there we got our stuff together and I took a shower and quickly fell asleep.

The next morning we got up and got ready to head out.  There was a McDonalds down the street that was good for breakfast.  We pulled into the parking lot right around 9am and headed in for Platinum Pass early entry.  We had planned to go straight back and get on Steele Vengeance, but once we got back there the line was already full.  We decided to forgo that till the end of the day once again and get some other early rides in.  And the closest early ride was Maverick.  I still love Maverick in every way.  I’m glad they’re restoring effects.  Thusfar some of the lights in the tunnel are working.  I can’t wait till the LED walls and more of the effects are added back in in the tunnel.  It really helps an already amazing ride.

It was getting close to park opening so we headed up to Valravn thru Frontier Town, stopping by the closed petting zoo for a brief visit with some donkeys.  On our last trip, Isaac and I got a back row nite ride because it was the debut year and the line was really long, and the ride barely ran the next day.  This was my first daytime ride, and we rode in the front row this time.

Valravn-That first drop on any dive coaster is great.  The view from Valravn though, is really beautiful.  While not a huge fan of dive coasters I do think this is the best layout, even if Sheikra has better theming.  The inversions are smooth and that zero g roll has great airtime, which was hitting much harder on this visit.  I really like the coaster more on a second go round.

As we were in the area we hit up Blue Streak, which was (and has been for some time now) running phenomenally along the track.  Great airtime and such a classic coaster.  Then we walked over towards the front of the park.  I mentioned at some point that I wanted to ride Ocean Motion as I never had, and it has such a cute, quaint setting.

Though I'm still trying to get back down to my pre-surgery weight of 2015 (I’ve lost 20lbs since December!), I’m not skinny enough to ride Wicked Twister.  And that’s fine for now because I know I’ll be back down.  But I didn’t want Isaac nor Blake to miss out, so after getting some Starbucks I told them to get in line while I sat and watched and had some coffee.

Since we were already in the area and close to Gatekeeper, that was what we got in line for next, which was basically a walk-on.  Maybe a one train wait.  I know this coaster gets a lot of flack for being big and snoopy and boring, but I like big and snoopy and don’t think it’s boring.  Plus it’s very stunning to look at.  After Gatekeeper I took Blake to see the top floor of the Coliseum, knowing that he’d love the big band era art deco.

We decided to have lunch, and with Isaac having some food allergies, and Blake being in the mood for it, we decided to hit Panda Express.  Oh, and since I have the dining pass, I was fine with it too.  We walked over to Melt first as I wanted to try it out at some point and decided to have dinner there.  Then we walked to the main midway and followed a marching band.  As we walked across the park we were able to see some of the rehearsal for the new show on the former Luminosity stage.  Meh.  I liked Luminosity. Once we were done eating we got in line for Iron Dragon.  This was actually one of the longer waits of the day, clocking in at around 20 minutes.  But thats okay.  I can give or take Iron Dragon, but didn’t want Blake to miss out.

I wanted to see what the wait for Steel Vengeance would be like so our next stop was back in that corner of the park, but sadly the line was well over 2 hours.  We walked back to the main midway and hit up Derby Racer.  I love this thing.  I really need to ride the other 2 at some point.  At that point we were on our way out the front gate to move the car and hit up the water park for a bit.  The lines were even lighter at Cedar Point Shores.  I never visited Soak City.  The current waterpark looks outstanding.  Much better than what it used to be.  We weren’t planning on staying very long.  After changing into our swim trunks we headed over to some random slide complex and did a pink slide.

Isaac and I had wanted to do the drop slides, as we love them at Carowinds, but we passed for the moment and went to the big family raft slide.  As we neared the top, we could see a storm coming our way.  The large raft slide was really a lot of fun, and I got some good airtime up the side of the trough.  At the end it was starting to sprinkle, so we went for a dip in the older lazy river.  I wish Carowinds’ Lazy River was this long (Or that they had 2 like CPS).  As the rain got heavier we decided to call it a day at the water park after about an hour and a half just as the bottom dropped out of the clouds.

We went into the bathhouse and changed while basically being stranded in their for around 30 minutes.  Then once the rain subsided enough we headed to the car then drove over to Hotel Breakers for a drink at their bar.  I also had a cinnamon bun from Starbucks whilst drinking my Long Island Iced Tea.

The sun came out while we were hanging at Breakers so we headed down the boardwalk and entered the park by Windseeker, which I contest is still the best one of the group thus far.  Then I wanted to get some pictures from the Ferris Wheel, so that was obviously next.  We had looked at the line for Raptor before going to Shores, but it was still long.  At this point, however, the line was maybe 20 minutes so we hit that up next.  Blake and Isaac were then going to get their credits on Corkscrew as I took some photos, but the line was really long so we headed to Melt for dinner.  This was my first (and hopefully not last) Melt experience.  Our server was great and so was the food.  I like all of the nostalgia Cedar Point pictures in the restaurant.

A ride on the CP & LE railroad was our next stop.  Had it not been getting late we’d have rode the entire circuit but Blake still needed some rides and we hadn’t ridden two of the best rides in the park, so we took another look at Steel Vengeance’s line, then headed over to Gemini.  At this point it was only running the red side, but the ride was still super fun as always.

By this point it was a little past twilight and we headed to Magnum.  I couldn’t take my small nap sack on so I waited for Blake and Isaac to ride, then Isaac took all of our stuff to the car while Blake and I rode in the front of the car at nite.  Magnum is as glorious as ever, even if I didn’t get trim free rides this time.  But that’s…okay.

Blake still needed the mine train, but I needed a bathroom, so I told him to go ride that since I knew it would be a walk on while I went to the restroom, then we headed to Steel Vengeance to meet up.  The fireworks were going off as Blake and Isaac arrived and we got in line just before the point we had the nite before.  Again it was somewhere between 70 and 90 minutes to ride, but I lucked out and got a ride in row 8 as a single rider.  And it was still so amazing.  As we walked to the Magnum entrance to the park, I saw my first Dragster rollback.

My only main issues with the visit was that obviously they’re only running one train on Steel Vengeance, otherwise I’d have ridden a few more times as lines were light all weekend.  Cedar Point nearly every year is starting to spoil me as I’ve been 3 of the past four Memorial Days.  I think I’ll likely skip next year, but I will definitely be back for more of America’s Roller Coast soon.

We headed back to the AirBnB and we were all wiped out, so I fell asleep pretty soon after closing my eyes, ready for the drive the next morning to Kings Island.

[a13xbedlow]

Derby canal sites

Derby Arm and Pride Park

The site of the Derby arm and the information centre will sit along the bank of the Derwent at the back of pride park. There will be a bridge linking pride park and the canal sites together to form a cluster of tourist attractions. I think by doing this, more people would visit the Pride Park area and the Wyvern retail park.

This is the current site, with the football stadium and Derby arena to the left. To the right is where the info centres and restaurants will be.

This is the view of the bridge over the canal and the river. Aims to connect the restaurants to Pride Park directly are in mind in these plans.

This is how the information centre will look like next to the Derby arm. A building this close makes a viewing platform inside the centre feasable for visitors to view the boat lift from inside under shelter. The health risks are lowered as people would be viewing here rather than at the canal edge. This will hopefully result in less casualties regarding the canal.

A diagram of the Derby arm. The purpose is a boat lift to lift the boats between the canal and the river. This is instead of a lock and to also put modern technology to good use.

New basin and hotel

The area behind the train station near West meadows will become a new marina basin with a hotel. This will be the main turn around area and mooring area for people visiting Derby via canal. It will make the city more centralized with people visiting the eastern areas with the majority of the city being sat around the western side.

New lock and boat moarings

A new lock is planning to be located on the opposite side of the river to the bus station (between the trees in the middle and the closest side) so the boats can navigate the river and miss the weir. The steps outside the council house will have an accessible mooring area for both canal boats owned by the public and the boat trip vessel that will run from Pride Park to Darley Abbey.

This is the chosen site for boats to access the city centre and where a lock will transport boats to the higher level of the river.

This is how river cruises and boats on the river would look. It would make use of the river really well and make the city revolve around it once again. The boats that will be used as river taxis will be electric, ran through solar panels built into their roofs to make them economic and carbon neutral.

This is the placement of the lock flight to allow the boats to go up to the same water level as the council house moorings.

Silk mill boat dock

The silk mill will have a jetty for the boat trip vessel to dock for people to board and get off to access cathedral green and the Silk mill. The mill is currently going restoration into a ‘creative making workshop’ for people to learn about the industrial revolution and the importance of the river in an interactive way.

Darley Abbey boat terminus

The Darley Abbey mill complex is where the boat trip will terminate due to the weir and the navigation proving more difficult as the course progresses. This mill site is one of the derwent valley mill complexes, having a rich history and a major role in the industrial revolution, helping to create the term ‘mass production’ for the rest of the world to follow.

[abujaihs-blog]

11 megadevelopments that will transform Chicago

Chicago developers are making bold plays to turn long-vacant brownfield sites, obsolete industrial corridors, and underutilized historic buildings into megadevelopments. The recent push to “go big or go home” represents a desire to land big corporate tenants, like Amazon, and attract more company headquarters. At least five sites across the city were pitched to Amazon during the HQ2 search in 2018, and although the tech giant passed, the developers there are all forging ahead. Some critics say that supersized projects lack an authentic, organic feeling, but the big projects are sometimes the only way to bring new housing, parks, offices, and infrastructure to Chicago’s otherwise vacant sites. Right now there are 11 major Chicago megadevelopments in the works. Some are already under construction, while others remain long-term visions for the future. Here’s a look at the large, multiphase projects that will reshape the city in the decades to come.

1. Lincoln Yards

Few Chicago developments in recent memory have received as much attention as Lincoln Yards: a $6 billion plan to turn more than 55 acres of industrial riverfront real estate between Lincoln Park and Bucktown into a sprawling mixed-use campus. Here, developer Sterling Bay envisions 14.5 million-square-feet of high-rise buildings supporting 23,000 full-time jobs and 6,000 residential units as well as 21 acres of parkland, three new bridges, and an extension of The 606 trail. To help pay for the public infrastructure improvements, the company has a deal with the city to receive $1.3 billion in controversial tax increment financing (TIF).  

Sterling Bay plans to start work on athletic fields as well as a cluster of phase one office buildings on the site’s northern end soon. It’s unclear if a pending lawsuit against the project will affect the developer’s timeline. The entire Lincoln Yards development is expected to take roughly ten years to complete.

Sterling Bay/Skidmore, Owings & Merrill OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS

2. The 78

1364 S Clark St Chicago, IL 60605 While Lincoln Yards looks to build a neighborhood from scratch on Chicago River’s north branch, developer Related Midwest is planning to do the same on the south branch with its 62-acre mixed-use plan known as The 78. Located between Chicago’s South Loop and Chinatown communities, the ambitious project is approved for 13 million-square-feet of buildings—some rising as high as 950 feet—which are expected to house a combined 10,000 residential units and 24,000 workers. The site is also earmarked for a University of Illinois-affiliated innovation center. Before work can begin, The 78 has its own set TIF-supported infrastructure improvements including a realignment of existing Metra tracks, new streets, a riverwalk, and a $300 million Red Line station at Clark and 15th Street.

Related Midwest/Skidmore, Owings & Merrill OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS

3. The River District

554 N Jefferson St Chicago, IL 60654 This third riverfront megadevelopment is located roughly halfway between Lincoln Yards and The 78, on 30 acres of Tribune Media-owned land in River West. Known as the River District, the 8.5 million-square-foot project has zoning approval for up to 14 mixed-use buildings supporting an estimated 4,100 residential units and 19,000 jobs. Phase one of the River District calls for 1,500 residential units in two high-rises between Grand Avenue and the Ohio-Ontario feeder ramp. Although Tribune Media said that construction could begin by 2020, the company is currently seeking a buyer or joint venture partner for its River West megaproject.

Tribune Media/Solomon Cordwell Buenz OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS

4. Riverline and Southbank

720 S Wells St Chicago, IL 60699 Even though its developers Lendlease and CMK agreed to part ways and split their $2 billion project in half, the Riverline and Southbank developments will still transform 14 acres of vacant land along the Chicago River’s south branch between Harrison Street and Roosevelt Road. The plan, by architecture firm Perkins+Will, calls for 3,700 residences spread across eight waterfront towers and blocks of townhouse and includes new commercial retail space, a public riverwalk, and water taxi stops. So far only one building, a high-rise apartment tower known as the Cooper at Southbank, has been completed. Crews are currently at work building the new riverwalk segment south of Harrison Street.

Perkins+Will OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS

5. Wolf Point South, East, and West

343 W Wolf Point Plaza Chicago, IL 60654 (833) 556-3481 Visit Website Located at the confluence of the Chicago River’s main, south, and north branches, Wolf Point is among the city’s most prominent developments sites. After spending decades as a parking lot, the high-profile peninsula will eventually host a trio of glassy skyscrapers. The 485-foot Wolf Point West apartment tower opened in 2016 and will soon be joined by the 660-foot Wolf Point East rental tower, currently under construction. The final piece of megadevelopment, an 813-foot-tall Salesforce-anchored office skyscraper, is expected to break ground in 2020 and open in early 2023

6. Lakeshore East: Vista, Cirus, Cascade, Parcel I, Parcel O

400 East South Water Street Chicago, IL 60601 After decades of gradually welcoming more than a dozen mixed-use buildings, downtown’s 28-acre masterplanned Lakeshore East community is just five towers away from being complete. The most visible addition is Jeanne Gang’s Vista Tower which recently topped off at 1,191 feet on its way to a spring 2020 completion date. The supertall hotel and residential tower will eventually be joined by a 47-story condo tower known as Cirrus, a 37-story apartment tower called Cascade, and an 80-story residential building at Parcel I. Magellan Development’s last piece of the Lakeshore East puzzle is a 650-foot-tall combination apartment and hotel tower proposed for Parcel O.

bKL Architecture OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS Curbed Chicago Newsletter SUBSCRIBE By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy and European users agree to the data transfer policy.

7. One Central

1590 S Lake Shore Dr Chicago, IL 60605 As the most recent megaproject to make an appearance, the $20 billion One Central proposal looks to cap the train tracks west of Soldier Field and build skyscrapers, parks, and a transit hub above. The 34-acre plan would also serve Metra, CTA, and Amtrak trains plus a proposed “Chi-Line” tramway utilizing the sunken bus lanes between Millennium Park and McCormick Place. Wisconsin-based Landmark Development is hoping to strike a deal with lawmakers in Springfield to have the State of Illinois pay for—and eventually own—the project’s $3.8 billion transit center with the new tax revenue it is expected to generate. If financing can be secured and state and local officials sign off on the plan, Landmark wants to start work on the transit center as early as next year and anticipates a three-year construction timeline. The full $20 billion One Central development could take more than a decade to complete.

Landmark Development OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS

8. Old Post Office

433 W Van Buren St Chicago, IL 60607 While the redevelopment of Chicago’s abandoned Old Post Office includes only a single building, the project is nonetheless massive. In fact, the plan to transform the 2.8 million-square-foot-building into brand new office space is the nation’s single largest adaptive reuse project currently under construction. Developer 601W Companies acquired the property from the late British billionaire Bill Davies in 2016 and work to bring the old building back to life began shortly thereafter. The Gensler-designed redo includes a renovation of the Art Deco lobby and the creation of tenant amenitiesincluding a fitness center, lounges, a food court, and a huge rooftop deck. The first office tenant, Walgreens, hopes to move into the Post Office in late 2019 and will be eventually joined by Ferrara Candy, the Chicago Metropolitan Agency, ad agency AbelsonTaylor, and Kroger. There’s a rumor that Uber is considering an enormous 450,000-square-foot lease in this historic downtown building.

Gensler OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS

9. Union Station

225 S Canal St Chicago, IL 60606 Just north of the Old Post Office, a $1 billion plan is underway to redevelop Chicago’s Union Station and surrounding Amtrak property. The project, led by Riverside Investment & Development and Convexity Properties, got off to a somewhat awkward start. After proposing an unpopular seven-story apartment addition atop the station’s historic headhouse, the redevelopment team scaled back its planand instead opted for a more conservative design that would convert the unoccupied upper levels of the building into new hotel rooms and add only a single-story penthouse. Union Station’s redevelopment also calls for a new 700-foot office toweranchored by BMO Financial Group to rise a block south of the historic train depot. That building is expected to break ground in 2019 and open in 2022, but an existing Amtrak parking garage must first be demolished.

Riverside Investment & Development/Goettsch Partners OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS

10. Burnham Lakefront

2929 S Ellis Ave Chicago, IL 60616 On Chicago’s Near South Side, a team led by Farpoint Development has plans to revitalize the long-vacant 100-acre Michael Reese Hospital site located just south of McCormick Place in Bronzeville. Although the redevelopment team showed Amazon a massive 8 million to 14 million-square-foot vision for the site—dubbed the Burnham Lakefront—during the 2017 HQ2 derby, its latest plan is moving forward more slowly. Farpoint is currently working with the surrounding community to shape a conceptual design for the first phase of the plan which may include affordable housing, a research facility, public art, parks, and plazas. The team will still need to take control of the site and go through city approvals before any work can begin.

Farpoint Development/Chicago’s 4th Ward OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS

11. South Bridge

2310 S State St Chicago, IL 60616 Status: Approved The Michael Reese site isn’t the only large-scale, multi-phased project in the works for Bronzeville. A joint venture formed by McCaffery Interests is preparing to begin construction on an 11-acre redevelopment of the demolished Harold L. Ickes public housing complex. Known as South Bridge, the plan calls for nearly 900 mixed-income residences to spread across clusters of townhomes, six-story apartment buildings, and a mid-rise tower at the southwest corner of Cermak and State. According to its zoning application, the project also includes 75,000 square feet of retail, public plazas, and at least 270 on-site parking spaces. Work on South Bridge could start as early as this summer, according to 3rd Ward Alderman Pat Dowell.

Ickes Master Developer JV, LLC Source: By Jay Koziarz  Read the full article

[thestuart01]

Weekend Short Breaks Derbyshire

Enjoy weekend breaks derby a three course dinner in the XS Restaurant on your first night followed by overnight accommodation and full English breakfast to set you up for the day ahead. Return to the hotel for a complimentary cocktail before deciding on your evening plans.

[chriskarrtravelblog]

Regional guide to the Peak District

From heathery moors to rolling hills and underground caverns, the Peak District is home to some of the most majestic landscapes in the country

In the Peak District, heritage takes different forms. Britain is home to 15 National Parks, and the oldest of them is found right here. This much-loved swathe of the Midlands, covering some 555 square miles of dramatic hill terrain, was the very first National Park to be created, back in 1951. To many minds, it still belongs at the top of the pile.

Illustration: Michael Hill

But the history of the Peak District extends way beyond a mid-20th-century assignation. Neanderthal stone tools have been found in its caves, Bronze Age burial mounds still hunch on its ridges and the remnants of age-old hillforts litter its slopes. The Romans came here too, setting out roads and mining for lead, an abundant mineral which later brought fortune to local landowners. The end result is an area dotted with grand stately homes and ancient remains, all of them dwarfed by the wide-open wonders of the landscape itself.  

Looked at on the map, unfurled in the green space between Sheffield, Derby and Manchester, the region can be divided into two quite separate areas. The northern half of the National Park, sitting on gritstone rock and characterised by high areas of open moorland, is known as the Dark Peak. The southern half, formed of limestone and playing home to gentle dales, burbling rivers and ash woodland, is known as the White Peak.

Both are fascinating in their own right. The Dark Peak contains the iconic plateau of Kinder Scout, where a mass trespass of 500 walkers in 1932 led to a change in the laws regarding access rights, something the country as a whole still benefits from today. Of the two, however, it’s the White Peak which holds more appeal for the first-time visitor, not least because of the variety of its attractions. 

Many of these places of interest are manmade. The wider region contains history-rich market towns like Bakewell, home to the famed pudding of the same name, and Buxton, once a fashionable spa resort and still renowned for its spring water. You’ll also find fascinating little villages such as Eyam, famously cut off from the outside world by a 17th-century plague outbreak, and Youlgreave, one of many settlements that still practices well dressing, a local tradition of decorating wells with flowers and other natural materials a few weeks after Easter.

Dovedale is known for its stepping stones and meandering river. Credit: Alan Novelli/Alamy

Tucked among the Peak District’s rolling hills, meanwhile, are some of the finest stately homes in central England. Top of the list is surely spectacular Chatsworth House, where more than 100 acres of gardens surround a truly grand residence which has passed down through 16 generations of the Cavendish family. Its art collection alone – spanning four millennia – means it should be part of any Peak District itinerary, and Capability Brown himself had a hand in the layout of the gardens.

But Chatsworth is just the start. The region also holds the Elizabethan masterwork that is Hardwick Hall – where the windows are so numerous it’s often described as “more glass than wall” – and the crenellated medieval majesty of Haddon Hall, which has starred on screen in both Jane Eyre and Pride and Prejudice. Lyme Park, once a hunting lodge and still an imposing stately home, is another gem with extensive grounds.

By way of contrast to these mighty mansions rising from the land, the White Peak also has large-scale attractions underground. Poole’s Cavern near Buxton is home to vast subterranean chambers, and the show caves around the town of Castleton – so named for the ruined 11th-century castle that still stands here – provide more of the same.

Haddon Hall has been famous for its roses since Elizabethan times

Some of these, such as Treak Hill Cavern and Blue John Cavern, grant access to natural netherworlds of rare rock types and age-old stalactites and stalagmites. Others, including Speedwell Cavern and Peak Cavern – the latter, incidentally, also known as The Devil’s Arse – give insight into the underground industry and mining practices that have been a part of Peak District life for so long. 

The creator of Sherlock Holmes, Arthur Conan Doyle, was so impressed by the scale and extent of the mines and caves beneath the region that he pronounced “all this country is hollow – could you strike it with some gigantic hammer it would boom like a drum.” It’s known that the author once stayed at Castleton, and the fact that he later set a story in the area shows that the formations above ground made no less of an impression.

Not far from Castleton is the great shapely hill of Mam Tor, arguably the best-known summit in the National Park. Once the site of a hillfort, its 517-metre-high top can be reached with relative ease via a paved footpath. Being roughly at the centre of the entire region, it grants deep views in every direction. If you’re in the mood for continuing the walk, the Great Ridge carries on from Mam Tor, eventually rising to meet Lose Hill, a popular hike of around 2.5 miles each way.

Once a spa resort, Buxton is renowned for its spring water. Credit: Ian Hubball/Alamy

The Peak District is full of more challenging outdoor options, from the climbing hotspot of the Stanage Edge escarpment to long-distance treks such as the Pennine Way, which begins here in the mellow little village of Edale. If you’d rather sample the scenery in a more sedate manner, however, the options are just as numerous. 

The three adjoining reservoirs of Ladybower, Derwent and Howden offer miles of flat walking and cycling terrain, as well as the chance to encounter more history – the area was used for dummy trials of Professor Barnes Wallis’ famous ‘bouncing bomb’ in the Second World War, thanks to its physical resemblance to Germany’s Rühr dams. It later starred in the film The Dam Busters. 

Further south is picturesque Dovedale, a valley known for its stepping stones and meandering river. It draws plenty of visitors, but do make the effort to walk past the stepping stones, after which the crowds start to thin. And if you’d rather avoid the main flow of tourism altogether, the region has a whole host of quieter scenic valleys, among them Cressbrook Dale, Monk’s Dale and Peter Dale. Because that’s the thing with a place as broad and varied as the Peak District – it’s packed with attractions, but there’s also plenty of space to go round. Which, somewhere as handsome as this, can only be a good thing.

Getting there

The Peak District is easily reached by car, being around 3hr 15min from London, 1hr 30min from Birmingham and only an hour or so from Manchester. The National Park is also well served by bus and rail, with train stations at places such as Edale, Hope and Hathersage. nationalexpress.com; thetrainline.com

Where to stay

The Cavendish Hotel on the Chatsworth House estate offers finely furnished rooms and an excellent restaurant. The Peacock at Rowsley is a luxurious option near Bakewell with four-poster bedrooms and a fine-dining restaurant. Alstonefield Manor is a B&B with bags of charm, set in a country house on the hills above Dovedale. Expect fresh flowers, high-class decor and scones and tea on arrival. cavendishbaslow.co.uk; thepeacockatrowsley.com; alstonefieldholidaycottages.com    

Where to eat

An atmospheric 18th-century pub on the village green at Alstonefield, The George offers Michelin-recommended dining, thanks in part to having its own vegetable garden. Other local produce, such as Derbyshire beef, features heavily on the menu. thegeorgeatalstonefield.com

READ MORE: The Lake District: an insider’s guide

The post Regional guide to the Peak District appeared first on Britain Magazine | The official magazine of Visit Britain | Best of British History, Royal Family,Travel and Culture.

Britain Magazine | The official magazine of Visit Britain | Best of British History, Royal Family,Travel and Culture https://www.britain-magazine.com/features/guide-peak-district/

source https://coragemonik.wordpress.com/2019/10/01/regional-guide-to-the-peak-district/

[cynthiabryanuk]

Royal Train conserved from the scrapheap after Queen makes it known it is still her favoured mode of transport

ince the reign of Queen Victoria its well upholstered carriages and reliable engines have transported members of the Royal Household the length and breadth of the country.However, the expense of running the Royal Train led to questions from MPs over its continuing usage and it was exposed in 2013 that it would soon need to be scrapped.But The Telegraph can now expose that the Royal Train is to continue into the foreseeable future.The Queen is understood to have made it recognized that the train is her preferred

mode of transport, and that she believes it to be a cost-efficient and practical method for the royal household to travel.Tests were then performed on the carriages, which revealed the train’s demise had actually been considerably exaggerated.

The Queen with Prince Andrew( right)and Prince Edward(

centre)in a compartment of the Royal Train before departure from London in December 1965 Credit: Popperfoto/Getty Images I nstead of being ready for the scrapyard, Palace sources stated the Royal Train was discovered to be

in far better condition than formerly thought. The source added there was now”no end in sight”to its use.There were doubts over the train’s future when Sir Alan Reid, the Keeper of the Privy Bag, told a committee of

MPs four years ago that the present rolling stock, mainly dating from the 1970s, had only five to 10 years of service life left.After that, he stated, the prospect of changing it would be a “major choice”, including:” The figures are quite

incredible. “However with memories still fresh of the fate of the Royal Private Yacht Britannia-which was retired in 1997 to the Queen’s tearful distress-further tests were brought out on the train’s rolling stock. The Royal Train at Wolverton Works, near Milton Keynes Credit: Phil Marsh s a result

it was found that its life might be extended by many years which with further efficiency savings the

train’s running costs could be reduced.A Palace source stated:”Sir Alan Reid reported to Parliament a couple of years ago that the train may have to be decommissioned soon. Because then tests have revealed it has more life in it than formerly believed. “There’s no end in sight to its usage and no repaired, concurred horizon in regards to when it will end up being unusable or be decommissioned. For the Queen and members of the Royal Household it is a practical and

expense effective method of travelling, enabling them to stay the night close to the area of an engagement the following day– however without triggering the interruption or security expenses that, say, a hotel in a city centre would require.” The train is extremely dear to them. Its somewhere entirely personal, with everything they need on board. Everybody knows exactly what it implies to them.Penny Junor, Royal biographer C ommentators think it will have been explained to Government ministers that the Royal household did not wish to see the train go the same way as the Royal Yacht.Penny Junor, Prince Charles and Prince Harry’s biographer, stated:”The train is really dear to them. It’s fine for them to travel on public transport, but on the Royal Train they

can sleep and, as the Royal Luxury yacht was, its someplace completely private, with whatever they need on board.”Everybody knows exactly what it means to them. Yes, there’s an expense connected to it, but

there’s an expense connected to having a Monarchy and it is exactly what we desire as a nation.” Although the future of the train appears to have been ensured there are doubts over its future home.When not in service the train’s 9 British Rail Mark 3 carriages, couchette and dining vehicle -with their Royal Claret livery and dedicated series numbers starting 2900 -are presently kept and kept in excellent order at an ancient Victorian railway depot in Buckinghamshire. The Queen and Prince Philip leave Manchester by train, 24th May 1961 Credit: Getty Images owever, there are now prepares for a comprehensive redevelopment of the 37 acre Wolverton Functions site, north of Milton Keynes, into stores, apartments and retail facilities, raising questions over where the train will be kept in future.It is understood the Palace is insisting the train should continue to be maintaineded at a safe and safe and secure site from where it will continue to have

fast and simple access to the national rail network when needed to transfer members of the RoyalFamily direct to

city centre locations. Discussions are presently underway between Buckingham Palace, Network Rail -who have main obligation for the train -and St Modwen, the designers behind the ambitious redevelopment plans.There is speculation that if a continued home for the train can not be supplied at Wolverton it will be moved to the Derby train coach and carriage works, presently run by the engineering company Bombardier. The Queen alights from the royal train at Liverpool Street Station, London with four of her family pet corgis on 8th February 1968 Credit: Keystone/Getty Images/Jim Gray T he Royal Train cost ₤ 800,000 in running and upkeep in 2015, down from ₤ 900,000 the previous year.

It makes between around 15 trips annually at an estimated ₤ 52 per mile, compared with ₤ 12 per mile by air.There was criticism after it was exposed a one-way journey in between Windsor and York made by the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh

in 2012 cost ₤ 20,221. As a result, the Queen has actually significantly taken a trip on public trains in current years to save money.The newest royal account showthat in 2015-2016 13 journeys were made by members of the Royal household-7 by the Prince

of Wales, five by the Queen and one by the Duke of Edinburgh alone, at an overall expense of almost ₤ 250,000, including a trip by Prince Charles from Ayr to Yorkshire and back to Aberdeen, costing ₤ 33,249. It was last used by a Royal on January 24 and 25 to transfer the Prince of Wales from Edinburgh to leicester and on to Loughborough for a series of royal engagements, including a see to Mountsorrel Train and Rothley Neighborhood Heritage Centre, before being gone back to Wolverton.In-between Royal check outs, the train is kept in engine sheds at Wolverton

run by the German engineering company Knorr Bremse, where it is kept in working order by another German firm, DB Schenker.None of the parties associated with the discussions had the ability to verify last night what will take place to the Royal Train as soon as work starts on changing the Wolverton Works.A representative for St Modwen stated:”We are completely aware of the present dedications in location

worrying the Royal Train and all associated celebrations are in conversations on the topic.”

Source

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/02/18/royal-train-saved-scrapheap-queen-makes-known-still-favoured/

from http://taxi.nearme.host/royal-train-conserved-from-the-scrapheap-after-queen-makes-it-known-it-is-still-her-favoured-mode-of-transport/

from NOVACAB - Blog http://novacabtaxi.weebly.com/blog/royal-train-conserved-from-the-scrapheap-after-queen-makes-it-known-it-is-still-her-favoured-mode-of-transport

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Royal Train conserved from the scrapheap after Queen makes it known it is still her favoured mode of transport

ince the reign of Queen Victoria its well upholstered carriages and reliable engines have transported members of the Royal Household the length and breadth of the country.However, the expense of running the Royal Train led to questions from MPs over its continuing usage and it was exposed in 2013 that it would soon need to be scrapped.But The Telegraph can now expose that the Royal Train is to continue into the foreseeable future.The Queen is understood to have made it recognized that the train is her preferred

mode of transport, and that she believes it to be a cost-efficient and practical method for the royal household to travel.Tests were then performed on the carriages, which revealed the train’s demise had actually been considerably exaggerated.

The Queen with Prince Andrew( right)and Prince Edward(

centre)in a compartment of the Royal Train before departure from London in December 1965 Credit: Popperfoto/Getty Images I nstead of being ready for the scrapyard, Palace sources stated the Royal Train was discovered to be

in far better condition than formerly thought. The source added there was now”no end in sight”to its use.There were doubts over the train’s future when Sir Alan Reid, the Keeper of the Privy Bag, told a committee of

MPs four years ago that the present rolling stock, mainly dating from the 1970s, had only five to 10 years of service life left.After that, he stated, the prospect of changing it would be a “major choice”, including:” The figures are quite

incredible. “However with memories still fresh of the fate of the Royal Private Yacht Britannia-which was retired in 1997 to the Queen’s tearful distress-further tests were brought out on the train’s rolling stock. The Royal Train at Wolverton Works, near Milton Keynes Credit: Phil Marsh s a result

it was found that its life might be extended by many years which with further efficiency savings the

train’s running costs could be reduced.A Palace source stated:”Sir Alan Reid reported to Parliament a couple of years ago that the train may have to be decommissioned soon. Because then tests have revealed it has more life in it than formerly believed. “There’s no end in sight to its usage and no repaired, concurred horizon in regards to when it will end up being unusable or be decommissioned. For the Queen and members of the Royal Household it is a practical and

expense effective method of travelling, enabling them to stay the night close to the area of an engagement the following day– however without triggering the interruption or security expenses that, say, a hotel in a city centre would require.” The train is extremely dear to them. Its somewhere entirely personal, with everything they need on board. Everybody knows exactly what it implies to them.Penny Junor, Royal biographer C ommentators think it will have been explained to Government ministers that the Royal household did not wish to see the train go the same way as the Royal Yacht.Penny Junor, Prince Charles and Prince Harry’s biographer, stated:”The train is really dear to them. It’s fine for them to travel on public transport, but on the Royal Train they

can sleep and, as the Royal Luxury yacht was, its someplace completely private, with whatever they need on board.”Everybody knows exactly what it means to them. Yes, there’s an expense connected to it, but

there’s an expense connected to having a Monarchy and it is exactly what we desire as a nation.” Although the future of the train appears to have been ensured there are doubts over its future home.When not in service the train’s 9 British Rail Mark 3 carriages, couchette and dining vehicle -with their Royal Claret livery and dedicated series numbers starting 2900 -are presently kept and kept in excellent order at an ancient Victorian railway depot in Buckinghamshire. The Queen and Prince Philip leave Manchester by train, 24th May 1961 Credit: Getty Images owever, there are now prepares for a comprehensive redevelopment of the 37 acre Wolverton Functions site, north of Milton Keynes, into stores, apartments and retail facilities, raising questions over where the train will be kept in future.It is understood the Palace is insisting the train should continue to be maintaineded at a safe and safe and secure site from where it will continue to have

fast and simple access to the national rail network when needed to transfer members of the RoyalFamily direct to

city centre locations. Discussions are presently underway between Buckingham Palace, Network Rail -who have main obligation for the train -and St Modwen, the designers behind the ambitious redevelopment plans.There is speculation that if a continued home for the train can not be supplied at Wolverton it will be moved to the Derby train coach and carriage works, presently run by the engineering company Bombardier. The Queen alights from the royal train at Liverpool Street Station, London with four of her family pet corgis on 8th February 1968 Credit: Keystone/Getty Images/Jim Gray T he Royal Train cost ₤ 800,000 in running and upkeep in 2015, down from ₤ 900,000 the previous year.

It makes between around 15 trips annually at an estimated ₤ 52 per mile, compared with ₤ 12 per mile by air.There was criticism after it was exposed a one-way journey in between Windsor and York made by the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh

in 2012 cost ₤ 20,221. As a result, the Queen has actually significantly taken a trip on public trains in current years to save money.The newest royal account showthat in 2015-2016 13 journeys were made by members of the Royal household-7 by the Prince

of Wales, five by the Queen and one by the Duke of Edinburgh alone, at an overall expense of almost ₤ 250,000, including a trip by Prince Charles from Ayr to Yorkshire and back to Aberdeen, costing ₤ 33,249. It was last used by a Royal on January 24 and 25 to transfer the Prince of Wales from Edinburgh to leicester and on to Loughborough for a series of royal engagements, including a see to Mountsorrel Train and Rothley Neighborhood Heritage Centre, before being gone back to Wolverton.In-between Royal check outs, the train is kept in engine sheds at Wolverton

run by the German engineering company Knorr Bremse, where it is kept in working order by another German firm, DB Schenker.None of the parties associated with the discussions had the ability to verify last night what will take place to the Royal Train as soon as work starts on changing the Wolverton Works.A representative for St Modwen stated:”We are completely aware of the present dedications in location

worrying the Royal Train and all associated celebrations are in conversations on the topic.”

Source

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/02/18/royal-train-saved-scrapheap-queen-makes-known-still-favoured/

from TAXI NEAR ME http://taxi.nearme.host/royal-train-conserved-from-the-scrapheap-after-queen-makes-it-known-it-is-still-her-favoured-mode-of-transport/

[skerbango-blog]

The Pub Crawl-by Ritty

“There are Republicans here. Old ones. IRA. But you’re safe with us,” the man whispered in a thick Irish accent I strained to hear over the folk band playing a jig on the stage in back of the pub. His black derby hat tipped low. Eyes glassy.

The conversation and the long night that ensued felt in total contrast to the serene calm of the larnrod Eireann train car that careened through the verdant Irish countryside as I reminisced and my wife napped on my arm. A light mist hung over the rolling hills while sheep ran through fields in the foreground of picturesque farm cottages. Much needed respite after criss-crossing rainy Dublin on a marathon pub crawl the day before.

We began with a long walk across the River Liffey for Irish coffee and stew beneath Victorian chandeliers at Lotts Café Bar, then followed the water to Capel Street – an eclectic mix of shops and eateries – for a Guinness at The Boar’s Head, then back to the Shelbourne Hotel for upscale cocktails and conversations with bespoke patrons at the No. 27 Bar & Lounge. Then Kehoe’s and McDaids, Sheehans and The Long Hall, and probably a few more before cashing in on a tip to eat cheap late-night Italian at Pacino’s where The Blind Pig Speakeasy lay in hiding in the basement near the bathrooms. Pressing a discreet metal plate opened a trapdoor leading to a small bar formed by a stone-lined tunnel where an Italian kid made passable classic cocktails.

We returned to the street around midnight where the crush of tourists and daily life had reduced to a dwindle save one lively pub where the darkened entrance could not contain the traditional music and dancing that emanated onto the street as an invitation. I questioned whether to choose spontaneity over my meticulously planned Google map that was befitted with dozens of gold stars marking places thoroughly researched weeks prior to our arrival. But my wife darted straight for the door unnoted on my map and seemingly out of the past as if in a scene from Woody Allen’s Midnight in Paris…except with James Joyce playing Hemingway’s pal.

Inside, people danced in circles and shouted every word of the tune belted out by a geriatric band. The men wore three-piece suits and the women donned their Sunday best, though it was only Thursday. My slow Southern drawl while ordering a Jameson neat plus a gin and diet tonic alerted a man about my age who looked like an extra in Peaky Blinders –pinstripe suit, tie knot unloosened, hard drinking girl on his arm.

“Where ya from?”

“Texas.”

“Texas! Amazing!” he said with a genuine bit of enthusiasm. “On holiday?”

“Honeymoon, actually.”

“Honeymoon!” more enthusiasm. “Ailbe! Come over and meet my American friends on their honeymoon!”

Within a minute we were surrounded by prideful Irishmen who wanted every detail of our itinerary. The owner introduced himself and welcomed us. The whole group had been to the horse races earlier in the day and also celebrated the owner’s son who had just accepted a job in Manhattan.

During our entire stay, the States seemed on the tip of everyone’s tongue. Gameshow quizzes and roundtable discussions regarding Shad Khan’s plans for the Super Bowl at Wembley, American music on the radio, cab drivers with longwinded stories about Chicago, and everyone in between with a kid or cousin living in New York or Boston or California. Trump came up once, inevitably, although in an unusual location. After taking a ferry to Inisheer - one of the Aran Islands off Galway Bay - a border collie shepherded us to a quaint home owned by a woman named Anne whose fisherman husband caught the day’s specials that were advertised via a small chalkboard on the porch. With only three tables inside and safe from the cold Atlantic wind, we were soon joined by a talkative woman from Dublin who had the most fascinating Transatlantic accent.

“Oh, you Americans and your Donald Trump,” she said while stirring a bowl of lentil and potato soup. “I’m just happy he hasn’t banned me from visiting your beautiful country yet, or else how would I see my children in New York? Yes, New York, cliché for an Irish,” she said among several other clichés and retread fallacies regarding the President. As with the gigantic contrast in scenery, her politics were polar opposite of the derby donning Republican.

“Now you listen to me,” he told me with teeth clinched and an accent thickened with rage, “Oi’ll strangle a motherfucker ‘dat wut kill a baby in ‘da womb.” Ireland has an upcoming abortion referendum set for vote on May 25th. Political posters, equally pro and con, hung from every streetlight in every town, but it was clear which way this pub swayed, reinforced by whispers of the IRA. I had not volunteered for this political pub talk but I listened out of respect and contributed in a neutral fashion. “The part of the States where I’m from,” I told him, “you would probably fit right in.”

Booze has a universal quality in that it can stretch any tale too tall. This needs no translation or applied cultural relevance. But when the band played their finale – the Irish national anthem called A Soldier’s Song – everyone stood at attention, my wife and I included, and produced a fiery rendition. The pub crawl ended with a slow Guinness. We shook hands and hugged our Irish hosts and returned back into the late night for a quiet stroll home. But as our train pulled into Galway Station the next day, I still felt the intensity of their lyrics and the volume of the voices as they sang every word of every song. And for that reason, I think I will keep this pub mine. Just in case.