By The River

The hotel we're staying at in Richmond is small but is situated right by the river and lays out a fine continental breakfast.

After picking up our return train ticket from the station we decided to go to the National Trust pile called Ham House.  Again right by the river about a mile and a half from Richmond so it was a nice walk along the Thames walk/cycle track, on the way home, going we went by bus.

The house and gardens are very impressive,  build in the 16/17th century to house a favourite of Charles the First, William Murray, no relation as our guide pointed out.

After walking back we holed up in a cafe by Richmond Green for a cup of tea/coffee then sat by the river people watching, which seems to be the main pastime in this corner of the country. The photo is taken from Richmond Hill looking down on the Thames, based on a famous Turner painting, The View from Richmond Hill.

Tea out with Emma and Andy this evening.