Ross walked up to Newcastle train station to pick up a minivan at 9am we booked yesterday, so John could take us on a tour further afield than the city.

We followed John and Judy in their Toyota Yaris up to Warkworth Castle, and wandered down to the shops before we then drove on to Alnwick.

There was an historic single lane arch to get into Alnwick village, where some carollers from the local church were singing and Christmas markets were trading. We walked over to Greggs for lunch of sausage rolls and pasties, coffee and “yum yums” (cylindrical-shaped Krispy Kreme tasting donuts). From there we looked at Alnwick Castle – closed until Spring unfortunately, but it is where scenes from the first two Harry Potter movies were filmed.

We then ventured further up the coast to Bamburgh Castle, walking along the beach to the castle entrance. Judy had offered to pack a towel in case Sam decided to go swimming, but thankfully forgot to bring one because Sam would have definitely dived into the North Sea if he was sure of being able to dry off afterwards!

John then led us around Bamburgh and treated us to dinner at Lewis’ fish and chips shop. We all enjoyed our fish and chips (except Sam who broke with tradition to have a chicken burger and chips). It was officially the earliest we have ever eaten dinner though as we ordered at 3.33pm! And when we left the restaurant an hour later, night had fallen and the Christmas lights lit up the shops.

The drive down to the Smees’ home was about 1.5 hours, where we stopped for a cup of tea and supper, and sang songs around their piano (played by Jarrod).

Tears were shed as we said our goodbyes to John, Judy and Liam. We have had a beautiful two days reconnecting with them. I always say it takes a village to raise children, and a board of advisers to raise me, and we are very grateful for the support they gave us through some trying times many years ago and the fact we can catch up years later and just enjoy the hospitality and making travel memories together.