Just before Christmas, I described my journey north, from King’s Cross station all the way to South Shields. I showed you the NRM’s wonderful picture, Going North, King’s Cross Station, by George Earl, so I was thrilled to examine it in the flesh while there. I hadn’t seen it for a few years; it’s sumptuous, and worth a visit just by itself.

'Going North, King's Cross Station', by George Earl, 1893 (NRM / Pictorial Collection / Science & Society)

Going North was one of a pair painted by Earl in the 1890s. Its counterpart, Coming South, Perth Station, is on show too. They depicted the British establishment heading to the Scottish estates in August to hunt, and they’re exceedingly rich in detailed information about life at the height of the railway age.

'Coming South, Perth Station', by George Earl, 1895 (NRM / Pictorial Collection / Science & Society)

I also showed you previously this lovely poster of my home town:

South Shields railway poster (NRM / Pictorial Collection / Science & Society)

While I was up there over Christmas, I tried to recreate the view, but this was the best I could manage (and I forgot my camera, so this a camera-phone shot). Somehow, the glamour seems to have faded just a little…

South Shields beach, 28 December 2009 (David Rooney)

I made it back down south safely, but by the looks of things, I got here just in time. Be careful out there in the snow, won’t you?

It’s an early start at King’s Cross station…

'Going North, King's Cross Station', 1893 (NRM / Pictorial Collection / Science & Society)

…before I clamber aboard my fast train heading north on the east coast main line.

London & North Eastern Railway locomotive 'Mallard', 1938 (National Railway Museum / Science & Society)

With luck, I’ll arrive into the glorious Newcastle Central station three hours later…

'Interior of the Central Railway Station, Newcastle', 1850 (Science Museum / Science & Society)

…and onwards to South Shields, where I was born and brought up.

'South Shields' LNER poster (NRM / Pictorial Collection / Science & Society)

I’ll probably give the open air bathing pool a miss this year, but I’m sure I’ll find time to tread the golden sands during marine promenades (or maybe I’ll just curl up cosy with a book).

Do I have too romantic a vision for my Christmas excursion? I hope not. But one thing’s for sure: I’ll be far away from broadband and blogging software, so I’ve pre-recorded some festive posts and cued them up ready to be released (as if by digital magic) while I’m away. Do check back, if you feel like it, on Christmas Day, the following Monday and Wednesday, and on New Year’s Day. Normal service resumes on Monday the 4th.

Season’s greetings, dear readers!