A few weeks ago we received an offer of a visit to France for £140. This included ferry crossing with four people in a car, and a three course meal with two bottles of wine in a French Château. This was an offer hard to refuse, so we decided with two friends, Terry and Su, to take the trip.
Terry and Su stayed for the night so that we could take off quite early. After an uneventful journey – my drive and Terry’s excellent navigation – we arrived at Château Tilques, not far from Saint-Omer. Before taking lunch we had a small walk in the surrounding park. The food, drink, service and the general ambience were excellent; it was a day to relax and enjoy.
After taking coffeee on the terrace we decided, as we had some spare time, to make a short visit to Saint-Omer. Following that we did our compulsury shopping in Calais and were at home by late evening. It turned out an enjoyable day for all of us.
Châteou Tilques
View of the château from the park
The same view with Terry, Su and me
Terry, Su and Ann
The great photographer
Ann trying to find out how her camera worked
The Restaurant
The menu
Terry obviously did not.
Ann's Sorbets Artisanaux
What strategy should I use to attack a Croquant de Chocolat Praliné?
The Garden Terrace
A leasurely cup of coffee on the terrace after lunch.
A couple of peacocks came to visit us on the terrace. They looked so regal that we dared not offend them by offering them a few morsels.
Another light stroll threough the park before departing for Saint-Omer.
Being a lovely day we decided to visit the Arboretum first
It was a peaceful sight: people relaxing on the grass, enjoying the sun and each other's company.
Terry and Ann dutifully posing for the camera
Walking in the shadows along the ramparts: I, Su and Ann.
Comming out of the shadows of the ramparts the cathedral tower rises up above the city walls.
Cathedral Notre Dame
Tiny chldren's shoes on the altar of Saint Erkembode, offerings to 'Le Saint Qui Fait Marcher!'
The Rose Window
The famous astrological clock of Notre Dame installed in 1558. There are only two other such devices known to be in existence, in Prague and in Lyons.
On the ferry home Ann experimenting on Terry with her camera.
