Day 43 – IAW – Day 1 Steam trip to Dartmouth and surrounds

Day 43 – IAW – Day 1 Steam trip to Dartmouth and surrounds

The Alvis car park - Hotel in Paginton

The IAW organisers provided 3 choices for today's outings and we had decided on the steam train from Paginton to Dartmouth, ferry across the river then later a 1hour cruise up the river from Dartmouth.  But first we shopped (and picked up fish and chips for lunch) at the market and shops in Dartmouth village.

Gathering for the steam train in Paginton

We had a couple of hours to kill before boarding the cruise at  3.15 pm.  The markets and shops were quite nice - a bit touristy but we did manage to find the odd trincket to add to the luggage. 

Car ferry across the river in Dartmouth

Our steam paddle boat for the cruise up the river.

It was a lovely day - although bit too much sun and it became quite hot.  We then returned on the steam train back to Paginton and the hotel.  Great day and no driving involved. 

The formal dinner was tonight.  Once again the precision of the wait staff was amazing. Menu included fanned melon (which I studied carefully just in case Ruth asked me to do it again), succulent chicken breast in a white wine sauce and a selection of vegetables followed by a lovely crumble (apple and pear).

The evening was also very warm and we had to step outside a couple of times to get some fresh air.  There was dancing until midnight which most people avoided however a small hardy group of  party animals stayed and enjoyed the evening naturally this included we Aussies! 

(No incriminating photos available - dam !)