Janet Roberts's Blog, page 19
February 9, 2013
Snowdrops - Hodsock Priory - Nottinghamshire
http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Hodsock Priory is 4 miles north of Worksop in North Nottinghamshire. It's history dates back to the Bronze age, and it has a mention in the Domesday Book of 1087. It has entertained royalty including Henry II, John and Edward I, and Henry VIII in 1541.
It covers 800 acres and has been in the Buchanan family since 1765. It is most famous for it's snowdrops and is open to the public for two weeks in May each year.
It was a couple of decades since I last visited, so definitely time for a return trip!
The first thing I noticed was the group of attractive marquees near the entrance. These housed an impressive cafe, where I could have had the usual snacks or a full pie meal. (I settled for tea and cake - and very nice it was too!)
The other marquee held attractive stalls, and I arrived just in time to hear George Buchanan 6th Baronet, give a most interesting talk. I had wondered about the catering facilities as I remembered only too vividly that previously I had gone into the Priory, where facilities were less than ideal. Now the house is closed to the public, at least during snowdrop fortnight, as the necessary salt on the pathways then stuck to people's footwear, and was causing dreadful damage to the ancient floorboards and skirting.
Then it was time to wander round the impressive grounds with the lovely Elizabethan-style house reflected in the lake.
Out in the woods there were great vistas of snowdrops, and many of these were on sale outside the main marquees.
It was good to know that this very special place will be open again several times during the coming year, and I am certainly looking forward to a return visit.
For more about my ebooks just click here
Hodsock Priory is 4 miles north of Worksop in North Nottinghamshire. It's history dates back to the Bronze age, and it has a mention in the Domesday Book of 1087. It has entertained royalty including Henry II, John and Edward I, and Henry VIII in 1541.
It covers 800 acres and has been in the Buchanan family since 1765. It is most famous for it's snowdrops and is open to the public for two weeks in May each year.
It was a couple of decades since I last visited, so definitely time for a return trip!The first thing I noticed was the group of attractive marquees near the entrance. These housed an impressive cafe, where I could have had the usual snacks or a full pie meal. (I settled for tea and cake - and very nice it was too!)
The other marquee held attractive stalls, and I arrived just in time to hear George Buchanan 6th Baronet, give a most interesting talk. I had wondered about the catering facilities as I remembered only too vividly that previously I had gone into the Priory, where facilities were less than ideal. Now the house is closed to the public, at least during snowdrop fortnight, as the necessary salt on the pathways then stuck to people's footwear, and was causing dreadful damage to the ancient floorboards and skirting.Then it was time to wander round the impressive grounds with the lovely Elizabethan-style house reflected in the lake.
Out in the woods there were great vistas of snowdrops, and many of these were on sale outside the main marquees.It was good to know that this very special place will be open again several times during the coming year, and I am certainly looking forward to a return visit.
For more about my ebooks just click here
February 8, 2013
Snowdrops - Godsock Priory - Nottinghamshire
http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Hodsock Priory is 4 miles north of Worksop in North Nottinghamshire. It's history dates back to the Bronze age, and it has a mention in the Domesday Book of 1087. It has entertained royalty including Henry II, John and Edward I, and Henry VIII in 1541.
It covers 800 acres and has been in the Buchanan family since 1765. It is most famous for it's snowdrops and is open to the public for two weeks in May each year.
It was a couple of decades since I last visited, so definitely time for a return trip!
The first thing I noticed was the group of attractive marquees near the entrance. These housed an impressive cafe, where I could have had the usual snacks or a full pie meal. (I settled for tea and cake - and very nice it was too!)
The other marquee held attractive stalls, and I arrived just in time to hear George Buchanan 6th Baronet, give a most interesting talk. I had wondered about the catering facilities as I remembered only too vividly that previously I had gone into the Priory, where facilities were less than ideal. Now the house is closed to the public, at least during snowdrop fortnight, as the necessary salt on the pathways then stuck to people's footwear, and was causing dreadful damage to the ancient floorboards and skirting.
Then it was time to wander round the impressive grounds with the lovely Elizabethan-style house reflected in the lake.
Out in the woods there were great vistas of snowdrops, and many of these were on sale outside the main marquees.
It was good to know that this very special place will be open again several times during the coming year, and I am certainly looking forward to a return visit.
For more about my ebooks just click here
Hodsock Priory is 4 miles north of Worksop in North Nottinghamshire. It's history dates back to the Bronze age, and it has a mention in the Domesday Book of 1087. It has entertained royalty including Henry II, John and Edward I, and Henry VIII in 1541.
It covers 800 acres and has been in the Buchanan family since 1765. It is most famous for it's snowdrops and is open to the public for two weeks in May each year.
It was a couple of decades since I last visited, so definitely time for a return trip!The first thing I noticed was the group of attractive marquees near the entrance. These housed an impressive cafe, where I could have had the usual snacks or a full pie meal. (I settled for tea and cake - and very nice it was too!)
The other marquee held attractive stalls, and I arrived just in time to hear George Buchanan 6th Baronet, give a most interesting talk. I had wondered about the catering facilities as I remembered only too vividly that previously I had gone into the Priory, where facilities were less than ideal. Now the house is closed to the public, at least during snowdrop fortnight, as the necessary salt on the pathways then stuck to people's footwear, and was causing dreadful damage to the ancient floorboards and skirting.Then it was time to wander round the impressive grounds with the lovely Elizabethan-style house reflected in the lake.
Out in the woods there were great vistas of snowdrops, and many of these were on sale outside the main marquees.It was good to know that this very special place will be open again several times during the coming year, and I am certainly looking forward to a return visit.
For more about my ebooks just click here
January 17, 2013
Millers Dale - Monsal Trail - Derbyshire
http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
I've written several times about walking along the Monsal Trail - see previous posts.
This time it was explore along from Millers Dale, with its imposing viaduct that I'd driven under many times. The railway station was built in 1863 by the Midland Railway and enabled passengers from Buxton to connect with express trains running between London and Manchester. By 1905 it was such a busy place three more platforms were added to the original two, as well as adding another viaduct across the valley. It also had the distinction of being one of the few stations in England with it's own Post Office.
The railway enabled farmers to use the 'Milk Train' to distribute their goods, as well as transporting large quantities of stone from the lime works, originally opened in 1876 just above the station. Today this area is a wildlife haven.
The views from the viaduct were certainly spectacular - even on a winter's day, and must be quite lovely when the trees are covered with foliage.
As with other parts of the Monsal Trail, the walkway was dotted with this amazing speakers, that you just wind up to hear. There is a wide choice of possibilities, and it's good to stop and listen while having a snack!
Turning these discontinued railway tracks into trails is just so brilliant and it is now possible to enjoy eight and a half miles of traffic free walking, cycling and horse riding, enjoying the spectacular limestone scenery all the way from Bakewell to Wyedale near Buxton. Just marvellous!
I've written several times about walking along the Monsal Trail - see previous posts.
This time it was explore along from Millers Dale, with its imposing viaduct that I'd driven under many times. The railway station was built in 1863 by the Midland Railway and enabled passengers from Buxton to connect with express trains running between London and Manchester. By 1905 it was such a busy place three more platforms were added to the original two, as well as adding another viaduct across the valley. It also had the distinction of being one of the few stations in England with it's own Post Office.
The railway enabled farmers to use the 'Milk Train' to distribute their goods, as well as transporting large quantities of stone from the lime works, originally opened in 1876 just above the station. Today this area is a wildlife haven.The views from the viaduct were certainly spectacular - even on a winter's day, and must be quite lovely when the trees are covered with foliage.
As with other parts of the Monsal Trail, the walkway was dotted with this amazing speakers, that you just wind up to hear. There is a wide choice of possibilities, and it's good to stop and listen while having a snack!
Turning these discontinued railway tracks into trails is just so brilliant and it is now possible to enjoy eight and a half miles of traffic free walking, cycling and horse riding, enjoying the spectacular limestone scenery all the way from Bakewell to Wyedale near Buxton. Just marvellous!
January 8, 2013
'The Rook' - Hartington - Derbyshire
http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
I was shocked to find that the Hartington Pottery - actually called 'Rookes Pottery' had disappeared. Catherine and David stared potting at Ipstones in 1977 expanding to this building in Derbyshire in 1984 where they made earthenware until May 2012.
It has now become a cafe, called 'The Rook'. It is also going to be a Gallery and shop, although as they have only been there since August, this side of the business is still to be established. The first thing that strikes you as you enter is the most impressive industrial kitchen, where fresh home-cooked food is served from 8.30 in the morning. I had a mild curried vegetable soup with croutons, a warm roll and butter (£4) and it was absolutely delicious, and ideal for a chilly winter day. I could have had a more substantial meal, or a take-away snack.
The original floor of the pottery has been maintained, making it ideal for muddy boots I thought! There is also a ping-pong table at the rear, a kids corner and wi-fi available free.
I really admire people who start up a new business in these difficult financial times, but I think this couple could do well as The Rook is situated almost opposite the village car park, next to the public toilets, and adjacent to the foot path leading to Dovedale.
I certainly wish them well, and look forward to my next visit.
To learn more about me and to see all my e-book just click here
I was shocked to find that the Hartington Pottery - actually called 'Rookes Pottery' had disappeared. Catherine and David stared potting at Ipstones in 1977 expanding to this building in Derbyshire in 1984 where they made earthenware until May 2012.
It has now become a cafe, called 'The Rook'. It is also going to be a Gallery and shop, although as they have only been there since August, this side of the business is still to be established. The first thing that strikes you as you enter is the most impressive industrial kitchen, where fresh home-cooked food is served from 8.30 in the morning. I had a mild curried vegetable soup with croutons, a warm roll and butter (£4) and it was absolutely delicious, and ideal for a chilly winter day. I could have had a more substantial meal, or a take-away snack. 
The original floor of the pottery has been maintained, making it ideal for muddy boots I thought! There is also a ping-pong table at the rear, a kids corner and wi-fi available free.I really admire people who start up a new business in these difficult financial times, but I think this couple could do well as The Rook is situated almost opposite the village car park, next to the public toilets, and adjacent to the foot path leading to Dovedale.
I certainly wish them well, and look forward to my next visit.To learn more about me and to see all my e-book just click here
January 2, 2013
Colliers Wood - Moorgreen - Nottinghamshire
http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Coal has been mined in this area for nearly 700 years, and the monks from nearby Beauvale Priory held rights to the mineral. (See previous blog about Beauvale Priory.) It was possible to get coal from shallow workings and more than 100 shafts were sunk in the area in the last 200 years.
The site of the park was once home to Moorgreen Colliery. It was opened by Barber, Walker and Company in 1865, when three shafts were sunk and coal production began in 1871. It could produce more than one million tons of coal per year. It closed in 1985.
In 1991 the Greenwood Community Forest was started with the aims of restoring green cover, developing opportunities for public access in rural areas and encouraging more public knowledge regarding the environment. This old pit site was an obvious choice for redevelopment, and whilst only quite small does endeavour to re-create the typical landscape that was present prior to large scale mining operations. Consequently there are small native species copses set in grassland meadows, and the brook that originally ran through the site has been represented by two interlinked ponds.
Just outside the boundary of this delightful area I spotted this striking image, quoting words from DH Lawrence's famous novels, as he grew up in this area, and was familiar with the mine. It is now in need of urgent restoration.
Altogether a delightful place for a stroll and I look forward to revisiting in the near future.
blog links For more about my ebooks just click here
Coal has been mined in this area for nearly 700 years, and the monks from nearby Beauvale Priory held rights to the mineral. (See previous blog about Beauvale Priory.) It was possible to get coal from shallow workings and more than 100 shafts were sunk in the area in the last 200 years.The site of the park was once home to Moorgreen Colliery. It was opened by Barber, Walker and Company in 1865, when three shafts were sunk and coal production began in 1871. It could produce more than one million tons of coal per year. It closed in 1985.
In 1991 the Greenwood Community Forest was started with the aims of restoring green cover, developing opportunities for public access in rural areas and encouraging more public knowledge regarding the environment. This old pit site was an obvious choice for redevelopment, and whilst only quite small does endeavour to re-create the typical landscape that was present prior to large scale mining operations. Consequently there are small native species copses set in grassland meadows, and the brook that originally ran through the site has been represented by two interlinked ponds.
Just outside the boundary of this delightful area I spotted this striking image, quoting words from DH Lawrence's famous novels, as he grew up in this area, and was familiar with the mine. It is now in need of urgent restoration.Altogether a delightful place for a stroll and I look forward to revisiting in the near future.
blog links For more about my ebooks just click here
December 23, 2012
'Vanilla Kitchen' - Tideswell - Derbyshire
http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
'Vanilla Kitchen' is one of my most favourite cafes! Situated in the sleepy hamlet of Tideswell in the Derbyshire Peak District it's well worth turning off the busy A623 and going down the twisting road to the village. Although the interior is quite small, there is an ice cream palour in the main building, which also acts as overflow seating.
Vanilla Kitchen opened in April 2006, and it's clearly recognised as a place well worth seeking out, especially by walkers and visitors to the area. (Last time I went 17 very muddy cyclists had just arrived for a much-needed hot drink and a snack!)
They concentrate on producing good, unfussy home cooked food using fresh, local ingredients suitable for the season. (They're soups are just breath-taking, and well worth the journey!) There is always a good choice of vegetarian dishes, and there's also food for those with a gluten/dairy intolerance.
Particularly popular is the organic and Fairtrade coffees, although my weakness is for their swirling hot chocolate! This time I had a cheese and ham panini, with a bowl of chips, and it was so filling I didn't need anything else for the rest of the day!
Now I'm just looking forward to my next visit to this delightful establishment.
blog linksFor a full list of my e-books just click here
'Vanilla Kitchen' is one of my most favourite cafes! Situated in the sleepy hamlet of Tideswell in the Derbyshire Peak District it's well worth turning off the busy A623 and going down the twisting road to the village. Although the interior is quite small, there is an ice cream palour in the main building, which also acts as overflow seating. 
Vanilla Kitchen opened in April 2006, and it's clearly recognised as a place well worth seeking out, especially by walkers and visitors to the area. (Last time I went 17 very muddy cyclists had just arrived for a much-needed hot drink and a snack!)They concentrate on producing good, unfussy home cooked food using fresh, local ingredients suitable for the season. (They're soups are just breath-taking, and well worth the journey!) There is always a good choice of vegetarian dishes, and there's also food for those with a gluten/dairy intolerance.
Particularly popular is the organic and Fairtrade coffees, although my weakness is for their swirling hot chocolate! This time I had a cheese and ham panini, with a bowl of chips, and it was so filling I didn't need anything else for the rest of the day!
Now I'm just looking forward to my next visit to this delightful establishment.
blog linksFor a full list of my e-books just click here
December 18, 2012
Carnfield Hall - Alfreton - Derbyshire
http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Carnfield Hall dates from the 15th and 16th centuries, and has had quite a chequered history.
I have visited it occasionally over the years, when owner James Cartland allowed public tours. He had first seen the impressive building in 1987 and then spent the following 22 years restoring it, replacing broken roof tiles and updating the ancient plumbing. He used to claim that it was then in better condition than it had been for the previous 400 years.
His original purchase had only included two acres of parkland, but in 2005 he was able to buy the 50 acres of park dirctely in front of the Elizabethan house.
Then in 2008 he bought another 38 acres of ancient woodlands and fields, making this a secure area against future development. It is certainly hard to believe that the M1 is less than a mile away.
In 2011 Graham Oliver and his partner Heidi took on Carnfield Hall, also purchasing the adjoining land and buildings, so once again the original coach houses are part of the estate.
I visited during a Christmas Craft Fayre when every room had been filled with stall holders. I was absolutely delighted that photography was allowed, for the woodwork, tapestries and ancient stone flooring are most impressive.
I intend to watch their informative web page and look forward to attending future exciting events associated with this Elizabethan mansion.
Familiar with the Hardwick Love Story? Read for free by clcking here
Carnfield Hall dates from the 15th and 16th centuries, and has had quite a chequered history.
I have visited it occasionally over the years, when owner James Cartland allowed public tours. He had first seen the impressive building in 1987 and then spent the following 22 years restoring it, replacing broken roof tiles and updating the ancient plumbing. He used to claim that it was then in better condition than it had been for the previous 400 years.
His original purchase had only included two acres of parkland, but in 2005 he was able to buy the 50 acres of park dirctely in front of the Elizabethan house. Then in 2008 he bought another 38 acres of ancient woodlands and fields, making this a secure area against future development. It is certainly hard to believe that the M1 is less than a mile away.
In 2011 Graham Oliver and his partner Heidi took on Carnfield Hall, also purchasing the adjoining land and buildings, so once again the original coach houses are part of the estate.
I visited during a Christmas Craft Fayre when every room had been filled with stall holders. I was absolutely delighted that photography was allowed, for the woodwork, tapestries and ancient stone flooring are most impressive.I intend to watch their informative web page and look forward to attending future exciting events associated with this Elizabethan mansion.
Familiar with the Hardwick Love Story? Read for free by clcking here
December 11, 2012
The Eating House - Calver - Derbyshire
http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
This little resturant is situated at the end of the Derbyshire Craft Centre adjacent to the A623. There is a small seating area for 15 fenced off within the car park, and inside there's seating for 35.
The whole establishment is small and somewhat crowded, but that is more than made up for the excellent food.
Homemade soups and fresh quiche are all made to their own recipes, and there's a wide range of delicious cakes.
Last time I called in there was Kedegree on the menu, something you certainly don't see being offered very often. It consisted of spiced basmati rice with smoked haddock, boiled eggs and fresh cream, and was piping hot and absolutely delicious. It was served with a dressed, susbstantial salad, and cost £6.95.
My friend opted for Bubble and Squeak, with poached eggs, home-baked ham and homemade chutney which cost £7.95.
I really like this place and it's well worth diverting in order to visit!
blog links
To see my e-books just click here
This little resturant is situated at the end of the Derbyshire Craft Centre adjacent to the A623. There is a small seating area for 15 fenced off within the car park, and inside there's seating for 35.
The whole establishment is small and somewhat crowded, but that is more than made up for the excellent food.Homemade soups and fresh quiche are all made to their own recipes, and there's a wide range of delicious cakes.
Last time I called in there was Kedegree on the menu, something you certainly don't see being offered very often. It consisted of spiced basmati rice with smoked haddock, boiled eggs and fresh cream, and was piping hot and absolutely delicious. It was served with a dressed, susbstantial salad, and cost £6.95.
My friend opted for Bubble and Squeak, with poached eggs, home-baked ham and homemade chutney which cost £7.95.I really like this place and it's well worth diverting in order to visit!
blog linksTo see my e-books just click here
December 7, 2012
Wentworth Woodhouse - Rotherham - Yorkshire
http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/ +
I'd never heard of Wentworth Woodhouse until I read 'Black Diamonds' by Catherine Bailey. This absolutely fascinating book is subtitled 'The Rise and Fall of an English Dynasty' and tells the story behind this incredible building.
Subsequently I rushed over, and stood in the 250 acre parkland gazing at the imposing frontage, which was strictly private.
However, a recent talk by Catherine Bailey about her latest book revealed that Wentworth Woodhouse was now open for tours, and I couldn't wait to find out more! Consequently I booked onto a tour, and it felt really exciting to be able to drive through the gates, and right up to the front door.
Unfortunately no photography was allowed inside the House, stating it was a private home, which actually didn't seem to apply to the part we were allowed to visit, and was a big disappointment.
We started by going through the amazing The Pillared Hall, which was certainly impressive, before mounting the stairs at the end. We then saw an excellent model which gave some indication of the sheer size of this huge place. The East Front is over 600 feet long, twice the size of Buckingham Palace, and the buildings cover more than three acres of land. It was built by the first Marquess of Rockingham about 1630.
It has had a chequered history but has remained in the hands of the Fitzwilliam family until 1989, although following World War II parts were leased to the Local Education Authority for use as a teacher training college. Mr Wensley Haydon-Baillie owned it for 10 years, and then in 1999 it was bought by Mr Clifford Newbold and his family, who must be spending a fortune, as they plan to restore it to its former glory.
Most of the rooms we visited we in the process of being restored, and there was little in the way of fixtures or fittings.
My favourite was the The Marble Saloon which is 60 feet square and 40 feet high. The Gallery is supported by 18 Ionic fluted pillars in scagliola, as are the pillars above. Particularly striking is the beautiful marble floor which reflects the plasterwork in the ceiling.
The tour only last about 40 minutes, so at £15 per person was quite pricey. It was also taken at quite a brisk pace, with several, albeit easy, sets of stairs, but making the tours unsuitable for the disabled or those with mobility problems.
I can't wait to return in a year's time to see the progress that been made, as the plans at the moment are to include a luxury hotel, a conference centre and a museum.
blog links
For more about my e-books just click here
I'd never heard of Wentworth Woodhouse until I read 'Black Diamonds' by Catherine Bailey. This absolutely fascinating book is subtitled 'The Rise and Fall of an English Dynasty' and tells the story behind this incredible building.Subsequently I rushed over, and stood in the 250 acre parkland gazing at the imposing frontage, which was strictly private.
However, a recent talk by Catherine Bailey about her latest book revealed that Wentworth Woodhouse was now open for tours, and I couldn't wait to find out more! Consequently I booked onto a tour, and it felt really exciting to be able to drive through the gates, and right up to the front door.
Unfortunately no photography was allowed inside the House, stating it was a private home, which actually didn't seem to apply to the part we were allowed to visit, and was a big disappointment.
We started by going through the amazing The Pillared Hall, which was certainly impressive, before mounting the stairs at the end. We then saw an excellent model which gave some indication of the sheer size of this huge place. The East Front is over 600 feet long, twice the size of Buckingham Palace, and the buildings cover more than three acres of land. It was built by the first Marquess of Rockingham about 1630.It has had a chequered history but has remained in the hands of the Fitzwilliam family until 1989, although following World War II parts were leased to the Local Education Authority for use as a teacher training college. Mr Wensley Haydon-Baillie owned it for 10 years, and then in 1999 it was bought by Mr Clifford Newbold and his family, who must be spending a fortune, as they plan to restore it to its former glory.
Most of the rooms we visited we in the process of being restored, and there was little in the way of fixtures or fittings.My favourite was the The Marble Saloon which is 60 feet square and 40 feet high. The Gallery is supported by 18 Ionic fluted pillars in scagliola, as are the pillars above. Particularly striking is the beautiful marble floor which reflects the plasterwork in the ceiling.
The tour only last about 40 minutes, so at £15 per person was quite pricey. It was also taken at quite a brisk pace, with several, albeit easy, sets of stairs, but making the tours unsuitable for the disabled or those with mobility problems.
I can't wait to return in a year's time to see the progress that been made, as the plans at the moment are to include a luxury hotel, a conference centre and a museum.
blog links
For more about my e-books just click here
December 3, 2012
Victorian Christmas Market - Matlock - Derbyshire
http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Matlock holds the most wonderful events in the park in the centre of town. (See previous blog)
This time it was the Victorian Christmas Market, which certainly sounded like fun.
We were greeted at the entrance by a very jovial stilt walker, and then it was inside to a large, thankfully heated. marquee. It never fails to amaze me the amount of trouble people take, and many of the stallholders were dressed up, and full of fun
.
Not surprisingly, this skilled glassblower was attracting a lot of attentiion, especially from the delighted children.
The amazing thing was that one marquee led into another, which led into a third! In fact there were so many delightful stalls it was hard not to miss anything! This stall just specialised in Christmas decorations, and seemed to be doing a brisk trade. I particularly liked the way the stalls had been carefully arranged together, so all those raising money for charity were grouped together at one end and covered an interesting range
..
I bought loads of things, including a large chocolate and banana cake, minature mince pies and a jar of local honey. However, my favourite purchase was a little jug, with two matching egg cups bought from the Rainbow Hospice Stall, who I will think of every time I use them.
This was a really delightful, happy event, and I hope they do the same thing next year, as I certainly want to be there!
blog links
For more about me just click here
Matlock holds the most wonderful events in the park in the centre of town. (See previous blog)
This time it was the Victorian Christmas Market, which certainly sounded like fun.
We were greeted at the entrance by a very jovial stilt walker, and then it was inside to a large, thankfully heated. marquee. It never fails to amaze me the amount of trouble people take, and many of the stallholders were dressed up, and full of fun.
Not surprisingly, this skilled glassblower was attracting a lot of attentiion, especially from the delighted children.
The amazing thing was that one marquee led into another, which led into a third! In fact there were so many delightful stalls it was hard not to miss anything! This stall just specialised in Christmas decorations, and seemed to be doing a brisk trade. I particularly liked the way the stalls had been carefully arranged together, so all those raising money for charity were grouped together at one end and covered an interesting range..
I bought loads of things, including a large chocolate and banana cake, minature mince pies and a jar of local honey. However, my favourite purchase was a little jug, with two matching egg cups bought from the Rainbow Hospice Stall, who I will think of every time I use them.
This was a really delightful, happy event, and I hope they do the same thing next year, as I certainly want to be there!
blog links
For more about me just click here
