Exciting day, with lots of driving

And all to places I’ve never been before. First stop Ludlow for lunch on a bench, and a wander. Above is a fabulous display of hollyhocks - my favourites- which I try hard to grow.  These ones - if you look carefully - some are growing out of the tarmac! Amazing. I’ve also added an extra of some old places around the city centre, which were built in the 17th century. Apparently John Betjeman said it was the most beautiful town in England.  It’s certainly interesting and enjoyable to walk around, especially the little side roads and alleyways. And there was a group of about 20 swifts criss crossing the sky, shrieking and making me feel very happy. However the city centre is a bit like anywhere these days - a lot of closed down shops and a bit tawdry.  But they do have TWO Oxfam shops! I couldn’t walk past the bookshop - hoping for another Val McDermid, but no luck:)
Then I drove on to Cheshire - such incredibly beautiful countryside - the Shropshire hills, farms with already golden crops, wonderful trees, lots of purple loosestrife on the verges. Of course I couldn’t take photos so these lovely views will need to be kept in my memory. 
My friend H lives in a village called Wrenbury. I used to work with her in Bristol - she moved to Cheshire a dozen years ago, where she has family connections. She lives in a tiny cottage with wonderful wild front and back gardens. A haven for birds, we saw so many while sitting outside, catching up. After our evening meal, we walked beside the Llangollen canal which runs through the village. My second and third extras.  The evening sunshine, long shadows, reflections, water birds, narrow boats, and boat people sitting eating and drinking on the towpath, made a lovely scene. 
I’m staying in a Premier inn nearby, as she doesn’t have a spare room. Perfectly ok, and luckily they have a fan, as it’s been hot all day, and still is late in the evening.