From Exeter back to Gatwick
Friday, the last day of our fully packed South West England trip started in Exeter, after that night disturbed by the fire alarm. A long way from Devon trough Somerset and Wiltshire to Hampshire and Surrey. More than 180 miles mainly on the highways. Although we did a couple of breaks, at first in Somerset at the Nation Trust landmark, Barrington Court.
This is an old, charming Tudor manor house completed in the late 1550 surrounded by formal gardens, located in stunning Somerset countryside. The whole estate, over 70 acres includes farm buildings, cottages, tennis court and large park side. The Strode house which is open to visitors drags you back to the past times and invites you to spent some time with Colonel Lyle’s family who restored the house in 1920s.
Few hours later we swiftly continued on the highway and several B-roads due to heavy Friday traffic. Occasionally we drove some funny narrow (just one line) paths connecting the other roads.
The highlight of our road trip, kept in a secret until the last day, was in front of us.
We soon arrive to a huge parking space, got our tickets and were sitting in a shuttle bus. Getting of it, we could finally see, one of the most iconic historical sites across the world, the Stonehenge.
This must-see Stone Circle monument with its unforgettable atmosphere dating back to 4000 years ago is a powerful statement of human ingenuity and creativity. What a landmark to finish our wonderful SW England road trip!
Reaching Gatwick airport in the late evening, we concluded more than 800 driven miles, in those 6 demanding but beautiful English days, full of unforgettable memories and breath-taking sceneries.