121-days till take off. I can almost feel the pull of that enormous Air Bus as we climb out of San Francisco. Eleven hours later, I’ll be in London. Yahoo!

My itinerary is filling-up quickly. New adventures pop-up daily. I must admit, researching and planning are one of my favorite parts of any trip.

New Tour Additions

The Shropshire Hills, the birthplace of the industrial revolution, will be my bivouac for a few days. The area is called unspoiled, unrushed and tranquil. Nationally designated ‘an area of outstanding natural beauty’ Shropshire County is on the border with Wales.

I have a jam-packed itinerary while there, there’s so much to do, see, and taste.

I’ll spend two nights in Ludlow at Fishmore Hall, “a privately-owned boutique Shropshire country house hotel overlooking the charming town of Ludlow, and with unrivalled views over stunning Shropshire countryside“. Then two nights in Bishops Castle at Bank House B&B ~ “Find us right in the centre of Bishop’s Castle (just a stone’s throw away from the Town Hall and the Three Tuns Brewery) and enjoy our large rooms, with sash windows, high ceilings, log fires and great views across the rooftops of the medieval town.” How could I resist?

I’ll be paddling, pedaling, hiking, gliding and traveling by rail in Shropshire Hills.

An English countryside cycle and picnic start my first Shropshire day at Wheely Wonderful Cycling.

I’ll visit castles, churches, and markets. A visit to Ludlow Food will teach me about all the lovely local eats.

Three Tuns Brewery is escorting me on a tour and tasting. This is the oldest brewery in England. They got started in 1642. I’m guessing they have the beer brewing thing down by now.

EXCITING! I’m taking a paddle/rail adventure on the River Severn with Sun Valley Canoe. The 10.5-mile trip begins via canoe in Bridgnorth. A few miles downstream we stop at a riverside pub for lunch. After lunch and local libations, we continue to Arley. There we

leave the canoes and board the Severn Valley Steam Railway and return to Bridgnorth. What a day this will be with wildlife spotting and meeting new friends while paddling.

There is much more, but I don’t want to be a spoiler for my stories in September. Just a couple of hints: I’ll be checking out England’s highest golf course, attending a world-renowned arts festival, walking the Shropshire Way, wandering medieval villages, chatting with locals, and having a grand old time.

London Update

A luxurious hotel, The London Arch will be my home for one London night. It’s located in Great Cumberland Place near Marble Arch, between Regent’s and Hyde Park. The location will be ideal for walking and photographing some of London’s finest public art.

London is a foodie’s paradise, so you know I’ll be eating. I’m booked for Eating London’s East End Food Tour. I’m signed-up for 4-hours of touring and eating in a neighborhood of diverse cultures, architrcture, and stories. Yum!

Until next month, when my expedition previews continue, thanks for stopping by, MaryGo.