KEZ-ick

This past weekend was the stage for our first TRUE trip outside of Hull. Being Valentines Day weekend, I decided that it would be best to surprise Steph with a trip to Keswick, a small town of about 5,000 in the heart of the Lake Region of England. What a good boyfriend right? But anyways, the trip was loads of fun and I think Steph really had a good time.

Leaving on Saturday, trains were over-crowded and we were often left standing with our luggage due to our lack of seat reservations. Numerous transfers and surprisingly smooth connections allowed us to arrive in Keswick on time. We checked into our beautiful bed and breakfast and explored the town. After grabbing a quick scone and muffin we set off on a 7 mile walk to the Castlerigg stone circle (see Flickr and YouTube). The second most famous stone circle in England, behind Stonehedge, Castlerigg provided a beautiful site as the sun set over the surrounding mountains. Steph's fears quickly set in and required us to head back home before night fell.

Dinner was at a delicious and over-priced Italian restaurant. Has anyone ever had sticky toffee pudding? I tried it there for dessert and instantly became addicted (I got it again the following night). Not sure if it is a universal dessert though. Anyways, we then went to see Up in the Air at the local theater before crashing into bed.

The next morning we woke up early for breakfast and to start a hike. Despite our lack of hiking gear (Vans and jeans), which would seem odd in a town full of hiking shops, we set off on a lofty trek up the Cat Bells mountain ridge. The trail was steep and long, but easily doable without the bells and whistles of the true nature-lovers. This didn't eliminate the confused looks received by fellow hikers though. The weather was constantly battling our views, with the fog receding for 15 minutes before quickly returning. The hike was long and tiring, but well worth the sights. An absolute must for any hikers. It also helped having numerous dogs joyfully sprinting up the trail every 5 minutes.

We skipped lunch in lieu of a nap before heading to a nice valentines day meal. After enjoying a second serving of toffee pudding, we went to the Theater by the Lake to watch a play titled the Hot Dots. Impressive, but not spectacular. Definitely worth the free admission though.

Unfortunately the next morning meant it was time to head home from our 2-day paradise. The trains home were reminiscent of American flights; mislabeled, over-crowded, and delayed. After a weekend in the mountainous resort of Keswick, however, it didn't seem to matter. And in hindsight, these simple complications pale in comparison to Becky's Olympic trip thus far. We both feel bad that we took all of the traveling luck.

Its hard not to be lucky, though, when visiting a town like Keswick. If you can remember anything I said about York, amplify it twofold for Keswick. This town is quite possibly the favorite place I have ever been. It has a cute city, endless nature, and a beautiful lake with countless ducks! Something tells me this wasn't the last time we would visit Keswick. Next time we'll have to take Mia, Kia, Linus, and Allie (ie or y?) seeing as how this is an English mecca for dog-toting families.