We had a lovely day yesterday. Julian and I are part of a group of over sixty other B&Bs in the Torbay area who work closely together. Set up many decades ago, its original purpose was to act as a buying group to get bulk discounts. Today, it's also very much a social group and a way of networking with other B&Bs and passing around ideas, business, and an ideal way to make friends. Being new to the area a year ago, we found membership extremely useful and have met some lovely people.
So, back to yesterday...now October is almost upon us, B&Bs are finally getting their breath back from the manic summer season. It was therefore the ideal time to hold the group's first social event of the off season. It happened to be a crazy golf championship along with a casual lunch and drinks afterwards.
This was the first time I had played at our local crazy golf course, despite walking past it each and every time I venture into town. I always seem to be on the way somewhere so I don't have chance to stop off.
I was really impressed with how immaculate and well-kept everything was. I was assured by a fellow member that the pitch and putt next door is just as well kept and a great course.
The September sun was surprisingly hot and we had a great game.
Afterwards, we all met up in the One World Cafe which is right next door. Lyn, the friendly owner welcomed us and we enjoyed some drinks and a lovely meal.
The best bit, and really quite surprising was that I not only won Best Male Golfer - rewarded by a bottle of Prosecco (alcohol is always gratefully received) but Julian and I also won Best B&B Golf Champions too and took home the cup! Along with this we get the added advantage of a complimentary cream tea at the One World Cafe. We were "chuffed to bits" as my dad would say.
So, next time you're staying with us and have a sunny afternoon free, we can thoroughly recommend a game of golf followed by drinks and a snack down near the sea. On foot, it's less than a ten minute stroll from The 25, just the other side of Torre Abbey gardens.
As we're closed this evening for a much needed rest, we're off to enjoy our cream tea now and taking Patsy with us too for what will no doubt be another enjoyable afternoon in the sun on the English Riviera.
www.abbeyparkleisure.co.uk/