The group left Hucknall Market Place at 8.30am on Monday, 31st July, to visit Quarry Bank Mill. After a two hour drive we were met by volunteers from the National Trust who gave out our tickets for the day and maps of the site.
Those members who wanted to visit the Apprentice’s House were given timed tickets for this tour.
The grounds at Quarry Bank are very extensive and include a variety of activities. The centre piece is the old cotton mill, parts of which date back to the 17th century and includes machinery that is still working today. Covering five floors there was a lot to see.
Next to the mill members were also able to visit Quarry Bank House. Close by were very large gardens on two levels and a lovely riverside walk.
There was the customary mix of National Trust shops and two cafes on site.
A short walk away was the village of Styal with its church and well preserved buildings which once housed the mill workers and their families.
A torrential downpour of rain caught a few of the members as we walked back to the coach after a very busy and enjoyable day.
Mainly light traffic on the return journey saw us arrive back in Hucknall for 6.15pm