Lunch in Ramsey

A few years ago, we met Trevor, who was involved at the time with the motorcycle racing on the island.  Over the years, our relationship moved from a 'business slant' to a friendship. Now retired and trying to revive his golf game, we caught up over lunch in Ramsey.

Given that the island produces the best lamb ever, I had to try a local Shepherd's pie.  In North America, it is usually made with ground beef (known here as a 'Cottage Pie'), 

but a genuine one is made with ground lamb.

It did not disappoint.

As Trevor had a golf date in the afternoon, we took advantage of the free afternoon and enjoyed what Ramsey had to offer.

A walk along the Promenade saw revitalization...

but still had the neglected building I saw last year, 

still needing some love

I hope someone will bring this old beauty back to life.

Glen Helen

One of my objectives here on the island is to visit as many Glens as possible.

Today it was Glen Helen's turn

Our friends and cottage mates

An early Victorian fountain

Our next stop was to visit Tony East's private museum, A.R.E.

Ever ridden a GRANITE motorcycle?

Our last stop was a visit to Ramsey harbour.

It certianly was 'low tide'

Off to the races tomorrow!

Isle of Man - And, they are off!

For the next race day, we drove to Ramsey, which is nearly at the top of the island, on the east coast.  We set up our folding chairs at May Hill, to catch all the action coming towards us and heading up the hill.  We had prime seats!  With my tripod firmly planted, I caught all the action:

On our way back home, we had to wait for the bridge over the harbour to come down from having let boats through.  I took the opportunity to catch the late afternoon sun cast shadows over the yachts.

To cap a perfect day, we dined looking over the water, with Port St. Mary in the back gound, at the Shore Hotel on the south coast.  My mouth had been watering for months, waiting for my first taste of a Manx classic, 'lamb shanks'.  I was not disappointed.

Joining us for dinner was our cottage mates and good friends from the UK.

I succumbed to desert (or pudding, as the Brits would say) when I was told the special was vanilla creme brule.  Ken had to try the apple and blackberry crumble.

  Tomorrow; food fair on the Strand and Groudle Glen