Dave’s travelogue

Sheep in the paddock uploaded on 19 April 2008

If you prefer to avoid the hustle and crowds of the big cities and are interested in the history of England, there’s no better way to see it than to visit the Cotswolds. What’s a Costwold you ask? Well, technically speaking, it’s a combination of Anglo Saxon words meaning ‘cot’ or sheep enclosure and ‘wold’ or rolling hillside but if you ask anyone who lives in the villages that make up the Cotswold area, they’ll tell you it’s much more than that.

World of Mechanical Music Museum uploaded on 19 April 2008

Located across the street from the market square and is a true delight to visit. There is a fascinating gift shop with lots of distractions but once you get to the museum, there is a guided tour by a very knowledgeable and personable gentleman that really makes the history of the machines come alive. Everything from the smallest music boxes to mammoth machines with numerous instruments are represented and some of the mechanical pianos have recordings done by virtuoso artists long deceased that truly sound exactly as if they were performing for you live.

Downtown Northleach uploaded on 19 April 2008

Northleach is as nearly central as you can get in the Cotswolds and is at a very important crossroad for navigation which may be why it was once home to wealthy wool merchants. It’s easy to head any direction from there and has all the amenities you’ll need for a comfortable stay.

Roman Baths uploaded on 19 April 2008

42 miles from Northleach is Bath, where the roman ruins still reflect the splendor of ancient Rome.

Tomb of Shakespeare uploaded on 19 April 2008

Holy Trinity Chruch in Stratford-upon-Avon where Shakespeare is buried. Shakespeare's tomb lies in the chancel, a privilege bestowed upon him when he became a lay rector in 1605. Alongside his grave are those of his widow, Anne, and other members of his family.

Church of St. Peter and St. Paul uploaded on 19 April 2008

Stained glass window behind the alter in the Church of St. Peter and St. Paul in Northleach.

Church of St. Peter and St. Paul uploaded on 19 April 2008

Northleach is home to the magnificent Church of St. Peter and St. Paul currently undergoing renovation.

Northleach uploaded on 19 April 2008

Cotteswold House in Northleach, a charming B&B operated by the equally charming Margaret & David Atkinson.

International Jazz Festival in Cape Town, South Africa uploaded on 18 April 2008