Ludlow in Summer

                    We went down to Ludlow the other day, enjoying another train journey, although this time I managed not to fall flat on my face on the platform.   It was one of those rare beautiful late summer days, and we decided that a stroll around Ludlow's interesting little shops would be just the thing to do on Gorgeous Husband's day off.

We had morning coffee in this lovely little cafe, which was new since the last time we had been to Ludlow.  It was tiny and delightful, and they served my cappuccino with amaretto crumbs on top, instead of chocolate or cinnamon. Delicious!  It was a very old building, with a small fireplace, and exposed beams on the ceiling.  I think it used to be someone's living room at one time. 

                        Isn't this window seat delightful from the interior of the cafe? 
                                      How I would love to have one in my home!

 The view from outside.  Gorgeous flowers, and a tiny table and chairs outside on the miniscule patio.
Wish I could have such a fantastic blooming garden.  Most likely you have to take care of it for it to look like this.

              My bangles.  Photo a bit blurred, as I was taking it myself and stretching my arm out.

 This is a detail of the necklace.  I'm not sure it is supposed to be a necklace, as it is quite large.  I think it's one of those things you hang up somewhere.  I added it to the fish necklace I already had, and I like the effect, although it may not be everyone's cup of tea.

This lovely shop was across from the cafe.  It had lots of contemporary crafts, and I was particularly taken with the knitted outfit by Alison Dupernex, hanging on the front door.  I know Alison from years ago, when I was arranging art exhibits of British crafts.  I met her at a Contemporary Craft Fair in Hereford and she very kindly let me take home a cardigan without paying for it, on the understanding that I would send her a cheque for it in the mail later.  It was all pastel ice-cream coloured stripes, and I wore it to death.  This is her website: www.alisondupernex.co.uk  (I hope I've done the link right.)

If you are interested in history, King Henry VIII's older brother, Prince Arthur used to live in Ludlow Castle with his bride, Catherine of Aragon.  Arthur died before becoming king, so the crown went to Henry -- as well as the widow!  She was the first of his 6 wives.  Ludlow Castle is genteely crumbling at the present, but still impressive looking, and a great tourist attraction for the town.

Details of the outfit:

Mustard coloured jacket, cream skirt, bangles, and necklace: charity shops

Striped tee shirt: New Look

Shoes: fake snakeskin sandals, charity shop