Oxford and the Cotswolds

Today was an early morning.  We went on a tour of Oxford and the Cotswolds with London Walks.  This was one of their "day trips" from London, and in keeping with their usual professionalism despite a casual arrangement where you just turn up at the appointed time and place.  In this case, 9:15am at Paddington Station.

We caught the train to Oxford, then a bus to the Cotswolds.  We walked in a village called Minster Lovell with the usual gorgeous Cotswold stone cottages and thatched roofs. Summer is even better to see these cottages.

Then a walk beyond the village.

Then to lunch in another village, Burford.  Saw a shop there stocking these brands!

Then to Oxford.  On the way, passed some typical Cotswolds vistas - a bit hard from the bus, but you get some idea.

Then to Oxford.  Began to take photos.  This is the Sheldonian, designed by the up and coming Christopher Wren

 

Then Divinity College/Bodleian Library

Brasenose College.

And a bridge over a street reminiscent of the Bridge of Sighs in Venice.

After a while, I just gave up taking photos.  There are just so many ancient and beautiful buildings wherever you look.  A city of dreaming spires indeed.  It was the beginning of summer holidays, and something else happening - there were graduates and undergraduates in gowns.

Then we found Chinatown for dinner.  Roast pork, roast duck and buk choy with garlic.  Not brilliant chinese food, but a very welcome change of flavour.

As for tomorrow -  sleep in and SHOPPING !!!