VISIT TO FOUNTAINS ABBEY – Thursday 26th of August.
Well, after a delay of over five hundred days, members were all assembled on Hucknall Market Place at 8.20 am. ready to leave at 8.30 am. After a check of names and numbers and a greeting to everyone from our driver (Paul) we were ready for our drive up to North Yorkshire.
On arrival everyone was soon checked in and ready to begin exploring and walking the beautiful grounds. At this point some members booked on various organised tours that were available, while others headed for an early hot drink and cake before starting their exploring. The weather was good for walking with the cloud eventually giving way to periods of sunshine by early afternoon.
On our walk round Studley Royal Park we had the opportunity to explore two main areas; The Abbey site – which includes a large monastic ruin from the 12th century, Fountains Hall (a Country House dating back to the Elizabethan era) and Fountains Mill which was still in use at the beginning of the last century.
In contrast to these buildings, in the second area, we saw Studley Royal Water Gardens which featured large scale contemporary artworks designed by British artist, Steve Messam and entitled ‘These Passing Things’. All of this plus the Victorian St Marys Church, the Studley Medieval Deer Park and the cafes, shops and tea rooms made for a busy but very enjoyable day.
Our return journey saw us arrive safely back in Hucknall just after six o’clock after a thoroughly enjoyable day.
NATIONAL TRUST PLANS FOR SEPTEMBER TO DECEMBER 2021
Please note that there will NOT be a National Trust table at the September Members’ meeting as Sue and I are unable to attend.
However, by mid September we will email or write to all NT group members with our plans for two more visits before the end of the year, Covid permitting!!!!
Firstly, we are planning to book a day in October to visit a fairly local venue.. Secondly, we will try to book a visit in late November or early December to Belton House to see the House decorated for Christmas and then stay as darkness falls to enjoy the Light Trail round the grounds.
We will get dates and other details out, as stated above, to all members by mid September.