Sunday evening and Helmsley Castle had become Padua. Well, for one night. We were there for what turned out to be a rather enjoyable outdoor production of The Taming of the Shrew, courtesy of the Rain or Shine Theatre Company. And rain it certainly did. So much so we had to buy a couple of the plastic ponchos being sold with the programmes (though the sight of the Husband in his convinced me they were not our best look).
Of course, we took the obligatory picnic. I'd made From a North London Kitchen's tomato and basil focaccia which went very nicely with a wedge of ripe Brie, some giant olives and cherry tomatoes. Pudding was home baked soft and chewy chocolate chip cookies. (No photographs, unfortunately, as there was a fair bit of juggling going on to avoid soggy food). We stayed in Helmsley overnight and drove home via Byland Abbey.
Oh yes, and I somehow managed to prang the car as we set off from the hotel. Fortunately, it's getting repaired later this week. Now, what else could I have spent £200 on?