What a great flight from Germany to the UK? The trip took less than 90 minutes and Frankfurt Airport was very easy to negotiate. We flew with Lufthansa ( or its Star Alliance partner bni) and they were fantastic. Even offered us extra wine. Michael was impressed.

The immigration process in Birmingham though was pretty slow. Interesting today the newspapers are reporting a call for a change to these processes for Australians, Canadians, and New Zealanders.

Immigration officials spent a long time interviewing people in our line about where they were going to stay. It was obvious they were worried about people getting here and then disappearing among the crowds. Our chat took a few seconds once we got to the counter.

We had a bit of a walk around Birmingham, but mostly stuck to malls as it was quite wet. Eventually we found a couple of pubs. The first one was a big disappointment as it did not have local ale. The next one though was great as it had a huge selection. Michael tried Bishop’s Finger, Searchlight, EPA, Woodford and a Ruddler’s. Not all pints you will be pleased to know. We both had a mixed grill for dinner and the pork sausage and grilled lamb chops were fantastic. No photos this time!

Our hotel is a budget one, Brittania Hotel, but we picked it as it is so close to the railway station. The breakfast made up for any short comings of the room. Fried toast ( deep fried!) lots of bacon, eggs etc and a real pot of tea.

Our trip to Tenbury Wells has been delayed a few hours as the train station we are to get off at will be closed until after 2.30pm because the Queen and Prince Phillip are going there today.

This will give us a chance to see a little more of Birmingham and perhaps for me to buy myself a new pair of walking shoes. As we are carrying backpacks, the rule is, if you buy something you have to throw something away. I am prepared to do this!