Today had all the potential to go wrong. There have been rail strikes in the city causing major delays. We were very worried but the train I booked months ago, seemed to be okay. Or so we thought…

Firstly, time to pack up and leave our beautiful flat in Maida Vale. We headed to Euston station to drop off our bags for some last minute shopping and lunch. Halfway through our sandwiches, we got the notification that our train had been cancelled. Bugger. Off we went back to the station but they seemed unconcerned and let us take any train leaving for Manchester. So we left earlier than expected!

After about 2 hours to a train and a cab ride, we settled in to the Holiday Inn and tried to sleep before having to head out again at 4 in the morning!