We left Manchester, passing by the Trafford Stadium - home of Manchester United - and then the cricket ground at Old Trafford.
We stopped at medieval Chester, a town which has retained the whole of its original perimeter wall. Many of the buildings, now used as shops, date from the 15th century. St Werburgh Cathedral, typical of English cathedrals in having been modified many times, dates from between 1093 and the early 16th century, although the site itself may have been used for Christian worship since Roman times. The original church was built as the abbey church of a Benedictine monastery.
Onwards to Wales through rolling green country-side. Wales is dotted throughout with ancient castles. Next stop, the place in all of Europe with the longest name - Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwyll-llantysiliogogogoch - translated means 'St Mary's Church in the hollow of the white hazel near a rapid whirlpool and the Church of St Tysilio of the red cave'. A quick stop then off to Hollyhead for the ferry ride to Ireland.
The trip across the Irish Sea on the 'Ulysses' was very smooth and the 4 hour trip went quickly. The bar, shopping and free WiFi helped pass the time.
We arrived into Dublin in time to board a Liffey River canal boat for dinner. We had great entertainment and an excellent meal as we travelled along the Liffey.