Jim's Holidays: October 2021

Debbie and I decide on a few days away to celebrate our 15th wedding anniversary and she finds a very nice chalet right next to the river a few miles down from Oxford. Tuesday is the usual hassle getting out of London but not too bad and a good run cross country to Henley where we stop off to wander along the river to the bridge which was very pleasant in the sunshine. Then for the rest of the journey to our home which is in the grounds of a bigger newish house owned by the very pleasant and friendly Sarah. After settling us into the chalet she leaves us alone for the rest of the time so not overbearing. Our place has a lovely view of the river and after a couple of gins I pluck up the courage to go for a swim which was very pleasant. We sit on our bench right next to the rive under the willow mesmerised by the gorgeous sunset as the orb disappears from the flat horizon. A great place to see a sunset. The place is spotless and the bed comfortable so we sleep well. Wednesday we wander into Dorchester which is a quaint little town (or large village) with a big abbey church. Was a cathedral then abbey then church lowering in status as Dorchester did over the years. We walk through the fields to Days Lock which is operated by modern machinery including big sluice gates and not as picturesque as some but we while away an hour lounging on the river bank under wild blackberry and apple trees getting strength back for the walk home. The place is not very busy and we lower the average age by at least two decades, which is saying something! Nevertheless nice old buildings, 3 pubs and a Coop which is the main requirement of a country town or village. We spend the rest of the afternoon and evening lounging by the river and eating and drinking. The sunset isn't quite as spectacular as fewer clouds but after it's disappeared seems to have a last hurrah by lighting up the sky seemingly above it. Thursday is our last full day and the weather's not as glorious. We drive to near the Wittenham Clumps and walk up to the iron age fort for great views over the surrounding countryside then over to the Clump proper to spot our little place over the plain. I assume it all used to flood round here years ago - maybe still does? The weather's brightened up and we stop off to get a take away from what we've been told is the best curry house this side of the Khyber Pass (it was good but not that good) and stop off at the 12th Century Barley Mow pub for a swift one before returning home. I go for another swim before champagne and curry to celebrate 15 years of married bliss. Unfortunately by 8 I feel shattered and go to bed sleeping for 12 hours solid. Feel pretty rough the next day and I think I've caught a waterborne disease whilst swimming (aka sewage or pesticide run off). At least it was on the last night. We pack up and drive back to London having had a very enjoyable few days away. A lovely place to stay if you just want to chill out.