Tag: Scotland

The Beginning of our Travels

When I was asked if I’d like to go Wick on a train I couldn’t think of a reason to say no. A flurry of emails and WhatsApp messages ensued and the train and hotel were booked. At least a small forest of trees was consumed to print the numerous rail tickets, as we had to change trains several times and off we went.

Seventeen hours later we arrived in Wick – not that we could see a lot – it was 11pm and very dark! A taxi had been booked and a few minutes later we were dropped off at http://www.nethercliffehotel.co.uk/, checked in and 💤.

It was March and though the wind was bracing the next morning, it was bright and clear. We had a hearty breakfast and set off to explore, on our one day there, before catching the train very the next morning for the return journey to Norfolk. As someone from Scotrail said to us on the way, “All the way up to Wick for an overnight stay, one day and then another 17 hours home? Madness, utter madness. “

Our first visit on the ‘ list of things to see and do’ was the museum. From the displays in the window it looked very interesting. We couldn’t say anymore about it than that as it wasn’t open until Easter, which was another 2 weeks away! Note to selves – check opening times whilst doing research of list of things to do and see 👍🏻

We both enjoyed our to visit to https://www.oldpulteney.com Our guide was very well informed and though she must do it day in, day out, she made it feel freshly organised just for us. I particularly liked the warehouse and the barrels of whisky staked nine high – the aroma was heady, intoxicating and unforgettable! Then to the tasting – T doesn’t like whisky, but I do, so I drank mine and hers as well. It’s a tough job but I was more than happy to do it. Hic! I definitely like Old Pulteney whisky!

After the alcohol, some lunch was needed. We went to the Pulteney Centre http://www.pppwick.org.uk which, conveniently, was right next door. We were both impressed. It’s a light, airy modern building, housing a cafe/ restaurant which serves everything from sandwiches and cakes to hot meals, jacket potatoes and homemade soup. We both chose Leek and Potato soup which was served with a bread roll. It was delicious and very reasonably priced. It was busy and several people were also having lunch – mostly local but after all, what tourists would be in Wick, in March? 😳😳

We wandered back towards the hotel and spent ages looking for the smallest street in the U.K. Just before we found it, T was the recipient of the lucky droppings of an overhead seagull. She didn’t find it very amusing or lucky but I did. 😂

Back to the hotel, dinner and an early night as we had to catch the train at 6.18 am. T was worried about the time we would need to walk from the hotel to the station the next morning. So, to allay her fears, before dinner we did a trial run. It took 8 minutes – I figured we’d need to leave the hotel about 6 in the morning which would allow more than enough time. T didn’t think so, wanting to leave much earlier – after a bit of bargaining we agreed we would set off at 5.45. She was dressed, packed and ready to go before 5.30 am. We were at the station before 5.45. At least we were able to get on the train and wait for the train driver to arrive! We left at 6.18 on the dot and set off on our 17 hour return journey to Norfolk.

We both enjoyed Wick and it’s rugged charm, but more than that it’s sense of community and common identity. It’s definately worth a visit and we’d do it again but stay for a bit longer than one day between the two marathon train journeys!

Next time, we said, maybe we would actually get on the Coasthopper Bus and visit somewhere in North Norfolk!!