I had enjoyed my dinner in The Crescent’s new-build restaurant, which I believe is roughly where the previous restaurant and ballroom used to be. While Lee was reluctant to join me for dinner, still feeling “under the weather”, we did meet up for breakfast this morning. I had enthused to him about all aspects of last night’s dinner, and at breakfast, in that same restaurant, we were shown to our table. Immediately, we were offered our choice of breakfast beverage, I, myself, opting a second time for Earl Grey tea, and this time, remembering to use the strainer! Guests followed us, were shown to their tables, and for some reason, placed their breakfast orders before any waiter or waitress came to take our order. We had waited almost forty minutes, and I needed to remind somebody we were still there! Service after that became what it should be, with numerous checks that we now had all that we needed.
It is several years since the spectre of sciatica reared its ugly head. While getting up yesterday morning, at home, I twisted my lower back ever so slightly, after which, I experienced a crescendo of discomfort and pain. Walking had become difficult, and rising from the leather sofas and chairs in various lounges and the Bar, an increasing challenge. Nevertheless, I did sleep well and was able (with care) to make it to the bathroom numerous times in the night, always dropping back off to sleep. I was reluctant to try the bath, lest I became marooned! In the end, I did feel confident of not having the embarrassment of requesting assistance, and I enjoyed the soak of a lifetime! The discomfort became far more manageable and my day was not quite written off. Lee urged me to make use of the Spa, and I agreed. There are some brilliant facilities available, many included in the price of the room. But, I had forgotten to pack my trunks!
I walked into Buxton, but bumped into a former neighbour and got into well over an hour’s conversation.
Nevertheless, there was still plenty of time. I first went to Fitzgerald’s on Spring Gardens for a sandwich and coffee. There was still loads of time; I ventured to Potters of Buxton, from where I buy all my clothes and other stuff. I waited to be served, but no personnel was forthcoming. I went to a sports shop; but, they had returned all their stock of swimming trunks to their suppliers as it was no longer summer! I ventured back to Potters. It was like “Groundhog Day”, the same elderly customer taking up the only sales assistant’s time, and an elderly lady seated on a chair, exactly the same as half an hour previously. My characteristic reluctance to avail myself of the Spa won the day, and eventually, after leafing through a couple of railway periodicals in my bedroom, while “Tipping Point” and “The Chase” failed to grab my attention on the T.V., I vacated my “junior suite” for an evening stroll in the Pavilion Gardens.
I enjoyed my walk, stopping to take photographs fairly frequently.
In fact, I started writing this blog seated on an almost dry park bench just below the Broadwalk. Then, it was time to leg-it to the Hotel to change for dinner, for my third helping of leek and potato soup….just as delicious and piping hot. I am trying a liver dish for my main course, replacing a side plate of chips for a mixed salad!
I have just finished what sadly has to be my final dinner here. I will look back on these two visits, last week and this, with considerable pleasure. I think, generally, The Crescent has been well received. Obviously, these are very early days, and as such was pleased that any issues I experienced were very few and insignificant. Breakfast can be slow, as previously described. Nevertheless, the menu offers a comprehensive choice, and there is little need for lunch! If I am a tad disgruntled, it is more with the probable effects of Coronavirus when walking around the Pavilion Gardens. The complex has a sad air of neglect, e.g. grubby windows, peeling paintwork. It’s not derelict; the Octagon was being used as a gym when I walked by. But then, the new jewel in Buxton’s crown, gleaming like the Coliseum probably highlights the surrounding room for improvement. However, I did, very much enjoy my “holiday in Buxton”.
Many thanks for reading; this blog was written tonight in Pavilion Gardens, in the Hotel and in my room. David 22.42 hrs. 7/10/20.
David's Cruise 