United Kingdom – Page 2 – Snapping The Globe

Awesome Akbar’s

Years ago, traveling to Manchester, England was a pretty regular occurrence. It wasn’t until much later, after we temporarily discontinued service, that I found out Manchester was known for some pretty fabulous Indian food and I had missed the boat.

My return to Manchester was much anticipated, especially having an extra day there to do some sightseeing. However, as much as I love my picture-taking and sightseeing, the thing I was looking forward to was getting to sample the Indian cuisine.

After braving the windy, rainy afternoon, I returned to the hotel to mourn the loss of my umbrella, dry off, freshen up and meet my crew for dinner.

Shortly after our arranged meeting, a brief discussion ensued as to which Indian restaurant we were going to dine. A place called Akbar’s won the debate!

Located a few blocks away, we arrived to an extremely crowded bar area overshadowed by a large Buddha statue.

The wait was going to be about an hour, but, hey, did I mention there was a bar? After spending time in London and experiencing the agony of parting with too many pound notes just to quench your thirst, the best part about this bar was that drinks were quite cheap! Bottles of Indian beer and healthy pours of wine were only 3 pounds.

Patrons continued to stream into the place, striving to find any niche, cubbyhole or square foot of floor space to wedge themselves into while waiting for their table. Soon, our table for eight was ready and we were ushered into the crowded and noisy dining room and seated at a long rectangular table. Our waiter soon appeared and recorded our orders, one by one.

One of my favorite entrees has always been Chicken Tikka Masala, however, lately, my taste has turned to Butter Chicken. Not seeing it on the menu, I inquired as to whether or not I was missing it. My waiter said, “no”, however, he would ask the chef to prepare it especially for me. The same thing happened when we asked for Cheese Naan. Needless to say, I was very impressed!

No long after our orders were taken, our waiter brought our naan to the table…one garlic and and one cheese. The restaurant has these metal “trees” that the huge naan hangs from. And it was huge! We all began tearing the delicious naan apart and soon after, our entrees were delivered.

My Butter Chicken…oh, what can I say? Mmmmm! I have never had Butter Chicken or any Indian food, for that matter, that tasted so delicious! I am not sure that I uttered any words, besides, “you all have to try this” because I was so busy stuffing my face. I did try some of my fellow diner’s dishes; Seafood Balti, Chicken Tikka Masala and the Chicken Tikka Makhani, the latter of which I have to say was a close second to my Butter Chicken. It was very apparent why this was an award winning restaurant.

Soon, our dining experience was complete, but I made sure to leave with a copy of their menu and the knowledge that I have truly tasted some of the best Indian food in the city (actually many cities)…and if you don’t want to leave the comfort of your hotel room…they deliver!

Akbar’s

http://akbars.co.uk
73-83 Liverpool Road, Manchester, M3 4NQ
Phone: 0161 834 8444
Asian Curry Award 2015, English Curry Award 2014
Best of Manchester and Restaurant of the Year
Other locations: Bradford, Leeds, Eastgate, York, Sheffield, Bradford Cafe de Akbar, Middlesbrough, Birmingham, Newcastle, Glasgow

A Canterbury Tale

“Who will rid me of this troublesome priest?”-King Henry II

Archbishop Thomas Beckett engaged in conflict with King Henry II over the rights and privileges of the church. In 1170, four knights set off for Canterbury on the orders of the King and murdered Archbishop Thomas Beckett in his cathedral. The murder was extremely violent. Two years later, the archbishop was canonized by Pope Alexander III on February 21, 1173 after a series of miracles, depicted in the miracle windows of the Trinity Chapel, were attached to his martyrdom. Soon after, pilgrims by the thousands, as told in Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales, began to flock to the Cathedral to worship at Becket’s tomb, among them, Henry, clothed in sackcloth and barefoot.

Today, the Cathedral is one of the most visited in the country. Visitors come to experience the Cathedral which is set within its own walled Precincts. Surrounded by medieval buildings and ruins, there is much to experience. St. Martin’s Church, the building in which St. Augustine, the first Archbishop of Canterbury and his followers first worshipped, is the oldest working church in England. Together with Canterbury Cathedral, and St. Augustine’s Abbey, where his monks lived and worshipped and where Kentish Kings and the first Archbishops were buried, they make up one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites.

Located right in the middle of the city center, visitors can access the Cathedral through the Christ Church Gate.

The church and Cathedral have stood on the site for over 1,400 years and boasts some of the finest church architecture in the country. Built from stone imported from Normandy, it houses the 17^th century bell which is still rung every day to open and close the Cathedral. A large display of stained glass windows, some surviving from the 12^th and 13^th centuries can be seen in the Cathedral, especially in the Trinity Chapel, which was built specifically for the Shrine of St. Thomas.

Time should also be allotted to explore the massive crypt beneath the east end of the Cathedral. Built under Archbishop Anselm in the early 1100’s, it still contains extensive Romanesque murals and exquisitely carved columns and capitals. One of the things that stood out was the sculpture by Antony Gormley. Suspended over the site of Thomas Becket’s vestry place in the Eastern Crypt of the Cathedral, it immediately caught our attention upon entering. Speaking with one of the Cathedral’s guides, who noticed our interest, he informed us that the sculpture, entitled Transport, was created using antique nails taken from the roof from the Cathedral’s repaired south east transept roof. A notable fact…due to the magnetization of the nails, the sculpture always points north-south.

The oldest son of King Edward III, Edward, was a brave leader in the wars against France. Called the Black Prince by the French, as they feared his bravery, he asked to be buried in the Crypt, but it was decided that he was too important and his tomb was placed close to Thomas’ shrine. His tomb consists of a bronze effigy beneath a tester depicting the Holy Trinity. The only English monarch to be buried at Canterbury, lies opposite the Black Prince; King Henry IV and his Queen, Joan of Navarre.

Much time should be allowed to explore the Cathedral in full. An audio guide can be rented, in seven languages, from the kiosk in the Nave or a guided tour can be joined at various times of the day, where expert guides can not only inform you of the Cathedral’s history, but answer your questions. The main tour lasts 40 minutes with an optional section lasting another 20 minutes which covers the Great Cloister and Chapter House.

After exploration of the Cathedral is complete, time can be spent roaming the pedestrian friendly streets in the city of Canterbury and its many shops and restaurants.

Getting There

Car-Several car parks are located in the center of Canterbury and a park and ride system operating with buses running every 7- 8 minutes from designated areas on the outskirts of the city right into the city center. For more information, visit http://www.canterbury.co.uk
Train-Southeastern High Speed rail service from London St. Pancras to Canterbury West station. Journey time, under one hour. For information, visit http://www.southeasternrailway.co.uk
Southeastern also runs regular train service from London Victoria and London Charing Cross to Canterbury East station and Canterbury West station. The Cathedral is a short walk into the city from either station. For information, visit http://www.nationalrail.co.uk
Bus-National Express offers regular bus service from London Victoria Coach Station. For timetables, visit http://nationalexpress.com
Canterbury Cathedral is also offered as part of many organized tours in the area

Hours of Operation

Summer-0900-1730
Winter- 0900-1700
The Crypt- 1000-1730 (Summer), 1000-1700 (Winter)
Sundays-1230-1430

Admission

Adults-£10.50
Concessions-£9.50
Children under 18 years to 5 years-£9.00
Children under 5-free
Family ticket (2 adults and 3 children)- £28.50
Family ticket (1 adult and 2 children)- £20.50

Guided tours

Weekdays, Monday-Friday, 1030 (except January), 1200, 1400 (1430 Summer)
Saturday-1030 (except January), 1200, 1300
Guide ticket, £5.00pp or £10.00 for family
Audio tour available-£4.00

See more pictures of Canterbury Cathedral on Facebook, Snapping the Globe and Instagram, Snapping the Globe.

White Cliffs of Dover

The 1942 song by Vera Lynn begins…

There’ll be bluebirds over
The white cliffs of Dover
Tomorrow
Just you wait and see

The chalk white cliffs facing the Straight of Dover and France were the subject of the popular World War II tune. Although it was written before America had joined the war, it was penned to lift the spirits of the Allies at a time when Nazi Germany had conquered much of Europe and were bombing England.

Looking forward to visiting the White Cliffs of Dover, I had imagined what I would observe would be stark white cliffs falling away to the water. This is what one sees in pictures, after all. English weather, however, was not cooperating on the day that we were touring this part of Britain. The misty, rainy day did not assist in observing the natural beauty as when wet, the cliffs become much darker.

Our first glimpses of the Cliffs were from the Battle of Britain Memorial. Walking to the edge of the cliffs looking out over the Straights of Dover, it was as beautiful as it could have been considering the poor weather. And we could, however, vaguely make out the French coastline in the distance. After spending some time at the brink of the precipice, it was time to acknowledge the Memorial.

The Battle of Britain Memorial (BOB Memorial) at Capel-le-Ferne, was also worthy of our short visit. This site is dedicated to Churchill’s famous “Few” who fought in the skies overhead to keep this country free from invasion.

The site hosts the Christopher Foxley-Norris Memorial Wall which lists the names of all those who took park in the Battle of Britain as well as replica aircraft, which stand nearby as a reminder of their victory.

Leaving the BOB Memorial, we headed to the town of Dover which is a major port for ferries traveling to Calais, France. Overlooked by the medieval Dover Castle which was built to repel invasions from across the English Channel, the town has a welcoming beachfront from which the Pharos lighthouse can be seen as well as the Cliffs.

Again, the poor conditions did nothing to allow proper viewing. Protecting cameras from the rain, we did out best to capture the beauty that we knew existed on this waterfront area. Soon it was time to head on…but, maybe the weather will be better tomorrow…just you wait and see.

I’ll never forget the people I met
braving those angry sky’s
I remember well as the shadows fell
the light of hope in their eyes
and though I’m far away

I still can hear them say
Sun’s up
for when the dawn comes up

There’ll be bluebirds over
The white cliffs of Dover,
Tomorrow, just you wait and see.

There’ll be love and laughter
And peace ever after.
Tomorrow, when the world is free

The shepherd will tend his sheep.
The valley will bloom again.
And Jimmy will go to sleep
In his own little room again.

There’ll be bluebirds over
The white cliffs of Dover,
Tomorrow, just you wait and see.

Written in 1941 by Walter Kent with lyrics by Nat Burton.

For more pictures, check out my Facebook page, Snapping the Globe and Instagram, Snapping the Globe.

For more information on The White Cliffs of Dover: http://www.visitkent.co.uk/attractions/the-white-cliffs-of-dover/9002

Tour Providers Offering Service to The White Cliffs of Dover

Evan Evans, http://www.evanevanstours.com
Golden Tours, http://www.goldentours.com
Viator Tours, http://www.viator.com
Premium Tours, http://www.premiumtours.co.uk/
Grayline Tours, http://www.grayline.com

For more information on The Battle of Britain Memorial: http://www.battleofbritainmemorial.org/the-memorial/

Opening Hours and Admission

March 1-May 31, 10:00am-5:00pm
June 1-September 30, 10:00am-6:00pm
October 1-February 28, 10:00-4:00pm
Admission-Free

Lead Me to Leeds!

Set on two islands within the River Len and surrounded by a moat, Leeds Castle is a spectacle to behold.

Described at the “loveliest castle in the world” by Lord Conway, a trip to Kent is not complete without a visit to this historical castle which has served multiple purposes; a Norman stronghold, the property of six medieval queens, a palace used by Henry VIII and his first wife, Catherine of Aragon, a Jacobean country house, a Georgian mansion and an elegant early 20th century retreat for the influential and famous. Today, it has become one of the most visited historic buildings in England.

Reading the history behind this castle before visiting, what I personally found most interesting was that the castle was transformed from fortified stronghold to magnificent royal palace for the use of King Henry VIII and his first wife, Catherine of Aragon. After visiting, what I personally found most interesting was its connection to Virginia, where I live.

After entering the castle and admiring the family portraits, I noticed one of the portraits of Lord Fairfax. Since my son attends George Mason university in Fairfax, the name caught my eye and I photographed the portrait to show my son. One of the attendants in the room caught my attention and engaged me in conversation. After telling him about my son and that I lived south of Fairfax in Richmond, Virginia, he took me over to a map and explained how the castle had been the property of both Sir Thomas Culpeper and Sir Cheney Culpeper. Recognizing the Culpeper name (Culpeper, Virginia is 78 miles from where I live), I was enthralled by the history lesson that he began to give me.

Thomas, Second Lord Culpeper, suceeded his father in the title and later purchased Leeds Castle from the creditors of Sir Cheney’s estate. In 1680, Lord Culpeper was Appointed Governor of Virginia. His daughter, Catherine, married Thomas, Fifth Lord Fairfax in 1690. On the death of Lady Culpeper in 1710, the castle was passed to the Fairfax family.

Over the next 50 years, ownership of the castle was never secure and continually challenged. The Sixth Lord Fairfax finally achieved confirmation of the family’s sole rights in 1745. He sailed for Virginia and Leed’s Castle was given to his brother Robert Fairfax.

Fairfax settled on the banks of the Potomac at Belvoir and became the friend and patron of a young George Washington. Later, moving to the frontier, he assigned himself 150,000 acres which he called “The Manor of Leeds.”

Walking along the drive in front of the castle, I had noticed a sundial. The attendant, asked if I had noticed it on my walk to the entrance. Having glanced in its direction, I had not, however, stopped to inspect it more closely. He suggested that on my exit, I take a look, although the cloudy day would not lend itself to seeing its operation. Much to my astonishment, the sundial is set to Virginia time. He also informed me that there was a rumored sundial in Virginia at one time that was set to Leed’s Castle time.

Taking a quick walk on the premises, I realized that there were many other activities and attractions available. Being that I was on an organized tour, however, I was unable to see much of the grounds. If time is available, one should see and experience the Maze, along with its underground grotto as well as the Falconry.

An exhibition within the ancient Gatehouse details the fascinating journey through 900 years of the Castle’s history. The story is recreated through original artifacts, expert historical detail, illustration and film. Additionally, a Dog Collar museum is available near the Fairfax restaurant. It contains a unique collection of over 130 rare and valuable collars dating from the 15th century.

For nicer days, Punting on the Moat is available from April to October, weather permitting. The Wood Garden, the Culpeper Garden and the Lady Baillie Mediterranean Garden Terrace are also available for a nice walk.

Younger visitors can check out the Knights’ Realm Playground and the Squires’ Courtyard Playground.

There are many food venues on the Castle premises serving casual dining, coffee, afternoon tea and elegant evening dining.

Check out more pictures on my Facebook page, Snapping the Globe.

For more information on Leeds Castle: http://www.leeds-castle.com

Tour Providers Offering Service to Leeds Castle

Evan Evans, http://www.evanevanstours.com
Golden Tours, http://www.goldentours.com
Viator Tours, http://www.viator.com
Premium Tours, http://www.premiumtours.co.uk/
Grayline Tours, http://www.grayline.com

Opening Hours

April thru October, 10:30am-6:00pm, last admission 4:30pm
October thru March, 10:30am-5:00pm, last admission 3:00pm
Knights’ Realm Playground, April-September, 10:00am-5:00pm, October-March, 10:00am-4:00pm (closed in icy conditions)
Squires’ Courtyard Playground, April-September, 10:00am-5:00pm, October-March, 10:00am-4pm (closed in icy conditions)
Punting on the Moat, April-October, weather permitting

Ticket Prices

Adults, £24.00
Senior Citizens/Students & Visitors with Disabilities, £18.90
Children – 4 to 15 years (with online booking discount), £14.40
Infants-under 4 years, FREE

Winter Wonderland

Heading to London, for a four day trip is always exciting! There are so many things to see and do in London and in the surrounding areas.

After a little internet surfing, I soon discovered that the ultimate Christmas destination, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, had just opened.

Last year, I headed over to Hyde Park after a long day of touring Warwick Castle, Stratford Upon Avon, the Cotswolds and Oxford. Needless to say, I was exhausted, but the urge to experience this huge Christmas attraction, kept me going. However, after less than an hour of checking out the Christmas market, my sore feet decided to call it quits and I headed over to my favorite Indian restaurant for some much needed nourishment…and then to bed for some much needed sleep!

This year, I planned my first day around the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland. After doing some shopping on Kensington High Street, I continued my walk down to Hyde Park. What I first noticed was that although it was crowded for a Monday night, there was nowhere near the amount of people that I experienced last year on a Friday night. It was nice to be able to browse each booth for Christmas presents without the onslaught of people.

There was a wide assortment of gifts for purchase as well as many food venues. Deciding to have dinner here, I grabbed a beer, a bratwurst and chips and secured a seat in one of the heated seating areas in the Bavarian Village, listening to the live music being performed nearby.

Many attractions were available including the Magical Ice Kingdom, Bar Ice, Ski Zillertal Ice Rink, Santa Land and Circus Shows and could be booked by reservation. Although I walked throughout the entire venue and was tempted, I never did try out any of the rides, such as the Giant Wheel, deciding that it would have been much more fun to return and enjoy with some of my crew members.

But, after smelling the delicious aroma wafting from the Schmalzkuchen House, I finally decided to try some mini donuts, smothered in powder sugar for dessert!

After leaving Hyde Park and feeling extremely festive, I decided to take a detour so that I could walk near Harrods, which was lighted and decorated for the Christmas season. All in all, the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland was worth the visit. I boarded the metro, en route to my hotel, with some Christmas shopping completed and a joyous holiday spirit!

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

Open 10am to 10pm daily, until January 3. Closed Christmas Day.
Free Admission
Rides and attraction prices vary
Transportation to Hyde Park via Underground Stations Green Park (Victoria, Jubilee and Piccadilly lines)
Victoria (Victoria line and National Rail)
Paddington (Bakerloo, Metropolitan, Circle & District lines and National Rail)

Check out more pictures on my Facebook page, Snapping the Globe.