Thame, Oxfordshire, England

Most of the time we've been away we know the weather at home has been good. Now back in the midlands, it did not disappoint. Despite a little rain through the night, this morning the sun was up, the sky blue, and the mercury rising.

Bliss. Sadly though today would be our last day away.

But first before heading home there was a campervan to view again, after which a discussion about Marge's future, which she must have heard, because just as we joined the M4O at Warwick her wing mirror on the driver's side became loose and almost dropped off. So a swift stop on the hard shoulder before we carried on pulling off at the next junction, stopping at a Coop for repairs.

Marge obviously wasn't happy at hearing her days might be numbered. Calm down Marge, no decision has been made yet. Despite some problems last year with her, she's served us well carrying us all the way to the south of Morocco and back, a journey of over five thousand miles without missing a beat, and again on our Scotland adventure, clocking 2467 miles, once again without a blip, except for the wing mirror incident. Now safely home, tonight we thank Marge for her reliability and the memories she's helped to create with us this year. For anyone who's interested we have been away for thirty eight nights. Spent a total of £237.00 on overnight stops,  and £38.0O on showers which equates to just over £7.23 per night. Marge's fuel cost, well we didn't bother to document this figure, with the current price of fuel it was mega bucks, but that's o.k. with our overnight costs so low we could afford to splash out on keeping Marge moving. Back home now we've much to do, and think about. With, good weather forecast for the next week, we might just fit in a couple of nights away in Sussex. Don't tell Marge, there's another van we need to look at. It will need to be exceptional if it's going to replace Marge.

Moorside Farm Motorhome Aire, Market Drayton

This morning we needed to find out if we were to stay another night at Arrowe Brooke Farm or whether we'd be heading home. John visited his daughter alone, whilst Angela sorted out inside Marge. After speaking with the doctor, who confirmed we need not stay, as his daughter was responding well to her treatment. Good news. Of course, John being John, there was a campervan nearby that had 'piqued his interest'. So after sourcing an overnight spot for just ten pounds we arranged to view the van.

Before leaving Merseyside, Marge had to be washed, evidence of Scottish sheep and cows clinging to her did not make for a great look. Tonight's stop, at Moorside Farm Motorhome Aire is perfect for us.

Firstly the price, which includes access to a toilet, secondly the location, in the countryside, close to the 4x4 campervan John is interested in.

As expected the van viewing went well, Angela feels a test drive is imminent. Don't tell Marge her days might be numbered. We have now been away for just over five weeks, if we have to stay a couple more that's fine. Four months ago we were in Morocco, our adventure began as soon as we boarded the Brittany Ferry, Barfleur at Poole. Today was the the Barfleur's final sailing from Poole to Cherbourg. The vessel has played a big part in our lives, transporting us over the years to France with our bicycles and our camper vans. Angela remembers sailing on her in 1992 when she first came into service. So, today was a sad day. Thank you Barfleur for the memories.

Arrowe Brook Farm Campsite, Birkenhead (day 2)

Today's weather has been absolutely beautiful, almost like a late spring, early summer day. Endless seamless blue skies, and clear views across to North Wales and Hilbre island.

When the tide is low, a two mile walk takes you over to Hilbre, but close attention to the tide times is essential.  The last few days have been a little intense and tiring, so before visiting the hospital we decided we needed some time out. It's been about five years since we visited this coastline, and today with such good weather the seafront was bustling. John's daughter is showing signs of improvement, but until he is happy she is well on the mend we will be staying at Arrowe Brooke Farm campsite, us and two couples with nine dogs! Nine very annoying dogs. You've done it again Marge, why do you attract these people?

Wanting to make the most of today's glorious weather we took the short drive back to West Kirby to walk around the marine boating lake, a man made saltwater lake with a path that exposes itself as the tide falls. So tomorrow we will see how things pan out. We'd like to be able to speak to a doctor at the hospital, and hopefully take another walk out. If there's one thing that's good for your mental health is a walk out in the fresh air.

Arrowe Brook Farm Campsite, Birkenhead

A disappointing night at The Cottage Loaf, during the early hours some youngsters arrived in the car park at 1.30am, noise and music disturbing our sleep. Is there no escape from these people? So after spending quite a few hours at the hospital with John's daughter, who we are pleased to report had made a little progress since yesterday, we lunched at McDonald's, as you do when you're tired and drained. Tonight Marge has been rewarded with a stay at Arrowe Brooke Farm, a working farm just minutes away from the hospital. We are very much in need of a good night's sleep and a shower.

 Scotland now seems both a long way, and a long time ago. Since we left there is now snow on the mountains which would have loved to have seen. For now, we must take each day at a time, hopefully soon we will be able to continue on our journey south. Tonight, a cozy night in Marge with a tasty curry night and Strictly Come Dancing.

What the internet says about Arrowe Brook Farm 

Arrowe Brook Farm is a peaceful, family-run working farm located on Arrowe Brook Lane, right on the border of Greasby and Arrowe. It is highly regarded as a Certificated Site for the Camping and Caravanning Club, offering a relaxed and secluded getaway.

The site itself is full of local character, with the primary brick-and-sandstone farmhouse dating back to 1726.

The Campsite & Facilities

The farm operates a low-key, member-only campsite that runs seasonally from April to October. It is split into a few distinct areas:

The Orchard Field: This is the primary Certificated Site (CS) located directly behind the old farm barns. It features 5 level grass pitches equipped with 16A electric hook-ups, tucked away in a sheltered orchard.

The Back Field & Rally Field: The Back Field accommodates additional motorhomes, caravans, and tents, while the Rally Field can be hired out for dedicated caravan societies or clubs.

On-Site Amenities: Though basic, the facilities are consistently reviewed by campers as clean and well-kept. They include a timber toilet and shower block with hot water, a pot-washing area, drinking water points, and chemical toilet/waste disposal.

Guidelines: The site generally accommodates vehicles up to a maximum length of 8.0 metres. It is a very dog-friendly site, and payments for stays are traditionally cash-only.

Location & Things to Do

What makes Arrowe Brook Farm popular is its "best of both worlds" location. It feels entirely rural and tranquil, yet it sits right on the edge of the Wirral's main hubs.

Walking & Nature: The farm has direct access to public footpaths through the fields and woods, backing right onto a local golf course and the nearby Arrowe Country Park. It is also just a short distance from the popular Wirral Way trail.

Convenience: A local pub serving food is a short 5 to 10-minute walk away, and the village of Greasby (with shops, cash points, and eateries) is about a mile up the road.

Exploring Further: Public transit is highly accessible. Campers frequently walk across the meadows to the nearby Arrowe Park Hospital bus terminal to catch direct lines (like the 471 or 472) straight into Liverpool or over to Chester.

The Cottage Loaf, Thurstaston

As always, Marge is a magnet to the person you don't want to spend a night next to. The van behind her, engine was run for fifteen minutes last night to charge up the leisure battery, and then there was multiple door banging between half five and six this morning which woke John. Once again the morning was wet, which always makes packing up awkward. We were keen to begin our journey down to Arrowe Park Hospital at Birkenhead to visit John's daughter.

The weather was atrocious, rain and spray making for difficult and dangerous driving conditions.

Thankfully after emerging from the Mersey Tunnel the weather had settled, and despite a keen wind we enjoyed some welcome sunshine. 

After a couple of hours at the hospital we drove to nearby West Kirby for a much needed stroll, before returning to the hospital for John to visit again for a short while. Angela was tired and  waited in Marge, surprised to see after yet more rain showers the sky showing signs of an autumn sunset.

Tonight we are staying at The Cottage Loaf pub in Thurstaston. We stayed here between Christmas and New Year for a night at the end of last year on our way to Anglesey.

Pub stops are great. Some of them require you to have drinks and a meal, others just a drink. If you choose not to use this pub, the cost to stay overnight is £10.20. Angela just wasn't feeling great, so John went into the pub for a well deserved alcohol free old mout cider.

Because of the seriousness of John's daughters ailment we will be staying locally again tomorrow night, probably back here at The Cottage Loaf.

What the internet says about the Cottage Loaf 

The Cottage Loaf is a popular, cosy country pub and restaurant located on Telegraph Road in Thurstaston, Wirral. Positioned perfectly for walkers, cyclists, and day-trippers, it sits right on the doorstep of Thurstaston Common and the Wirral Country Park, making it a staple stop-off for a pint or a hearty meal after exploring the local sandstone cliffs and the Wirral Way.

History & Recent Changes

The building has a rich history tied to the local area:

The Origins: It originally opened in 1930 as a set of tea rooms before being acquired by the Birkenhead Brewery in 1962 and converted into a pub.

New Ownership: While it was long known as a prominent fixture of the Greene King chain, the pub underwent a major transition when it was taken over by Edmund's Pub & Kitchen. Following a brief closure for refurbishment, the pub reopened with a refreshed interior and a focus on fresh, home-cooked quality pub food rather than standard chain menus.

Food, Drink & Vibe

The Cottage Loaf balances classic rustic charm with a modern, relaxed atmosphere.

The Menu: The food focuses heavily on comforting British pub classics, including steaks, gourmet burgers, pies, and indulgent desserts. Their Sunday Roast remains a major highlight for visitors. They also cater well to specific dietary requirements with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

The Drink: They maintain an excellent selection of beers, wines, spirits, and well-kept cask ales.

Atmosphere: It features a family-friendly, welcoming environment with a spacious garden area for the warmer months.

Practical Information & Perks

Dog Friendly: Dogs are very welcome in the bar areas and garden, making it highly convenient for those walking dogs on the common.

Motorhome Stopovers: The pub has a reputation in the campervan community as a fantastic Britstops / overnight stopover location. Motorhomes can stay overnight in the large, flat car park for free if you are buying food or drinks inside the pub (just ensure you register your vehicle registration at the bar counter when you arrive).

Parking: There is a large, free on-site car park, though it can get exceptionally busy during peak weekend hours and sunny summer days.

Kendal Cricket Club, The Lake District

What a shocker! This morning Marge was covered in frost, as was the grass nearby. It seems last night's  2c dropped to freezing or below.

We were cozy up in our pop up roof, but if you moved from under the covers it felt cold. So we breakfasted quickly, took a short walk out down by the river, the sun lighting the tops of the hills. A veil of mist hung over the river and more rolled over the lower reaches of the hills.

The scenery was beautiful, but we needed to set off, we had many miles to drive all the way to Kendal in the lake district. The weather now settled, cold and clear, how could we not stop at Tarbert alongside Loch Lomond for mid morning refreshments.

Why would anyone do this to a beautiful Oak tree?

We discussed walking the West Highland Way with the young lady behind the counter, telling her how we had to abandon our trip due to the horrendous weather and illness. She suggested, we do the walk in May, when it was quieter, the weather settled, and the midges not so bad if you camp away from the water. The reason for coming to Scotland was to do this walk, and we felt a little deflated we didn't. But what's the point at our age of pushing yourself physically in the wrong conditions and unwell. There's always another year. As we drove on, the scenery was stunning, Loch Lomond, calm and beautiful made us wish we did not have to leave Scotland so soon, but after a telephone call to Arrowe Park Hospital on the Wirral, and a talk with a doctor, John just wanted to press on so we can visit his daughter tomorrow.

We are now at Kendal Cricket Club, a favourite stopover of ours. Sadly, no walk into town for a Chinese takeaway, it is just raining too heavily. As soon as we crossed the border from Scotland into England the weather changed, if only we could have turned around.

So fish, chips and a chicken burger was tonight's meal from the chippy opposite. The cost was a lot less than Scotland, whereas as we know, there's only one price for us visitors, and that's the Scottish price!