Bleak House
A phone call – “Would you like to come to a Pirate Wedding in Broadstairs ?”
After the usual stop start journey round the M25 and over the Queen Elizabeth II bridge, we arrived in Broadstairs at the Canterbury Bell where we checked in.
The Canterbury Bell
It was a lovely Summer evening – living in South Africa we do not get these long, balmy evenings where the sun is still warm and the world still beckons you outside – so we decided to go into Broadstairs as I had never been before and my friend was a ‘regular’.
I had to wonder at the steepness of this coastal town.
Broadstairs bay in the evening sunshine
I know of Broadstairs because of the Folk Week, but had never managed to get there despite its wonderful reputation.
Dickens Plaque
As we walked around, I was fascinated by the Charles Dickens connection. Like most of us, I had to read “Dickens” at school, and seeing some of the places come to life was very exciting.
He lived there sporadically from 1837 onwards and there are many plaques, places and reminders of his work.
Old Curiosity Sho
Since 1937 there has been a Dickens Festival in June, which would be well worth a visit.
After this lovely stroll, it was back to The Canterbury Bell.
The accommodation was nice enough – clean room and bathroom as usual, with a kettle and coffee, tea etc.
Bedroom in The Canterbury Bell
However, the breakfast was a little disappointing.
The Canterbury Bell wasn’t full, so I can’t say the staff were rushed off their feet, they just seemed to be going through the motions rather than engaged with the residents.
The toaster was only working one side, and, as each ‘table’ arrived it was discussed with the staff, but nothing done about it.
The coffee was good, and there was enough choice of food to satisfy most customers.
My fruit option was frozen summer fruit, and I knew it would be a bit soggy, so I mixed it with yogurt and that was better.
Sadly, my companion’s “full English” was not up to her standards.
However we smiled and had a good chat and giggle about it with our fellow diners – or should that be breakfasters ?
The Pirate Wedding was great fun, most had made an effort to dress up. It was wonderful to see friends I have known, but not seen very often, for 50 years !! The usual ‘back then’ and ‘what are you up to now ?” conversations which are always fun.
A late night – obviously !!
Because the room was comfortable we had a good night’s sleep.
After a similar breakfast experience, we checked out. Thank goodness their parking was close by.
Sunny Broadstairs Beach
It was a glorious sunny day and we walked along Broadstairs Promenade above the bay. Bear found a new friend and enjoyed an ice cream in the beautiful shoreline gardens.
I would love to visit Broadstairs again.
Because of its convenient situation, and to tell the truth, the name fascinates me, I will probably go back to The Canterbury Bell.
