Staycation Matlock - Day 5

Home day. After a really nice time away, we were up bright and early to get packed up and away 

We had to be out by 10am, but with super speed we were off at 09.18am! We decided on the M1 route home and then the west side of the M25. There was a bit of confusion as we headed east as the satnav wanted us to head away from the signposted M1 (South). We followed the signs and joined at J26.

Progress was good with the cruise control at 70mph for most of the way. I do wonder why some drivers wait until you are in an overtaking lane, then speed up. This leaves you stranded! A minute later you sail past them.

First stop was at the Watford Gap services. There is some grass for Reggie to exercise his feet and have a pee. Claire bought coffee. We were there no longer than 25 minutes. 

Then off. There is a reduced speed limit on the M1 from there to almost Milton Keynes. They are obviously building a smart motorway. But for thirty or so miles no actual sign of work. Not even any equipment. Another show of how crap Highways England are.

With the M4 closed miles away and it feeding back to the M25 we decided to take the eastward loop and the Dartford Crossing.

Traffic crawled to the junction, then we got back to 70 and the overheads announced a vehicle fire. Traffic stopped completely for about 15 .inutes just before the A1 junction. Sadly someone's car was totally destroyed.

Our next stop was Thurrock. Not my favourite services. I go there every year for the Ring of Red on Remembrance Sunday. I found new to us grass and Reggie once again watered the flowers.

And we were off again. The next stop at my Aunt's to pick up her Magimix to take it to the repairers. That's not far from where we live. A job for tomorrow.

That done and we were home about 2.45pm. car unloaded, Reggie fed. Time to unwind.