Report on the Paignton Probus Members Train Outing / Trip to Exeter on Thursday 30th November 2023 to see the Cathedral Green Christmas Market.
Whilst Mother Nature tried her best to dampen our spirits on this day, she failed! The best she achieved was to dampen our overcoat’s.
The weather in Paignton was cold and wet when we set off, but when we first arrived in Exeter it was dry. However, it soon started proper snowing, which I personally thought was quite nice and seasonal, seeing as many decorations around the city and market had fake snow on them. Yes, it was a bit chilly, but we expected this weather, and most had dressed accordingly.
The. Train rides, both up there and back, were great, on time, clean, modern, and nice and warm!
The market was not that busy (helped by the weather I feel), which made it easy to get around (unlike last Saturday when Liz and I visited to do a bit of a recce, plus, some shopping).
Out of the 14 of us that went on this trip, eleven (11) had a group lunch at the Cote Brassiere Restaurant on Cathedral Green, the twelfth person (a lady) chose to do a spot of Christmas shopping instead. We all had fantastic meals and some really great camaraderie, not mention quite a few laughs. Thank you, Cote Brassiere.
Two other members chose to visit another restaurant for old times’ sake, or romantic memories, I’m not sure which 😂😂.
I (the Chairman) had catered for the possibility of poor weather by researching the facilities available at The Royal Albert Memorial Museum, as this is situated between Exeter Central Station the High Street and Christmas Market (actually very close to the station.
This, I feel, worked very well as it’s free entry and they cater for the disabled, deaf, and sight impaired, plus, it is well lit and heated, and they have a nice Café.
I think, despite the weather, everyone had a good time, the camaraderie throughout was great, and Roger got himself a new hat 😂
Thanks for coming everyone.
Chris Martin
(And another big thanks from everyone, to you, Chairman Chris, for all your hard work organising the event)
Paignton Probus Club 