Nottinghamshire Notes

The Arrow Farm Shop - Steetley - Nottinghamshire

2012-01-12T03:29:00.000-08:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
It was following a lovely walk in Whitwell Woods that I stumbled across The Arrow Farm Shop - and how pleased I was to find it!

Established initially in 1991 in order to sell their potatoes, it has recently been refurbished by the Blagg family who have been farming this land for more than half a century. Situated on the borders of Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and Yorkshire they pride themselves that everything is from a 30 miles radius of the farm, thus being very fresh and cutting down in transportation emissions.

The first thing that strikes you when you enter the large, airy building is how clean and spacious it is. Everything is spotless and really well displayed.

One thing that caught my eye, and which I haven't been before, was this oil refilling station. What a good idea - and I shall certainly be using that in the future!

There is also a most attractive cafe with a comprehensive, and most enticing menu, which prides itself on being made from local produce. I certainly look forward to eat in these attractive surroundings.

This new facility is open an impressive number of hours, from 8am til 6pm Monday til Thursday, as well as Saturday, and then on Fridays it stays open until 7 at night. It's also open on Sundays.

I really liked this place, and look forward to returning in the near future, and certainly wish them every success in the future.

Why not now visit my other blog?

Attenbourgh Nature Centre - Bird Hides - Nottinghamshire

2012-01-09T02:23:00.000-08:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Attenborough Nature Centre is owned and managed by Notts Wildlife Trust and covers some 145 hectares of flooded gravel pits. It is an area of Special Scientific Interest and it has taken some 40 years to recolonise this fascinating area.

I had visited before, and knew there was an efficient, if somewhat small, cafe. However, this time I discovered the bird hides! This one was amazing, with windows round 3 sides, as well as a lot of posters and information about the various birds that might be spotted.

The views out were absolutely stunning, and being so high it was possible to see over a considerable distance.

Of course it was necessary to be fairly able bodied in order to climb the wooden steps up to the bird hide, although they were very safe and sturdy with a good handrail. However, I discovered there was another hide, directly off the main pathway, which would have been accessible to everyone.

Outside this one was a very well stocked bird feeding station, that was in constant use and was giving a lot of pleasure to the many children who were visiting.
I went on a windy, somewhat chilly day, but I look forward to returning to this special place during the coming months.

Why not visit my other blog by clicking here

Charles 1 Coffee House - Newark - Nottinghamshire

2012-01-02T01:47:00.000-08:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/

I just love the town of Newark, particularly all the old buildings which are still in such excellent condition. I couldn't wait to try out this 'Coffee House' which is No 37 - 39 Kirkgate.

This following information is taken from the menue. 'Charles 1 was born in Fife on the 19th of November 1600, the second son of James VI of Scotland and Anne of Denmark. He became heir to the throne on the death of his brother, Prince Henry, in 1612. He succeeded as the second Stuart King of England, in 1625.
The building housing the Charles 1 coffee shop is known as Kirkgate House, which was once the home of Colonel and Lady Leeke. Conlonel Leeke was the commander of the Royalist Forces during the time of the Rnglish Civil War (1642 - 1646)
This listed medieval building has survived for almost 400 years as an excellent example of a 16th century timber framed building'

I went upstairs, using narrow, steep twisting stairs, and the little rooms were full of character. After an excellent meal, I decided this was a place everyone visiting Newark should see.

Why not now visit my other blog by clicking here

Boxing Day Raft Rally, Matlock, Derbyshire

2011-12-28T02:55:00.001-08:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
This is a hugely popular event, with literally thousands of people attending. This year was the 49th year, and it was particularly popular as last year it had to be cancelled because of the icy conditions and a number of whole trees blocking the river.

It was incredible how enterprising folk had been with their design - from a little car, to a train and a garden shed! I was particularly taken with this boat, complete with parasol!

It is organised by the Derbyshire Association of Sub-Aqua Clubs and raises considerable amounts of money for the RNLI, whilst at the same time giving people a huge amount of enjoyment!

The course covers 4 miles and goes from Matlock to Cromford Meadow. The most exciting part is when the flimsy rafts go over the weir just above Masson Mill. It looked incredibly dangerous, but was very heavily stewarded, and apart from being very bruised I would have thought, everyone seemed absolutely fine, and were having a great time!

Live Nativity - Totley Hall Farm - Sheffield

2011-12-22T03:46:00.000-08:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/

I picked up a leaflet about this event in Chesterfield Tourist Information Centre, and as it sounded like fun, I soon had tickets booked!
On arrival the first thing one sees is barns full of sheep and little lambs - all making quite a racket!

<br>T

Then it was inside to the adjacent barn, where there was an impressive collection of dressing-up clothes. There was a small stand full of seats, so everyone got a good view, and at a pen at the side, taking a great interest in all the activities, was Rosie the cow!

Then the story began, with all the children being carefully led so they could take part, whether they were angels, shepherds or wise men.Of course, Mary, played by a very small child in flowing blue robes, arrived on the back of 'Spirit', a very docile donkey!

It was really lovely to see children actually carrying live lambs, and we could certainly hear them in the barn next door.

Afterwards any child could ride on the donkey, under supervision of course. Everyone was told to wash their hands thoroughly at the row of sinks along the wall, before collecting tea, coffee or hot mulled wine. There were also hot mince pies, chocolate shortbread biscuits and soft drinks for the children. They could also visit Father Christmas in his snug little house.

I thought this was all quite wonderful, and was so glad I'd made the effort to attend. The children who took part will long remember their experience of the Nativity story.

Carols by Candlelight - Treak Cliff Cavern - Castleton - Derbyshire

2011-12-05T01:53:00.000-08:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Treak Cavern is the Blue John Mine way up on the cliff above the lovely little town of Castleton. I've written about visiting it, now several years ago, and you can read that blog by clicking here.

This year I went to Carols by Candlelight held deep inside the cavern. There is a steep walk, up quite a lot of steep to just get the entrance to the cavern, and then a lot of steps and narrow passages to get the relatively small cavern used for the carols.

As can be seen by my rather poor photographs, it was extremely dark inside, just lit by candles and lanterns, but that did give a somewhat magical appearance to these amazing spaces. The first thing that happened was the arrival of Father Christmas, who energetically led the singing.

We had all been given laminated carol sheets, and sensible people had brought torches! It was also best to be wearing a hat, as there were a lot of very icy drips falling from the ceiling!

The carols were accompanied by an accordion, and the skilled musician must have been thankful for the gazebo that at least offered some protection to the instrument, as it was pretty wet in there.

There were no seats - we all just crowded together and stood and sang, but it was good fun, and certainly put one in the Christmas spirit! I got the impression that for some people it was definitely part of their annual celebrations.

Then it was outside to discover that we were at the top of the hill and had quite a long walk down to the somewhat basic Entrance building, where hot mince pies and mulled wine was waiting for us.

All definitely good fun!

Now why not visit my other blog Soon Out There?

Lunchtime at the Cathedral - Southwell - Nottinghamshire

2011-11-18T23:21:00.000-08:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/

During the winter months there are events held within this lovely building on a Friday lunchtime. Predominately musical, but also including talks, dance and playlets. I've even seen an interesting DVD about Cuba at one of these events!

They take place from 12.15pm til 1.00 pm, but it's best to arrival early, as hot drinks are available in the transept.

Altogether this is a lovely way to spend a winter lunchtime. The events are free, with just a collecting bowl at the end. Afterwards of course it's nice to walk across to the Minster Tea Shop for one of their excellent lunches, which are all prepared on site, or stroll into the delightful town of Southwell where there are some nice cafes and pubs.

Why not visit my other blog by just clicking here?

Chatsworth - Christmas Decoration 2011 - Derbyshire

2011-11-13T01:18:00.000-08:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Christmas at Chatsworth is a highlight of my calendar and I always really enjoy it. I went at the time the Christmas Market was also on, as I've described in a previous blog.
However, this year it was only on for 3 days, but was still very good, and the smooth, plastic surface and the improved driveway were also much appreciated.

The theme inside the house for this year was 'Deck the Halls: A Visual celebration of carols' and every area depicted a different Christmas favourite. Immediately on entering it was possible to see this striking, gently rotating image of the 3 Ships which was in the middle of the central courtyard.

Above the Great Hall way was a dressing up area, which was proving very popular.

The familiar chapel was unrecognisable, having been turned into 'O Little Town of Bethlehem' and most effective it was too, with this striking cut-out in the centre.

As always I thought it quite wonderful and must have been a great deal of work to create something so marvellous.
This is my video

The decorations will last at Chatsworth until the 23rd December 2011, and are well worth seeing. Normal prices apply.

Whisby Nature Park - Lincolnshire

2011-11-08T02:22:00.000-08:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Whisby Nature Park is west of Lincoln off the A46. It was opened in 1989 and is owned by North Kersteven District Council. It consists of a series of flooded gravel pits, covering some 375 acres, which now include woodland, ponds and grassland to name a few.

It was years since I last visited, and I didn't recognise any of it, such improvements had been made over the years.

One of the big differences was the impressive Natural World Centre which is against the car park, and which was proving very popular when I visited.

Just below this is the start of the paths, and I was particularly taken with the large board that listed all the birds that had been spotted over the last few days - and what an impressive list it was too!

One thing I really liked was the 6 miles of smooth, easy to walk paths, suitable for everyone. No wonder they were so well used.

After strolling round the large lake it was time to explore the Natural World Centre. There was the inevitable large shop, which seemed well stocked and organised. Beside that was a large, and clearly popular, cafe. However, the area that particularly appealed to me was just outside on a narrow, if slightly slippery, balcony overlooking the lake. I couldn't think of a nicer place to enjoy a cup of coffee.

At the end of the shop there was a flight of steps leading to the permanent 'Our Changing World' exhibition which was very interactive, and seemed mainly aimed at children and school parties. There were lots of knobs to turn and buttons to push, and there were informative panels about solar panels, waste disposal and recycling.

I thought this the most marvellous place, and can't wait to return and spend more time exploring the various lakes and ponds, and finding the bird hides. Certainly a treat to look forward to in the future.

Pipes in the Peaks - Thorpe - Derbyshire

2011-11-03T02:32:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
This amazing place is owned and run by David Thorp. As a small boy he had had seen the WurliT'zer at the Tower Ballroom in Blackpool it had been his dream to own such an instrument.
The opportunity came in 1990 when he heard about a Mr H. Jackson of Castle Donnington. This gentleman had purchased the organ from the ABC, Derby for the princely sum of £300, way back in 1965. After a lot of negotiations, and about 19 trips in a small van, the organ was carefully removed and put into storage at Dave's garage.
It took another ten years to complete the restoration of every component of the organ, and to construct a building specifically to act as a Showroom to house both cars, the Compton and other 'vintage' curios.
The result is quite breathtaking - and in fact hard to describe!
I was initially quite apprehensive about a concert in a garage - in fact it sounded so strange, and was even more puzzled on seeing people queuing an hour and a half before the concert was due to begin. Certainly there were hundreds of people, but fortunately there is a large car park in an adjacent field.

The organ rose majestically out of the floor, and the show was huge fun, as, in addition to the organ, dotted around were various instruments which all played by some sort of electrical wizardry. Fun seemed to be the key word, and clearly everyone was having a marvellous time, with a sign-along, words on scene, complimentary tea and biscuits in the interval, and port-a-loos!

'Pipes in the Peaks' is certainly an experience, and I could clearly see why it is so very popular. I look forward to returning - now a Big Band concert would be something special!

Whirlowbrook Hall Gardens - Sheffield - Yorkshire

2011-10-30T00:56:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/

Whirlowbrook Hall was built in 1906 by SirWalter Benton-Jones, in a leafy suburb some five miles outside the city centre of Sheffield. It is situated on the edge of the Peak District National Park on the A635, the Sheffield to Hathersage road, so the views are asbolutely stunning.
When I enquired, other visitors said it had been used as the temporary home for circuit judges, although there is disappointingly little about its history on the web. It is now operated by Fretwell-Downing, a family-owned business which also runs The Maynard in Grindleford, Derbyshire.

This impressive house stands in 39 acres of landscaped gardens, which incredibly are open to the public. There is adequate car parking, and I arrived by bus which are fairly frequent from the city centre.

There is a small cafe within the Hall, but it has limited opening hours, especially during the week and when I went, on a chilly autumn day, they had run out of soup! Also on returning mid-afternoon, the floor was covered with discarded food - something I absolutely hate!

I had gone to this place, for the first time, in order to attend on the marvellous events organised through Sheffield's excellent 'Off the Shelf' programme, and spent an enjoyable afternoon learning about fungi with the fabulous Patrick Harding. (It's well worth travelling considerable distances to hear this enthusiastic fellow!)

However, it was the gorgeous grounds that fascintated me, and I can't wait to go back and really have a good look at such a magical place. It must be different at every season of the year, but it's hard to imagine that it's ever more beautiful than in autumn.

Baltic Cebtre fir Contemporary Art - Newcastle/Gateshead - Northumberland

2011-10-25T02:34:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/

The Baltic was opened in July 2002 as an International Centre for Contemporary Art and since then has welcomed over 2.5 million visitors. The imposing building, standing on the bank of the River Tyne, was bult in the 1950's to a 1930's design, for Rank Hovis. The original architecture can most clearly be seen from the side view of this imposing building.

The main entrance is from the lovely Millennium Bridge.

Immediately on the right as you go in is a cafe. This is woefully too small, with pretty awful service, although the food is quite good once it eventually arrives.

Across the passageway is the obligatory shop, which again is too small, although quite well stocked if somewhat pricey.

Upstairs, mainly accessed via glass lifts, are several floors displaying art.
See my previous blog
for one of the best events I've seen there.

Apart from stunning views from the lift the spacious floors are also ideal viewing platforms to see along the River Tyne.

Altogether this is a place that is an experience to visit.

Please see my other blog just click here

Hartington Hall - Derbyshire

2011-10-21T03:01:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/

Hartington Hall is up a steep hill just outside the delightful hamlet of Hartington. Documentation recording the birth of Robert Bateman in 1470 shows links with a building on this site, and a 'new' hall was built by Hugh Bateman in 1611. Extensions were added in the 1800's, making this a most impressive building.

Inside there is a wonderful period feel about the place. I loved this room with its limestone floor and magnificent central fireplace. Some of the lovely panelling is the original 17 century, as is one of the plain oak beams that crosses the room.

All the downstairs rooms are small and cosy. and really most appealing.

The Hall opened as a Youth Hostel in early 1934, one of the earliest Youth hostels in the country. The Derbyshire Countryside magazine wrote in its January 1934 edition:
'It is hoped to open as a Youth Hostel in good time for Easter with electric light, central heating, fine oak panelling and many examples of magnificent cratsmanship in woodwork and ironwork, it is expected that Hartington Hall will become a great influence on the youth that will use it.'

It now has 132 beds: 84 in the Main House, 40 in The Barn and 8 in the Coach House. There are 34 bedrooms, including 5 single, 6 twin or double and 18 family rooms. 18 bedrooms are fully en-suite. Anyone of any age is welcome to stay and Hartington Hall is open 8am - 11.30pm 7 days a week, 50 weeks a year.

I have never stayed at Hartington Hall, although it did look very appealing. I spotted a billboard in the village advertising the fact that the cafe is open to non-residents, so I walked up the hill for a cup of tea. I was so glad I did - it was a truly fascinating visit.

Why not visit my other blog? Soon Out There

Walled Garden - Scampston - Yorkshire

2011-10-18T03:37:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Scampston Hall is off the A64, north of Malton between Rillington and Knapton. When I visited the House wasn't open, so that's a treat to look forward to in the future.

However, the Walled Garden was open, and although it was mid-October, which hardly seemed an ideal time, it looked absolutely spectacular. The garden, which was used for growing Christmas trees and grazing sheep when Sir Charles and Lady Legard began the transformation at the beginning of this century. They used garden designer Piet Oudolf, who won a Gold Medal and 'Best in Show' at Chelsea in 2000.

One of the first things that struck me was how every plant bore a striking, easy to read label - a real rarity I thought. It was possible to purchase, for 50p, a plant guide, so if you were knowledgeable about such things, this place would be paradise.

It was immediately obvious that evergreens, conifers and grasses played an important place in this four and a half acre site. I had never seen yews trimmed like this, and they were really effective reflecting in the pond.

I also loved all the grasses, swaying gently in the breeze and planted in great, attractive swathes.

There was also an attractive fountain playing the middle of the garden, and even in October, an impressive vegetable patch which supplies the house and restaurant with a range of fresh fruit, vegetables and flowers.

I also enjoyed the afternoon tea I had at Scampston!

I can well imagine that this lovely place is different at every season of the year, and am really looking forward to returning, especially now I've figured out how to find it, as the signage is just awful. In fact it was quite a mystery to me how they get any visitors other than locals!

Please visit my other blog by clicking here

The Willow Works - Beckingham - North Nottinghamshire

2011-10-13T23:51:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Beckingham is a little hamlet on the edge of the River Trent. It's not somewhere I would normally have reason to visit, but during wonderful Heritage Weekend places that are not normally open to the public, become available. And this is how I ended up visiting the restored Willow Works Open Day.

This simple brick building is the only one to survive from what was once one of the main cottage industries of Beckingham. Many villagers were employed both at the Willow Works and from home to create such items as baskets, fencing, hampers, fish traps, lobster pots, yokes, cricket bats, clothes pegs and hurdles.

It is thanks to the grants from various bodies that it has been possible to save this fine building from total collapse and create a multi-functional amenity. It has only taken a year to re-roof and re-point, install new windows and doors, and add new vents in the roof in keeping with the original style. In addition bat boxes and owl nests have been created in the loft area.

More than 350 people visited on the open day and were able to tour the building which housed an impressive exhibition. The offices will be the base of the Trent Vale Landscape Partnership during 2012, while the local history group will be permanently based there. The first floor function room can be hired out for meetings, conferences, weddings, groups etc. In addition partners such as the RSPB and Wildlife Trust will use it as a base to offer training programmes, while Groundwork hope to offer learning facilities to local school groups.

Sheffield Manor Lodge - South Yorkshire

2011-10-10T02:57:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Sheffield Manor Loge was built about 1516. It was within one of the largest deer parks in Britain and was home to George Talbot, 4th Earl of Shrewsbury. Sadly it was largely dismantled in 1706 and again in 1839. In 1953 the Duke of Norfolk Estate leased the site to Sheffield City Council. Green Estate, which seems the most brilliant organisation, is now developing the site with many exciting future plans.

I visited as part of Sheffield's marvellous 'Off the Shelf' weeks, and went on an organised tour, which is the ideal way to enjoy this most interesting site.

Over the centuries many notable people stayed in what must have been a most impressive establishment, including Cardinal Wolsey in 1529, although we were told he had dysentry during his stay and was poorly for 18 days, and then he rode to Leicester, and not to surprisingly, considering his weakened condition, fell off his horse and died.

The most striking of the the remaining buildings was undoubtedly the Turret House, and being on an organised tour it was an unexpected pleasure to 'meet' Bess of Hardwick, complete with strings of pearls!

After an excellent monolgue about her incredible life, it was then possible to go upstairs and see the fantastic plaster ceilings that have survived for centuries, as well as examples of the fine tapestry work carried out by Mary Queen of Scots who was imprisoned here for some 14 years

The whole of my visit the rain drizzled down and everyone was seriously wet, but I didn't think it mattered one jot, it was all so interesting.

It was also so good to hear about the exciting plans for the future of this site and now I just can't wait to go back and visit other areas, and watch the development of this quite lovely place.

St Mary's Church - Whitby - North Yorkshire

2011-10-06T02:01:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/

St Mary's Anglican Church stands next to the famous Whitby Abbey and is at the top of 199 steps. Fortunately there is also a car park on top of the cliff, although it is still quite a walk to the church, along a stoney, uneven path.

The interior of the church is breathtaking - like stepping back in time and much is 18th century. Also immediately the visitor comes across this striking stove, and the notice reads "This stove is still used for the only form of heating for the Nave."

All the pews are of the box variety, with little entry doors. The quality of them varied considerably, and to my surprise many were quite comfy looking with rich green upholstery!

There is a very striking, and I should think quite rare, Triple Decker pulpit, dating from 1778. I believe the top deck was for the preacher, with a sounding board above, so all the congregation could hear his words. The next level is for the Reader when using the Bible, and the lowest is for the Parish Clerk.

There is also a chest against the far wall. The sign above it reads"Whitby Parish Chest - The Chest is over 300 years old. It has three locks, one for the Rector and one for each churchwarden. In 1743 it contained the Church Plate and Parish records when it was stolen and thrown over the cliff by robbers. The chest was recovered but without its contents."

I thought this the most marvellous church to visit and should be a must for anyone going to Whitby

Why not visit my new Web Page Soon Out There

Whitby Abbey - North Yorkshire

2011-10-04T02:53:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Whitby Abbey stands on the headland overlooking the town, and it is clear to see why it was, and in fact still is, a navigation marker for shipping.

The original Anglo-Saxon Monastery was destroyed during a Viking raid in 867, but one of William the Conqueror's knights refounded it in the late 1070s. By 1220, the Norman Church was proving inadequate for the many pilgrims and construction of the present, most impressive, building was begun.

The site is now run by English Heritage and included in the admission price is a really excellent audio guide, using different actors' voices and sound effects. However, I would have liked seating near the various information points - it was very hot standing listening, and it was tempting to skip parts, which was a pity as it was so well produced.

At the side of the Abbey is the mansion built by the Cholmley family, using stone plundered from the monastery! This building has now been imaginatively turned into a Visitor Centre cum museum.

Whilst several of the exhibits were interactive, and most interesting I was disappointed that so many carried 'Out of Order' signs.

I also thought the signs at the site were very inadequate. Just a few arrows pointing visitors in the right direction would have been appreciated. (I managed to go round the exhibition the wrong way - and never thought I'd leave the Visitor Complex as I couldn't find the exit!)

This is the most amazing place to visit, and that the stone work is still in such excellent condition is just outstanding.

Chatsworth - 'Beyond Limits' Sculpture Exhibition - Derbyshire

2011-09-30T02:18:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
This is an annual delight, and I really look forward to it, and this year was certainly up to standard, although with the marvellous weather everyone was out enjoying this special place, and I really wished I'd bought my tickets on line!

What I love is the way the pieces are so beautifully placed within the gardens of Chatsworth, so each is not only displayed to the best advantage, but often also seen in conjunction with other sculptures.

As will be seen from the following pictures, I often included people - in fact I often wait for folk to arrive and be in just the right position! I think this is the only way to give a size perspective, as a lot of these sculptures are really large.

This one, titled 'Miu' by Nadim Karam, was high up and really striking, although it was only when people approached it did I realise that in fact if had a mirrored surface.

Another one that I thought needed people present was this very striking golden ring, which I really liked. It was titled Riu' and was created by Pep Sirvent.

Within the Sensory Garden, most suitably, was this really gorgeous nude that I really loved, she was so very beautiful.

As expected the pair of sculptures that were attracting the most attention were those created by Damien Hirst. They stood alone at the end of the Canal Pond, which was a position that displayed them in all their glory.

Up close they were really lovely - both 'Myth' and this one which is 'Legend'.

Everything about this exhibition was a real delight - it's just a pity that it's a year before it happens again!

Biddulph Grange 2011 - Staffordshire

2011-09-27T02:54:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
I last visited this property in May 2007, so it was definitely turn for a return trip. The first thing I noticed was that things had changed. The lovely, thin pillar trees that had been such a feature in the Italian garden had gone, I think to be replanted near 'Egypt'!

The area I most wanted to see was in the Chinese Garden which I could well remember as being absolutely stunning. Now the National Trust has recently carried out restoration work on the decorative dragon parterre with new turf and fine fiery red gravel. It looked absolutely marvellous.

Something else I think I'd missed last time was the audio visual room which was tucked away at the side of the house, and which was most informative.
Going in autumn meant the dahlias, clearly a feature of this lovely property, were at their absoutely best.

There is a cafe at this National Trust property but there's a very small selection available - baked potatoes seemed about the most exciting thing when I was there, although the cakes looked quite good.

This is a totally magical garden and well worth a visit.

I've just started a new blog Soon Out Here - why not take a look?

Hayfield Country Show & Sheep Dog Trials - Derbyshire

2011-09-21T23:27:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Hayfield is in the High Peak area of Derbyshire, so is absolutely breathtaking. The Show is on the 2 days, and covers just about everything. Apart from the large number of stands there was a marquee full of high quality crafts, another devoted entirely to food, and of course refreshment areas.

The range of activities on offer, considering this is not an excessively expensive show, is really impressive, and it was hard to see everything! I particularly enjoyed Ben Potter's Bird Display, never having seen vultures being used in this way before. (I was just sorry it was hard to adequately video their spectacular flight!)

I also really enjoyed Joseph's Amazing Racing Pigs - completely daft, but hugely popular!

However, for me one of the main attractions was the Sheep Dog Trials, which is something I really love, and could watch for hours! Fortunately straw bales had been placed round the area designated for this activity, and it was amazing how well the dogs coped considering all the noise from the show going on only yards away. In this video the handler has to divide the sheep into two equal groups of three each, and keep them apart - clearly something that went against the insticts of the sheep!

Altogether this was a most entertaining day although I did find the signs for the town poor and had a struggle to find the place! Also it is an extremely steep venue - and when it's damp as it was this year (2011) the site is extremely slippery (straw on the public paths would have been nice!) With such a difficult site it does mean that this is a show which is virtually impossible for those with mobility problems.

Hassop Station - Derbyshire

2011-09-19T03:15:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Hassop is right on the edge of the Monsal Trail which since the tunnels have recently been reopened has become a magnet for walkers and cyclist (see my previous blog).

There has been a book shop in the old Hassop railway station for years, but sadly it closed a bit back and then stood empty for many months. Recently I was delighted to discover that new owners have both taken it on and totally transformed it!

From the outside it looks much as it did before - with stalls full of books, and a few tables scattered about. The only thing that seemed different were the masses of cars in the double car park - charged for walkers, free close to the book shop.

Inside the interior had been transformed, predominately into a very nice, and clearly much-used cafe. Open from 9 - 5 seven days a week, it specialises in using local produce and is fully licensed.

I was most impressed with the extensive, and most appealing menu.

However, I was pleased to see there was still an area being used as a book shop.

There is certainly extensive seating, both inside and out. This narrow terrace directly overlooks the Monsal Trail, and anyone walking by would definitely be attracted by the smell of bacon butties!

At the end there is a cycle hire shop which was clearly very popular and appeared well stocked.

As I haven't cycled since I was a child - a very long time ago - I was rather doubtful about this, although I was pleased to see that they stocked electric bikes. This sounded more like me, or perhaps I could manage these adult trikes! Certainly food for thought - especially as I think this will be a nice place I shall visit quite often - if only for a meal or a snack

Penny Farthing Racing - Matlock - Derbyshire

2011-09-13T03:27:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Matlock is a delightful town situated just 9 miles south west of Chesterfield. It is cut in two by the River Derwent.

My favourite place by far is the really delightful park that runs along the side of the main road - so it's hard to miss. Opened in 1911 to commemorate the coronation of King George V it has bowling greens, a very popular children's boating lake, a minature railway, tennis court and a much used skateboard park. In addition there is a cafe and ticket office, as well as a sensory garden and delightful floral display beds.

As though this isn't enough this delightful area also hosts numerous special events and I was amazed to discover there was to be Penny Farthing Racing on the park! It was extremely well organised - with informative loud speakers, electronic time boards and a well-marked route that went down the side of the river, right round the Victorian Band stand, and then down to the boating lake, before competitors raced back to the starting line - all in under two minutes! Just marvellous!
However, I did find it almost impossible to photograph adequately - they were just going so fast!

In addition there were plenty of bicycle-related stalls, and a sport I had never seen before - unicycle hockey - which looked great fun, but must have taken considerable skill

As though all this wasn't enough the beneficiaries of this delightful event were Aqua Boxes, the marvellous charity based in Matlock. It was astounding to see the grubby water, so familiar in much of the Third World, being transformed into a sparkling clean liquid anyone would have been safe to drink.

I enjoyed this event so much and will be certainly be looking out for further activities in this delightful park

Sandringham Garden Tour - Norfolk

2011-09-06T02:06:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Sandringham is the Norfolk Retreat for the Queen and members of her family, but is open to the public for much of the year. I've written blogs before about my enjoyable visits to this lovely place, but recently I had the pleasure of going on a Garden Tour.

Our very experienced Guide gave us the benefit of his very extensive knowledge, both historically and horticulturally, and it was most interesting.

However, what for me was the most exciting part was reaching the far end of the garden, and having a small door unlocked, so we could cross over the public road and enter the Walled Garden - it all felt so secret and very special.

After carefully crossing quite a busy road, we approached a much more impressive set of gates, which were duly unlocked for our benefit.
Inside the garden was in two sections, divided by this main path through the middle. I particularly liked the area on the right, which was full of lovely flowering plants. This shot was taken from the little summer house in the corner of the garden.

We then strolled down to the other garden which was nearer to the Head Gardener's House. This is now let as holiday accommodation - what a simply marvellous place to stay!

I loved this tour and thought it well worth the additional £2.50! Whilst it's lovely to stroll round the extensive grounds it's so much more special with a knowledgeable guide, and I really recommend this very special experience.

Felbrigg Hall - Norfolk

2011-09-02T03:49:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Felbrigg Hall is south-west of Cromer and is a real hidden gem. It was originally the home to the Felbrigg family, but was bought by John Wyndham in the mid 15th century. Consequently it is a fine Jacobean home of a country gentleman rather than a stately home or palace, and this I thought was what made it so delightful.

This is one of the reception rooms - beautifully proportioned with high ceilings and lovely windows looking over a vast parkland.

Here is the lovely dinning room and I do like the way it's all set out ready for a real dinner party, with even the menu available to view.
Upstairs the delights continue, and I found it all fascinating. This was such a lived-in home.

What was also interesting was seeing areas like the kitchen, with all it's gleaming copper pans.

Of course it always enhances my visit when non-flash photography is allowed!

Some distance from this lovely home is the beautifully maintained walled garden. It was hard to imagine that it ever looks lovely than in autumn, for in the first week in October it was absolutely stunning.
I absolutely loved my visit to Felbrigg Hall and just wished I had more time so I could have explored some of the 1,760 acres (approximately 7 square kilometres) of parkland. Definitely a delight to look forward to in the future.

This is a National Trust property

Did you know that oil was extracted from under Sherwood Forest during World War II. Read my fascinating booklet by clicking here

Cauldwell Mill - Rowsley - Derbyshire

2011-08-31T23:56:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
There has been a mill here on the River Wye for at least 600 years. Situated in the hamlet of Rowsley it's on the A6 between Matlock and Bakewell, it's just where you turn to Chatsworth. There a small car park.

The Mill was originally built by John Cauldwell in 1874 under a lease from the Duke of Rutland. Then there were 8 mill stones grinding flour, and 3 for animal feed. The area is now Grade II* and the array of buildings have been put to other uses.

One of my favourites is the glass blowers - that skillfully create the most wonderful things, and use quite a lot of gold in their work. Who couldn't fall in love with this?

There is also a little gallery selling original art work, mainly featuring birds and animals and the wonderful Derbyshire countryside. There is also a large range of greeting cards.

As you would expect in such a place, there is an outlet selling a range of flours - increasingly popular with so many people having bread making machines these days. It's certainly my favourite place to stock up.

In one of the buildings orginally used to store the grain it a gift shop, absolutely packed with the most amazing array of objects - talk about something for everyone! There's ceramics, toys, books, cards, even hand made socks from America - I just love it, and have bought several really unusual gifts from this shop!

However, the main reason I stop a lot at Cauldwell is the quite wonderful resturant - I think one of the best places to eat in this part of Derbyshire. It was established in 1987 and everything, including the delicious bread is made on site using fair trade produce.

The building itself is a delight. Construced from wood from an old Scottish corn mill with the seating tables and counter coming from a local church! Even the floor has been recycled - originally being a Derbyshire cellar!

The only problem is trying to decide to have from the extensive, delicious menu. This is wild mushroom pate salad - and it was as good as it looks!
I love going to Cauldwell. It can be quite wet getting from the car park along the path, and before reaching the mill the ground is covered with large, somewhat uneven cobbles. I did see a lady on crutches really struggle along here. However, it is possible for the disabled to park at the far end, near the flour shop, and from here it's quite flat.

I certainly recommend this most delightful place

Did you know that oil was extracted from under Sherwood Forest during World War II. Read my fascinating booklet by clicking here

Secret Gardens of Bakewell - Derbyshire

2011-08-28T23:51:00.001-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
This events appears to be an annual fund raising activity for Oxfam, but this was the first year I'd spotted it. Open from 2 - 6pm on a sunny Sunday it was a grand way to spend an afternoon, and clearly hundreds of other people thought the same, as it was really crowded.

I started by catching the handy free Community Bus from outside the Information Centre in the middle of the town. As it turned out to be a very steep climb I was really glad I'd done this!

One of first things that struck me was how high we were, with the most marvellous views across the lovely Derbyshire countryside, and also what an unlikely terrain it was to create a garden! Clearly the good folk of Bakewell were undeterred for the gardens were stunning - ranging from tiny front gardens to ones that almost qualified as small parks!Fancy having a garden that is large enough to have a mature tree like this - just marvellous

On the other hand, other people had the most unlikely sites, but had still managed to create lovely gardens.

By now I was definitely ready for a break, and a cup of tea and cake, and All Saints Church were doing a superb job coping with the vast hordes of people queuing through their door.
Altogether this was a really good and enjoyable event. Now I can't wait til next year to do it again - especially as I found it quite impossible to visit all 15 gardens in one afternoon, so there's still lots left to explore and enjoy.

Castle Howard - Yorkshire

2011-08-23T23:51:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Castle Howard is the magnificient house designed by Sir John Vanbrugh between 1698 and 1712. It is situated just 15 miles north east of York, just off the A64, and going down the approach road is worth the trip on its own!

There are extensive, gentle rolling grounds, and in 2011 it won the HHA/Christies 'Garden of the Year' Award.

There are quite a number of impressive buildings and statues dotted around the grounds. This is the mausoleum, which is not open to the public.

There are also a number of eateries, and I had a smoked salad lunch sitting at a table against the lake - just lovely. There is also a little free land train that runs between the entrance, the House and the lake, which is handy as it's quite hilly.

The wonderful house is still the home to the Howard family, and of course one of the things I just loved was the fact that non-flash photography was allowed. Bliss!

One thing I was quite unaware of was the fact that in 1940 a terrible fire broke out in a chimney and destroyed rooms in the basement, principal and upper levels. Fortunately girls from Queen Margaret's School, Scarborough, who had been evacuated to Castle Howard during the war, helped to salvage some of the contents. Eventually the fire service was able to get the blaze under control, but the famous dome had crashed to the floor, destroying Antonio Pellegrini's painting, 'The Fall of Phaeton' which had decorated the underside of the dome since 1712.

In the late 1950's a pioneering technique called photogrammetry was used to help determine the dimensions of the dome, and with the rebuilding came the opportunity to recreate the painting. In 1962 Scott Medd, a Canadian artist, was commissioned to reconstruct Pellegrini's masterpiece, which he did on a scaffold tower 70 feet in the air.
I thought the finished work absolutely marvellous, but hearing the story behind the reconstruction made it that bit more fascinating.

I loved everything about Castle Howard - from the truly magnificient building, the breath-taking rolling Yorkshire countryside and the friendly staff. Who could ask for anything more?
Highly recommended.

Did you know that oil was extracted from under Sherwood Forest during World War II. Read my fascinating booklet by clicking here

Antique & Collectible Show - Newark - Nottinghamshire

2011-08-22T03:23:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Newark's famous Antique & Collectors Fair is held several times a year on the Newark Show Ground, which is some 5 miles from the town centre. To say the site is vast is something of an understatement, as it covers some 84 acres with 4,000 stalls and 44 marquees.

The first thing you have to realise is that it is extremely unlikely that you'll see it all! Also, with so much outside, it did seem to me to be something that is rather weather dependent.

The staggering thing is the sheer variety of goods on offer. I'd expected glorious glassware, delightful ceramics and lovely furniture, and these were all available, but knitting needles, and ships flags! There were even fine leather suitcases!
There were also quite a few eateries, so just about anything was available. My fish and chips were so filling I felt like a snooze afterwards!

This was a really fun day out, as well as being quite an experience. My only criticism would be that whilst it was advertised as being open from 8am til 4pm on the Friday, this wasn't completely true. By 2 pm vans were pouring onto the site and people were frantically packing away. Even the refreshments in the George Stephenson Exhibition Hall, were I went for an afternoon cuppa, was closed. Therefore, it would seem essential to arrive in the morning because by mid afternoon an awful lot had driven away.

Did you know that oil was extracted from under Sherwood Forest during World War II. Read my fascinating booklet by clicking here

Photography Exhibition - Southwell Minster - Nottinghamshire

2011-08-19T23:35:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Southwell Minster is the glorious building to the north of the county, and is well worth a visit at any time. However I recently discovered that an amazing photography exhibition is taking place there.

It contains the work of several emerging British landscape photographers such as Pete Bridgwood, Damien Demolder, Chris Friel, Mark Gould, Jonathan Horrocks, Dav Thomas, Chris Upton and Steve Watkins. (For more about each artist just see the main web page)

The setting for this exhibition couldn't have been more delightful, and when I visited I was fortunate to enough to hear someone gently playing the grand piano, which really added to the experience.

This is a selling exhibition and I wasn't a bit surprised that several of these outstanding landscape pictures had already been sold - they would add an air of tranquility to anyone's home.

Afterwards of course it's always possible to pop across the way to the delightful Minster Coffee shop for their excellent light refreshments, and to visit the shop

This outstanding exhibition continues at the Minster until 31st August 2011, and I thoroughly recommend it.

Headstone Tunnel - Monsal Trail - Derbyshire

2011-08-14T23:17:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
I've written previously about walking part of the newly-opened Monsal Trail (see previous blog), but now I felt it was time to explore some more of this amazing old railway line.

I started at the station that once served Thornbridge Hall. It's so easy walking along what had been an old trackway, and I was particularly pleased to come across these interesting wind-up speakers giving interesting facts about the line.

Soon I was approaching Headstone Tunnel, and it was clear to see the amazing construction that was involved in the construction. In front of the entrance at this end is a galvanised steel arch to protect trail users from falling rock.

The tunnel is 533 yards (487 m) long, with the most marvellous, gentle curve. How did they do that in 1863, without modern technology? Inside it felt surprsingly cool, and it took a while to get used to the gloom, although there is lighting the full length. It is certainly worthwhile to watch out for piles of horse poo and zooming cyclists!
Once out of the tunnel one arrives at Headstone Viaduct, a most impressive feature, which nearly got demolished when the line closed in 1968. Fortunately there was considerable opposition to the plan and in 1970 a preservation order was placed on the structure.

I walked the Headstone Tunnel at a weekend, and in places it was so crowded it was like Piccaddilly Circus in the rush hour! I think it would definitely be better to visit this trail during the week. However, it was good to see so many families out together, with little tots on three wheeler bikes, older members struggling with hire bikes, pushchairs and even a mobility scooter. Clearly opening the tunnels has made this a walk accessible to everyone.

I really enjoyed my visit to the Monsal Head Trail, where the countryside is just breathtaking.

Bradway Tower - Cotswolds

2011-08-12T23:41:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Broadway Tower stands on a hill behind the town, and can be reached either by a steep climb, or, as I did, by car! It was the idea of 18th century landscape designer Capability Brown, and was created for the 6th Earl of Coventry, being completed in 1798.

The location is outstanding and Lady Coventry must have been delighted when she discovered that beacons lit on the hill could be seen from her home in Worcester, some 22 miles (35 km) away!

People like William Morris, Garbriel Rossetti and Edward Burne-Jones used it as a holiday home, and it is said it was Broadway and this Tower that began Morris' campaign for the preservation of historic monuments.

One of the many delights of this place were the herd of deer roaming round the base. Whilst clearly wild, they also quite used to people and it was possible to get some really good photographic shots.
The tower is now in the hands of English Heritage and is open all year round, with an admission price of £4.50 for adults. Exhibitions are located on the three floors, and there's a roof viewing platform. I didn't have time or agility to do this - but it must be spectacular as the tower stands some 1024 feet (312 m) above sea level with a 62 mile radius and it claimed to be possible to see as many as 16 counties.

There is also a car park with a refreshment building - where I bought a painting!

Revesby Country Fair - Lincolnshire

2011-08-08T23:01:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
The vast Revesby Estate is near Horncastle and dates back to pre-Roman times. It's most famous resident was Joseph Banks, who accompanied and financed James Cook on his round the world voyages.

Every year there is a Country Fair held on the estate, and I couldn't wait to visit. The first impression was of how well organised it was, despite the vast numbers attending. With more than 250 trade stands there was everything you could possibly think of, and more. I stood and watched the skilled wood chain operators from GreenScape who specialise in tree surgery etc., but who are now using their considerable skill to raise money for charity.

I also enjoyed watching Dawn Warnock create her wonderful Pet Portraits in Pastels - such skill.
To one side was a large area devoted to everything horsey - including three separate rings all busy with numerous activities like show jumping and judging. All absolutely fascinating to watch and certainly not something you get to see very often.

By now it was lunchtime and the range of food stalls was staggering - definitely something for every taste - from Thai fish cakes to hot pork rolls. I settled on a Cheddar cheese baguette with pickle and 'help yourself salad' and very nice it was too!

Hours had gone by and I still hadn't visited the main arena, so lunchtime was a good chance for a sit down - so nice chairs were provided round the area, an unusual and much appreciated feature. The events in the ring were continuous, and all were excellent, with a good sound system. I enjoyed the Parade of Hounds, and especially liked the fact that the children could enter the ring and touch them. They appeared such gentle, friendly dogs I found it hard to imagine that before the ban these same animals used to tear foxes apart.
The highlight of this year's show was JC Balls 'Dancing Diggers'. I'd seen them in 2007 at the Southwell Ploughing Match in Kirklington and this is my video from that time.

By now I'd been at this marvellous Country Fair for hours but there was still more stalls to see, the marvellous floral displays - with their interesting judges comments, the area devoted to everything to do with dogs, a poultry marquee, and even a couple of alpaca's!

Altogether this was a most marvellous day out - well worth the £20 per car admission. If I had one criticism it would have been the need for more port-a-loos, better maintained. 20,000 visitors is a lot of people!

Now I just have to be patient and wait til next year to do it all over again!

Hidcote - Gloucestershire

2011-08-05T01:45:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Hidcote is a garden owned by the National Trust, fairly near Chipping Campden in the Cotsworlds.
It was created by Lawrence Johnston, who was born in America in 1871. He lived a lot in Paris, and his father was a very wealthy Banker.

His life changed when he attended Trinity College in Cambridge from 1894 til 97, and he appears to have fallen in love with Britain. After completing his degree he went
to Northumberland as a farming pupil, and as soon as possible, in 1900, he became a naturalized British citizen.

By 1904 he's become a member of the Royal Horticultural Society, and was busy borrowing their books! A particular favourite was Thomas Mawson's 'The Art & Craft of Garden Making'. By now his mother Gertrude Winthrop had bought the Hidcote Estate, and Lawrence immediately set about transforming the two 10 acre fields into an impressive, and delightful garden.He also became a plant hunter visiting the Swiss Alps, South Africa and even China, and he generously shared his finds with gardens all over the world. By 1929 the gardens were open to the public 2 or 3 times a year, with an entrance fee of one shilling. All the money raised went to the Queen's Institute of District Nursing. Lawrence by now now was a judge at the Chelsea Flower Show and his garden featured several times in Country Life magazine.

Towards the end of his life Lawrence wanted to donate the gardens to the National Trust, but at that time they only dealt with preserving historic houses. However, a special division was created just for important gardens, and Hidcote was the first.

Lawrence last visited in 1950, preferring his property, also with an impressive garden, in Southern France. He died there in 1958 at the age of 86

I'd wanted to visit Hidcote for a long time, having several times seen it on TV. It certainly is very lovely and I liked the way so much of it is divided into quite small areas, so it was easy to imagine transferring some of the ideas into one's one garden. However, it become very crowded at the mid day and the signage was awful (I wrote to the National Trust!)

Nottingham Riviera - Nottinghamshire

2011-08-03T01:53:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
For the third year it's possible it's possible to spend a day at the beach, and not leave Nottingham, which must be the furthest British city from the sea! The City Council in conjuction with the Mellors Group and Gem 106 have transformed the Old Market Square into something quite wonderful.

More than 250 tonnes of sand, especially selected for its castle-making qualities, has been delivered from a quarry near Mansfield. In addition 600 metres of decking has been laid - all quite a task as the week before the official opening this space was being used for a Food Market!

In addition there are seaside-type stalls selling buckets and spades, postcards and of course ice cream. There's a wonderful inflatable, which has travelled all the way from China, which following the nautical theme, is in the shape of a sinking ship.
The water area has been extended, and there are handy wooden changing huts!

During the 6 weeks of this marvellous event, volleyball and beach football tournaments will be held, together with live music.

The thing that struck me when I visited was how much fun families were having. Nottingham might be an inland city, but that certainly didn't stop the people from thoroughly enjoying a day on the beach.

Sculpture in the Sanctuary 2 - Reg Taylor's Garden Ctnre - Southwell - Nottinghamshire

2011-08-01T06:20:00.001-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
For the second time this excellent Garden Centre has staged an impressive buying Sculpture exhibition in their lovely Swan Sanctuary. (For the first show just see my previous blog)

This time it is a much bigger affair - with 101 sculptors showing over 600 exhibits - and there's definitely something for everyone! Now there are many, smaller works housed inside two of the large greenhouses, and this has proved to be a really excellent exhibit space. This piece is part of a series showing an athlete preparing for a race, and is entitled "Ready, Steady, Go' by Dorothy Brook.

I was also rather taken with 'Cardboard Man' - which is life sized - by Donna Bramall and costs £2,500.

Outside the Sanctuary is always a delight, and I can well see why is it listed in the top 10 tourist attractions in Nottinghamshire. In addition to all the waterfowl, during the exhibition there's a marquee selling refreshments, and what I thought particularly interesting, some of artists actually demonstrating their skill.
The many lakes were the ideal place to display quite a few of the water-oriented sculptures, and very good they looked too!

A couple of sculptures that caught my eye, because I thought them so usual and clever, had been created again by Donna Bramall - obviously an artist I was attracted too! This is Tyre Alligator - and I just love the way the various treads create the texture on the animal - which was life size. It was on sale for £1,950.

This is definitely an event not to be missed and is on at Reg Taylor's Garden Centre from 23rd July - 29th August 2011

Waterways Festival - Burton upon Trent - Staffordshire

2011-07-31T02:07:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
2011 is the 61st annual Inland Waterway's Festival, which this year was held in Burton Upon Trent on the Trent & Mersey Canal. What I particularly like about this event is that it is so well organised, thanks to more than 300 keen volunteers.

As you can see, the number of narrow boats along both sides of the canal was staggering. They were arranged in groups - those for sale, which you could visit - usually by removing your shoes or wearing oversocks - those that people were already living in, and a very interesting selection of historic boats. It was particularly nice that there were information boards about several of these.
I must say they looked most inviting on such a hot day!

In addition to all the interesting things to see along the canal bank there was a very large field given over to exhibits of every kind. I particularly liked the work of skilled painter Phil Walton.

There were a few events in the arena - more would have been nice, but I did enjoy the display involving dray horses. It was surprising to hear that a set of shoes for these lovely beasts costs at least £100, and new ones are needed every 6 - 8 weeks.
In the same area the local firemen put on an impressive display of what happens when you try to put out a chip pan using a little water - scarey or what!

Altogether this was a brilliant day out. I was sorry to read that due to a large number of other commitments during 2012, there will be no similar show next year. However, I shall be looking out for the new location in 2013.

Sandringham Flower Show - Norfolk

2011-07-28T03:24:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Sandringham Flower Show is celebrating its 130th anniversary this year, and is held with permission of Her Majesty The Queen in Sandringham Park.

I had never been before, and the first thing that struck me were the vast crowds! To be honest it was quite off-putting, as it was impossible to move about freely. I therefore headed as fast as was possible over to the marquee where an excellent flower arranging demo was in full swing. This was by a shop called Scent with Love in Hunstanton.

By the time this was over, crowds were lining the route to see the arrival of Prince Charles and Camila, which was clearly a very popular annual event, and people had gathered early to get the best views.

Then after a quick look round the vast number of stalls I made the discovery that the grounds of Sandringham were open - a lovely surprise. They looked a real picture and it was just such a relief to get away from the crowds, and sit on a seat!

The Museum was also included in the price of entry to the Flower Show, and this was really interesting. This is a 1924 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost which was designed by Earl Mountbatten of Burma to his own specifications and was used by him when he was Viceroy and later Governor-General of India (1947 - 1948). The car bears Lord Mountbatten's mascot, a sailor signalling in semaphore. Lord Mountbatten was the uncle of His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.

Then it was time to return to the main show - where one of the things I enjoyed most was this display in the main arena. What particularly impressed me was that Stuart Barnes used only rescue dogs, not the usual specially bred variety, and he used natural training methods learned from his years living in Africa.

Then it was time to look at the Show Gardens. It always amazes me what they manage to achieve in such a small space - and everyone was outstanding. However,this delightful one was created by Paul Welford of Thistlefield Plands & Design and not surprisingly won a Gold Award.

Would I go again? I'm not sure - but probably in a year's time I'll have forgotten the crowds and only remembered all the wonderful plant stalls, brimming marquees and entertaining arena.

Mill Dene Garden, Blockley, Gloucestershire.

2011-07-24T03:31:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
This garden is not far from Moreton in Marsh in the Cotswolds. It is quite a twisting adventure to find it, and car parking is very limited, so I ended up in the narrow lane! Mills on this site date back to the Doomsday Book of 1085, and after quite a chequered history it has been the home of the Dare family since 1964.

This is the sign when you first arrived, and what I particularly loved was the warm, personal welcome, which is always really important to me. I knew at once that this was going to be a special place.

Each visitor is given a plan to follow, and it is quite complicated, as the site is the last place where you would think it was possible to create a garden! Everywhere is on really steep slopes, and at the highest point you are way above the chimney pots of the house!

This is at the start of the adventure, a lovely, quiet tranquil spot.

I also really liked this grotto area - I wonder how they get 'smoke' to rise up in such an impressive manner?

There is of course a stream, flowing from the mill pond, and this was clearly a very popular area for visiting children!

Then it was on to the main part of the garden, which is very steep with somewhat overhung pathways - so not for those less able on their feet. However, the scramble was well worth it, for every part of the garden is really lovely, with of course stunning views across open countryside.Back down on level ground once more it's time to explore the wonderful area around the large mill pond.

It is also possible to get drinks (from a machine) and wrapped cake slices. There is also home-made soup and Ploughman's lunch on offer, which appealed to me more, but not in the middle of the afternoon!

Altogether this was a real fun place to visit - and it was impossible not to be impressed by the sheer amount of dedication and hard work in creating such a wonderful garden from such a very unlikely site.

Thorpe Salvin Garden Trail - Yorkshire

2011-07-24T02:53:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
The delightful little village of Thorpe Salvin is only 4 miles west of Worksop. It appears to have an annual Garden Trail - although I had never been before.

The car park, which was well-manned, was behind Thorpe Salvin Hall. Built in 1570 only one wall remains, but it is still very impressive.

The trail - with handy notes - involved 18 gardens, and also the Norman Church where teas were being served, and there was an interesting display board. I particularly liked the beautifully carved font which was made from marble brought from Caen in Normandy. It is decorated with popular scenes symbolising the passage of nine months ending with the christening. It has been used for centuries to celebrate Baptism.

In addition to the multitude of gardens that were open, there was also a delightful scarecrow trail - which are always such fun. I can never believe people are so imaginative!

Of course, the main attraction was the gardens - and what a huge range there was, varying from small, neat courtyards, to really impressively large patches! Certainly something for everyone.

Even though this is such a small place - population less than 200, the abiding feeling was one of a strong and thriving community, where it must be nice to live.

I was amused that on the information sheet they even gave the date for next year's Garden Trail - it's on Saturday and Sunday 21st and 22nd July, 2012 - definitely dates for the diary!

Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway

2011-07-21T08:11:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
I just love these railway lines restored by very keen volunteers. I was fortunate enough to travel from Winchcombe Station to Cheltenham Race Course Station.

The line was originally built between 1900 and 1906 when it was known as the Honeybourne Line. The line discontinued a passenger service in 1960, and a goods service in 1976.

However, after a great deal of hard work, trains started again in 1984, and it was a most delightful journey - despite the earlier rain.

This line has been having the most awful time with two major collapses of the track bed due mainly to the severe winter weather. The first occured in April 2010 south of Gotherington Halt and the second north of Winchcombe in an area known as 'Chicken Curve'. Somehow they have to raise a million pounds in order to re-open the line - so they definitely need all the help they can get.

It was certainly no hardship to buy a ticket for something this good. I was just sorry I didn't live nearer so I could use the line more often.

Broadway - Cotswolds- Worcestershire

2011-07-19T02:01:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Broadway is the most delightful village, and only 10 miles north west of Stow on the A44. It is said to have one of the longest high streets in Britain. All the buildings are spectacular, dating from Tudor, Stuart and the Georgian period - in fact it's hard to know where to look everywhere is just so delightful.

The buildings are predominately in Cotswold Limestone, which is the most appealing honey colour.

In the past it was a major staging post on the route from Worcester to London, where fresh horses were obtained from one of the many public houses in the village. It is claimed that both King Charles and Oliver Cromwell stayed at the impressive Lygon Arms.

I thought this the most wonderful place - I just can't wait to return!

Heath Well Dressings, scarecrow trail, Church Flower Festival - Derbyshire

2011-07-17T08:12:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Heath is a small village in Derbyshire, and although only 5 miles from Chesterfield, and overlooking the M1 (junction 29 is close by) it appears quite an isolated place. Perhaps that is why there appears to be such a delightfully strong community spirit - which seems to be evident in the annual Well Dressing event.

I thought this depiction was quite outstanding, just look at the swirling water, and the folds of Christ's robes.
This is coupled with the most original collections of scarecrows you can ever imagine - and I just love them!

As though that isn't enough there are also cream teas available in the village hall, together with various stalls selling lovely goodies!

In addition there is a Flower Festival at the church - which is well worth a visit.

Altogether a most delightful place to visit - and highly recommended.

Pilsley - Summer Fete - Derbyshire

2011-07-13T01:40:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Pilsley is the delightful little hamlet across the road from the Chatsworth Farm Shop. Many of the residents have connections with the big house, and the village school was build by Joseph Paxton, and famous garden designer. The delightful stone houses are made from local limestone, and at least one has a plague stating 1753.

I went to see the well dressing and had the delightful surprise of finding the village fete was in full swing. Parking was highly organised, being opposite in a field beyond the Farm Shop. The fete itself was held on the village green.

What I loved the most about this happy event was that it was so old-fashioned! The band played while the children danced round the May Pole - something I haven't seen for years.

There were many other old fashioned stalls too

However, the thing that drew the biggest crowds was a really excellent talk by a skilled chap from Corner Exotics which included a lot of animal holding - which was very popular with both adults and children!

Altogether this was a brilliant, and most enjoyable event and I shall remember that it's always on the Saturday when they have their Well Dressing each year.

Craft Centre - Edwinstowe- Nottinghamshire

2011-07-11T01:44:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
This delightful centre is situated just off the main A614, before you get to Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre. It's a bit tucked away, but well worth the effort to find it. There's a small parking area which is free - and a pay one opposite. The main area is under cover, so no problem with poor weather, and it's also a working site, so craftspeople are always available for a chat - a feature I really like.

The range of crafts available is really impressive - from paintings, candles, glassware and copper, to name a few. I particularly like the umpressive gem shop with it's marvellous array of sparkling crystals. Another real favourite is the photographic shop where you can book to go on an African safari, with a camera. Now that would be a real experience! The cards featuring this talented photographers work can just be seen at the edge of this photograph.

There is also a small cafe selling snacks, drinks and cakes, and it's certainly a pleasant place to stop between shops!

It's easy I think to miss the extension, which is through a small archway, where there are more craft shops, including the coppersmiths.

A shop here that really took my fancy is called 'Simpley Natural' and they sell the most amazing hand made soap, all of which are made on site - so of course the place smells amazing! All the soap products are free from SLS, use the finest raw ingredients which are free from chemicals and where ever possible sourced from ethically minded suppliers.

Altogether a place to get that special gift I thought, and I shall certainly remember this centre when it comes to buying hand-crafted Christmas gifts.

Now who would have thought these were soaps?

Edensor Summer Fayre - Derbyshire

2011-07-06T23:48:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Edensor is the delightful little hamlet nestling just below Chatsworth House, with most of the residents being involved in this lovely Stately Home.

Quite by chance I was driving by recently and seeing crowds of people, stopped to see what was going on! It turned out to be the annual Summer Fayre, and it was delightful. The village green was covered with stalls, the Holymoorside Band was playing, and a Punch and Judy booth was entertaining the children.

What I particularly enjoyed was the fact that many gardens were open to the public, although this may not happen every year.

There were also Pole Lathe Turners - known as Bodgers - and it was most interesting to watch them hard at work.

Inside the lovely church they were serving the most delicious cream teas!
Also in the church were the very skilled bell ringers from Eyam. Actually I thought it was a pity their position wasn't better, as it was hard to fully appreciate them against the clatter of tea cups and general chatter!

Altogether this was the most marvellous way to spend a summer afternoon, and clearly from the numbers, other people thought so too!

This delightful annual Summer Fayre is held on the Saturday nearest the 29th June - St Peter's Day

The Hepworth Wakefield - Yorkshire

2011-07-04T01:46:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
This new art gallery was opened in May 2011 and is on the edge of the River Calder. The striking, somewhat bleak building, was designed by architect David Chipperfield and is said to respond to the gallery's waterfront setting, and complement the scale and form of the existing industrial buildings.

The region is rightly proud of the fact that both Barbara Hepworth (1903 - 1975) and Henry Moore (1898 - 1986) - two of the most important sculptors of the 20th century, were born and grew up in the Wakefield district.

Entry to the gallery is free, and the exhibits are upstairs, in light, attractive relatively small spaces. Photography is forbidden, so the following photographs are taken from the very informative booklet handed out by the friendly staff. I particularly liked this work - 'Two Forms with White (Greek)'

There were also quite a lot of works that incorporated strings, and were I thought most appealing.
In addition to all the work on display there were some really interesting videos and photographs etc on how the sculptures were created.

There were free tours, which would have been most interesting, but were fully booked when I visited. I did also have a couple of criticisms - like the signs on the sculptures were really small and hard to read, and, as is so often the case in galleries, really low down. (Why do they do this?)

In addition there were galleries there was another devoted to 'Yorkshire in Pictures' and when I visited work by Eva Rothschild called 'Hot Touch'.

This is the delightful work by Hepworth in the foyer, where photography was allowed.
It's called 'Six Forms in a Circle' and is made of polished bronze, and it looked quite amazing.

I travelled to Wakefield on the train, and then took a taxi to the gallery. It did seem to me that there were few signs to the venue, and the car park, which is across the river from the Hepworth, with a specially built bridge, was very poorly indicated.

This is a most interesting space and well worth a visit to marvel and delight in the work of this most important woman artist.

Beauvale Priory - Nottingham

2011-06-27T10:53:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
The ruins of Beauvale Priory lie 8 miles north-west of Nottingham, very near Moor Green Garden Centre and within the parish of Greasley.

It was built in 1343 by Sir Nicholas de Cantilupe, for an order of silent Carthusians. The community survived for nearly 2 centuries, living a life of quiet contemplation, extreme frugality and exclusion from the rest of society. And so it would have continued had not King Henry VIII wanted the priors John Houghton and Robert Lawrence to swear alliance to him rather than to the Pope. They naturally refused, and underwent the most horrendous torture, before being killed in 1535. They are considered the first Pro-martyrs and were canonized into sainthood in 1970.

There is not a lot of the building remaining, but what there is there is very impressive. This is the Prior's house. The interior clearly still shows where the upper floor had a fire place, and the curving wall for a staircase.

The site itself is quite breathtaking, with wonderful views across the countryside.

The site was bought a few years ago by Mr and Mrs T Whyte and their dedication and work in restoring this site, within the considerable restraints of a listed building, is absolutely admirable. For example, the top of this window was missing, but from rubble around the site they have been able to restore, and strengthen the ruin, giving a much clearer idea of its original appearance.

There is also a commemorative stone for the martyrs, and each year, on the Sunday nearest to May 4th, there is a diocesan pilgrimage. This is open to all.
At the present time Beauvale Priory is only open to groups, by prior arrangement. However, it is hoped by the autumn of 2011 it will be open at weekends. A tea room is in the process of being completed.

This is a most interesting, unusual and little-known part of Nottinghamshire's history and well worth a visit.

Rudyard Lake - Staffordshire

2011-06-21T10:43:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/

Rudyard Lake is just outside Leek. It was constructed as a reservoir between 1797/98, to feed the Caldon Canal. Visitors to the lake really started in 1849 when the North Staffordshire Railway (NSR) opened the line, and then the station in July 1850.

In 1904 an Act of Parliament allowed the construction of footpaths and also made it possible to hold events such as regattas and galas.

At the turn of the century during Stoke Wakes between 8,000 and 12,000 visitors would flock to Rudyard Lake. Trade Union rallies were also popular when up to 13,000 would arrive at the Lake. During the Second World War American troops practised for the D-Day landings in Normandy at the north end of the Lake.

Another claim to fame is that Jack Lockwood Kipling and his wife Alice met here, and liked it so much, they named their son Rudyard.When I visited I could hardly wait to try out the delightful little steam train that runs along one side of the lake. It is 10 1/4 inch gauge equivalent to half size full scale narrow gauge railway. There is a tiny railway station, that also serves snacks like burgers and hot drinks, which is reached via a little bridge!

'Gardeners World' NEC Birmingham

2011-06-17T02:46:00.001-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
The Gardeners' World Show is an annual event that takes place at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham, so it's very easy to reach. I had never been before, and the first thing that struck me was how huge it was!

I started by visiting the stalls outside - which seemed to be selling everything! Particularly popular were packs that opened up into sturdy plastic boxes on wheels with handles - just the job for carrying all the plants everyone was busy buying!

This was also the area for the impressive little show gardens. Out of a considerable number my favourite had to be the one for MacMillan Cancer Support, which was so lovely and colourful. Hopefully the buckets round the edge collected a considerable sum of money.

Inside the floral marquee the displays were absolutely breathtaking, and so much work must have gone into their preparation. I must admit I was rather attracted to this strking Satsuki Azelea from Mendip Bonsai Studio. It was incredible to think something so minature originated from 1960. No wonder their impressive display had won a Gold Medal.
There was also an area for Gardeners Questions, which was obviously popular, although the biggest crowds seemed to be round the Country File stand. When I was there Julia Bradbury was talking about her visit to Iceland to see the volcanos.

In addition to everything garden-wise this Show is also combined with the BBC Good Food Show - so boy, was there a lot to look at, not to mention all the free samples! There were also of course cookery demos.
What I couldn't believe was what a huge range of products were on offer. At the end of the day, quite apart from loving all the garden and food items, I'd changed electric supplier, enquired about solar panels and listened to the band!

This was a marvellous day out - and I can't wait til next year to do it all over again!

Garden's World is at the Nec from the 15th - 19 June 2011

Art Gallery - York

2011-06-15T11:38:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
The Art Gallery in York is just along from the Minster, and I've written previously of my visit to see the David Hockney painting (click here to see previous blog).

Upstairs are several small galleries housing the most interesting collection, where to my considerable delight photography was allowed. On entering the first thing one sees is this large, striking painting entitled 'The Return to the Front: Victoria Railway Station, 1916' It was painted by Richard Jack (1866 - 1952) and shows a large group of soldiers waiting to board a train to take them back to the battlefields of Northern Europe. There is a mixture of emotions, but the most poignant I found was the central seated character, wearing a kilt, who understandably is deep in thought at the grim prospect ahead.

The gallery doesn't just contain paintings on canvass - far from it. One item that caught my eye was this striking self-portrait created by William Peckitt (1731 - 1795). It shows his high level of skill in both painting and staining glass. The flesh appears lifelike due to the careful use of enamels and paints applied to the front and the back of the glass.

Peckitt was one of the country's leading glass artists in the Georgian period and lived and worked in York all his life. His prodigious success was recognised in 1754 when he was given the Freedom of the City of York, aged only 23. I thought this quite wonderful.

I really enjoyed my visit to the York Art Gallery - it is certainly somewhere well worth a visit.

Southwell Folk Festival - Nottinghamshire

2011-06-10T23:35:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
The Southwell Folk Festival began in 2006, but it was the first time I'd attended. The event takes place on the large field at the back of the National Trust property known as The Workhouse. Parking was on the field opposite Reg Taylor's Garden Centre, and part of Normanton Road and Workhouse Lane were closed.

Two things struck me immediately. One was how very well organised it was, with masses of stewards all in fluorescent jackets. The other was the price! Having never been a Folk Festival before I was unaware that the tickets were £160 for a family (Thursday - Sunday), £16 for a youth on Saturday and £22 for an adult on Friday. Perhaps this is the usual price for a Folk Festival.

Inside there were the expected stalls selling primarily hippy clothing and jewellery.

There were also masses of stalls selling food that had been cooked on site - all of which looked most appetizing. I eventually settled for a plateful of curry from Leon Lewis - and it was absolutely delicious.
The thing I liked best, and this was on the Friday, was that all over the place people were just sitting down and playing music. Others would then arrive and unwrap the most amazing array of instruments, and just skillfully join in. These impromptu concerts were just wonderful!

I was fortunate enough to hear, in one of the many marquees, the Minster Ceilidh Band - who I thought were excellent.
In addition to all the activities taking place at the main site there were events at the Bramley Apple, Hearty Goodfellow, Old Coach House and Final Whistle pubs. The Workhouse was using the Committee Room, Stable Block and Firbeck. In Southwell Market Square there was an Open Air Concert, alongside the French Market.

Having had a brief taster of this amazing event I can't wait till next year when I can go again, and attend more events.

Bullet train - York train museum

2011-06-09T01:35:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
The Train Museum in York is a fascinating place to visit, but the exhibit which interested me the most was the impressive Japanese Bullet Train.

Known as the Shinkansen, the Bullet Train was opened in 1965 and has set a standard for high speed rail travel ever since. This is the 'O' series, the first generation of Shinkansen, and was built for West Japan Railways in 1976. This particular train was withdrawn from service in October 2000 and donated to the Museum by the railway service.

It is considered to be one of the greatest leaps in rail technology since the Rocket.

One of the things I really liked was the fact that you could go inside and see the interior. At each end are video screens, so you could sit in the comfy seats and go on a virtual high-speed train journey!

There was also a display case showing the smart pale grey uniform of the staff, complete with white gloves and stop watch!

One thing did concern me. It was obvious from the map that this magnificent train ran very close to the coast, and I wondered how it had been affected by the recent devastating tsunami. It was good to hear on the TV recently that this was one of the first services that was restored.

The National Railway Museum is a really good place to visit with simply masses to see, spread over a large area - in fact it's quite easy to miss a bit!

Wingfield Manor - north Derbyshire

2011-06-06T02:20:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Wingfield Manor is thought to have been built around 1450 by the 3rd baron Cromwell, who was Chancellor of England. During the winter it's possible to see this striking ruin, perched high on a hillside, from miles around, but during the summer the foliage almost completely obscures the view.

I was fortunate to go on an English Heritage tour and up close it is certainly an impressive structure. This is where we gathered, and it was soon apparent why it's a favourite site for nesting birds like owls and rooks.

Everywhere you looked there were striking images, and being led by a very informative guide, really made the place come alive.

This is the area where Mary Queen of Scots, and her huge entourage were held kept captive. Her care was entrusted to the Earl of Shrewsbury, husband to Bess of Hardwick. How different it must have looked when the walls were covered with exotic tapestries, and the windows full of coloured glass.
I must admit my favourite part was the undercroft, so cool and full of unexpected carvings. Our guide told us to look carefully at our digital photographs, as there have been reports of many strange ghostly happenings down here, but unfortunately mine all look remarkably ordinary!

This is the group out in the garden behind the Manor, and we could really appreciate how high we were, with stunning views over Derbyshire.

Wingfield Manor has now been 'mothballed' by English Heritage and is only open for pre-booked guided tours on the first Saturday on each month from April til September. Last year I didn't ring early enough and was unable to get on a tour, so this year I rang at the beginning of February to be sure to get a place, and I was certainly glad I did, for this is a very special place, and well worth a visit.

Barkers - Clumber Park - north Nottinghamshire

2011-06-02T23:36:00.001-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Barkers is the name given to the new resturant in the National Trust property of Clumber Park. It is situated in the lovingly refurbished former home of generations of Clumber head gardeners, and is just above the impressive walled kitchen garden.

Each room has a strong period feel, and what really appealed to me was the fact that there is spotless, starched linen on every table, and real napkins! (I just hate paper serviettes, which seem to get smaller and smaller!)

At the moment newly-opened Barkers is just open for morning coffee, lunch and afternoon tea, from Wednesday to Sunday, but I'm sure this will increase as they get more popular.

I arrived in time for afternoon tea, and chose marble cake from the selection, and Earl Grey tea. It arrived on this big plate, with grated chocolate and icing sugar round the edge - such fun!
Obviously this sort of service doesn't come cheap - but this treat was only a fiver, which I didn't think you could complain about. Tradition Cream Tea, with pot of tea, two freshly baked sultana scones with strawberry and champagne preserve and Lubcloud Dairy extra thick cream was £5.95. Traditional afternoon tea with tea, finger sandwiches, scones, homemade cake, fresh fruit tart, and shortbread was £17.50.

The main lunch menu had things like fillet of beef, seared then glazed with cheese and red wine, served on a bed of garlic and bacon tossed green beans at £17.95, or fillet of salmon with parsley infused crushed new potatoes and a butter and dill sauce, accompanied by freshly picked salad from the Kitchen Garden for £12.95.

Upstairs there's a nice room for a small wedding reception or special party and there's also a nice small meeting room.

Outside, in a freshly planted area, is a really nice seating area.
I thought this such a nice place - and much needed, as the food place near the Duke's Study is very cafeteria and full of children and dogs! For a special meal, or just to treat yourself this is the place.

I for one shall certainly be going back!

Monsal Head Tunnels - Derbyshire

2011-06-01T01:55:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
In 1863 the Midland Railway built a track from Rowsley, through the limestone Peak District, ending up outside Buxton. It was an ambitious scheme, involving 3,500 yards of tunnel, two major viaducts and a handful of minor ones. However, this scenic route would remain open for barely a century.

However, in 1981 the Peak District National Park Authority opened the Monsal Trail, a nine-mile path linking Blackwell Mill Junction with 3 miles outside Buxton. This proved hugely popular, except when you got to the tunnels. Then walkers were diverted over steep, hilly paths, and the route was impossible for cyclists.

However, this has now changed with the opening of the tunnels!
I went to Millers Dale, where there is a pay car park. Originally this had had five platforms, and one of the few stations in England to have a Post Office. The railway was used to transport milk, tourists and stone from the nearby rich limestone deposits.

The approach to Chee Tor Tunnel is through the most beautiful countryside, and it was interesting to see the remains of the lime works built in 1876, and now a wildlife haven.

Inside the tunnel I was surprised to see that in parts it was a mixture of small, hand-made bricks on top of a base of solid rock.

Very fortunately lighting has now been added to the tunnel. Here at Chee Tor No 1 tunnel a cable has been run from the former station at Millers Dale with fluorescent lighting suspended from the arched ceiling. The units are long-life - lasting about 80,000 hours each, and there's also three hours of emergency lighting in case of power failure. It turns off once it becomes dark.

I thought this quite marvellous, and thoroughly enjoyed walking through the tunnel - and of course there are still several others on the route waiting to be explored. Choosing a quiet time to walk seems like a good idea, as cyclist do creep up from behind in a rather alarming way!

Hockney - Bigger Trees near Warter - York

2011-05-28T23:44:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
David Hockney's amazing painting 'Bigger Trees near Warter' has been on loan from the Tate Gallery in London to the York Art Gallery. I went especially to see it.

(As expected, photography was not allowed - so this is a bought postcard.)

The stunning painting is made up of 50 canvases which fit together to show a scene near the East Yorkshire village of Warter. Altogether it measures 40 x 15 feet (12 x 4 metres), so occupies the whole of one wall. This is the biggest painting Hockney has ever attempted, and it took him six weeks to complete.

Accompanying the exhibition was a video about how the painting was made, which I found particularly interesting. It amused me that he wanted to do a painting for the Tate, but wanted to ensure that his was the only one on the wall - so he made it this size.

He also used cameras and computers to make up a sort of collage so he could see exactly which squares still needed to be completed, and it was clear that he was reliant on quite a number of other people.

The Gallery itself is very nice, with very helpful staff, so I was well pleased that I'd travelled by train especially to see this lovely painting. In fact I could have sat and looked at it for hours, it was calm and lovely.

This painting remains at the York Art Gallery until the 12th June 2011

St Oswald's Church - Ashbourne - Derbyshire

2011-05-23T23:51:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
This striking church, with it's 212 foot spire, stands at the very end of the delightful town of Ashbourne in Derbyshire. Erected about 1340, when I visited it was surrounded by a delightful wild flower meadow, but in early spring is famous for it's impressive display of daffodils. A Dr Hollick was often seen planting bulbs during the last century and there are said to be more than a hundred different varieties.

This is a view of the very fine side door.

Inside the church is impressively large, and I was particularly struck by this lovely stained glass window by pre-Raphaelite artist Christopher Wale. It was given to the church by Mr & Mrs Peveril Turnbull of Sandybrook Hall in 1905 in memory of their daughters who both tragically died in a fire.
Another sad event is recorded in the beautifully carved monument to five year old Penelope Boothby who died in 1791. This is the work of T Banks, R.A., to commemorate the life of the little daughter of Sir Brooke Boothby, Bt., and his wife, Susannah. The inscription round the base is in four different languages, English, Latin, French and Italian, all of which Penelope spoke. Apparently this touching memorial was very popular with Victorians.

It is contained in a sort of mausoleum area of the church with the most impressive collection of carved purbeck marble and local Chellaston alabaster monuments, dating back to 1404.

Altogether this is a most fascinating church to visit, full of the most wonderful examples of past craftsmanship

Thoresby Stable Block - Nottinghamshire

2011-05-21T02:54:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Thoresby Stable Block was built by Anthony Salvin at the time he built nearby Thoresby Hall, between 1865 - 75. It is a quite impressive structure, surrounded by delightful woodland, and it's good that it has been put to modern usage.

There is car parking outside, and then it's through the archway into the large courtyard. In the corner is The Bay Tree Cafe and Giftshop, and to the right Courtyard Confectionery and Hazel Walker Ladieswear. There are also interesting home furnishings shops and gift type shops. However two are my particular favourites. One has to be Ingrid Pears Hot Glass Studio - where she is often at work, blowing and making the most wonderful creations. However, this area is not always open as Ingrid is a craftsperson of world renown and is often away at a far-flung part of the world. It certainly is a treat to have such a person working in the area.

All across one end of this impressive area is the Thoresby Gallery - which is just a delight with its changing range of paintings and craft work, all on sale, and often at quite reasonable prices. In fact just the place for that special gift.

One end is devoted to the work of Marie-Louise Roosevelt Pierrepont, Countess Manvers who lived from 1889 - 1984, and was a very talented artist.

Just beside The Bay Tree Cafe is another lovely space, perhaps used originally as an indoor riding area. It certainly has a nice structure and is now used for such things as wedding receptions, concerts, plays and craft fairs.

I think of this place as a hidden gem, deep in the woods, that is a real asset to North Nottinghamshire

Norwell - north Nottinghamshire

2011-05-16T23:48:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Norwell is a delightful village that I've only recently had the pleasure of discovering. Although situated within three miles of the A1, the Old Great North Road, the River Trent and the East Coast Mainline railway, it remains delightfully rural.

The main road runs through the village, and is just one building deep. At the edge of the village is St Laurence's Church. A church was recorded here in the Domesday Book, but the doorway in the porch which dates from 1150-80, is the earliest surviving part of the building. All the main styles of English medieval church architecture are represented, including 15th century clerestory windows above the nave.

Many of the buildings in the village are really old and interesting, and are Grade II listed. Several are sideways on to the road, having originally been farm yards, which then developed into craftsmen's dwellings - housing such folk as the village blacksmith. Originally these dwellings would have been timber-framed, but in the 18th century they were encased in brick.
The village has produced two excellent leaflets - a Heritage Trial and one on walks from Norwell, as well as four excellent books about various aspects of the village. All are available from the church or the village shop. I certainly intend to return and study this fascinating place in more detail.

Egmanton - North Nottinghamshire

2011-05-14T23:06:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Egmanton is a small village about a mile from Tuxford. To just drive through, as I've always done in the past, is to miss a real treasure. Part of the small church dates back to the 14th century, and from the outside looks much like hundreds of other British churches.

However, the interior is astounding - definitely a case of the 'Wow!' factor! The Church is in fact a Pilgrimage Church, and there are several crosses cut into the stones to mark attendance. It contains the Shrine of Our Lady of Egmanton, and five pilgrimages a year are still held here.

In 1897 Henry, Duke of Newcastle, who lived in nearby Clumber Park commission Sir Ninian Comper to decorate the interior of this little church. He certainly went over the top, and his work on the rood screen has recently been restored, and is now quite breathtaking. The organ case, modelled on a European one, is similarly lavishly decorated, and the pulpit is based on one in Ghent.

At the side of the church is a path leading up to a motte. These are impressive earthworks, surrounded by a ditch, and this one has a circumference of 460 feet, and is in remarkably good condition.

Certainly a little hidden treasure in north Nottinghamshire

Kinema in the Woods - Woodhall Spa, Lincolnshire

2011-05-05T00:47:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Woodhall Spa is a delightful small town in Lincolnshire that is well worth a visit. Apart from an interesting mix of small shops on the main street, including several good places to eat, I discovered this amazing Cinema!

The small building was built in the late 19th century, when it was known as 'The Barn' and was used for meetings and bazaars. Then it became the cricket pavillion, and then a concert hall. Eventually it was decided that what the town really needed was cinema - the unusual spelling comes from kinematics.

It is the only cinema in the country to operate by back projection behind the screen. It opened in 1922, the first film being a silent Charlie Chaplin. Two ladies, one from the local Methodist Chapel, played suitable atmospheric music during the film. The most expensive seats comprised rows of deck chairs, with cheaper benches at the rear. How I would have loved to have seen these, but unfortunately safety regulations meant their removal in the 1950s.

In 1973 James Green took over the Kinema and puchased a Compton Kinestra Organ, which emerges from under the stage during the interval! It is now played by Mr Alan Underwood who, as in the early days, plays for the local church.

Now the 'Kinema' runs normal Hollywood-type films - somewhat to my disappointment, I wanted something more exotic! The organ is only played on Saturday nights, but that would be something worth hearing, so I may well go back for this unique experience.

Tropical Butterfly House - Sheffield - S. Yorkshire

2011-04-30T02:17:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
The Tropical Butterfly House and Wildlife & Falconry Centre is situated in N. Anston, just outside Sheffield. I went in a car using a Sat Nat which I think was handy, as signage seemed quite poor from the M1.

The Butterfly House was delightful - hot and damp with dozens of these most beautiful creatures flying about. (I particularly loved the big blue butterflies, but they were too active to photograph very effectively.) What I liked was the fact that not only were the butterflies free, but there were a lot of birds also flying about, and everywhere there was the most wonderful foliage and flowers.

I was quite proud of myself when I spotted a large iguana up in the dense foliage. How happy he looked basking the high temperatures and enjoying the water misting machine!
I was also really thrilled to spot this lovely bat - and living what must be quite a natural life.

Outside was also good, with a lot of poultry running free. I also liked the way there were little bowls of fruit, complete with plastic spoon, so visitors could feed the various caged exhibits. This delightful chipmunk knew exactly where to sit in order to get a cherry!
My favourite outside enclosure was the delightful meerkat compound, which was most imaginatively designed, and was a clear delight to the animals inside. How much more interesting a cordyline looks with a meekat keeping sentry duty on top!

I was sorry I missed the falconry display, but was busy having lunch in the little cafe. I believe there are also parrot shows, so altogether a very good, family day out, and I strongly recommend it.

Andre Rieu Concert - NEC - Birmingham

2011-04-26T23:27:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Andre Rieu is the world-famous violinist and conductor who has formed the Johann Strauss Orchestra which plays waltzes all over the world.

Recently he gave a sell-out performance at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham, and I was fortunate to attend. As well as the spectacularly dressed orchestra there are always special guests, which include The Three Tenors, who were very good, as well as three sopranos. There were also a selection of local school children forming a chorus at one stage.

There were also some funny effects, like when 'snow' poured down on unsuspecting members of the audience!
As usual, before playing the famous 'Blue Danube Waltz' Andre invited members of the audience to get up and dance, which they did literally in their hundreds, and it was just lovely to watch people having such a good time. (Interestingly, afterwards few returned to their seats, but remained gathered in front of the stage, hanging on Andre's every word.)

Personally I felt I enjoyed the DVD's of his spectacular shows more - as they include a wonderful mock-up of a palace with golden chandeliers, ice skaters and dancers, not to mention a golden carriage drawn by little white ponies! At this concert it was just an orchestra sitting on a stage - much like any other show. However, what made this different was Andre's very warm and friendly personality - he really comes over as such a happy and lovely person.

And if nothing else it was certainly an experience, and I was glad I'd gone

LG Arena - NEC Birmingham

2011-04-24T23:35:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
The LG Arena was opened in the mid-1980s and is situated at the side of the main NEC exhibition halls. This impressive site is actually in Solihull, just south of Birmingham, and is next to the International Airport and the main line railway. Consequently it is easy to reach, although a lot of walking is involved as with a 628 acre site, there are considerable distances between places!

The entrance to the Arena is through security barriers, where my bag was also search. The foyer area is vast, but strangely gloomy. All round the edge are eateries, selling everything from fish and chips to baked potatoes and salads. However, there is chronic shortage of tables and chairs.

More walking is involved to reach the arena itself - with steps. This certainly did not seem to be place for the disabled. There are adequate toilet facilites. The arena itself seats 16,000, but seats other than at ground level involve steep metal steps. Because of the sheer numbers, it is very hot inside.

This was the first time I had attended an arena event - and whilst it was certainly a memorable experience, I don't think I shall be rushing to repeat it.

Greenhills Garden Centre - Portland College - Mansfield - N. Notts

2011-04-21T09:03:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Greenhills Garden Centre used to be just outside Sutton in Ashfield near Hamilton Hill. However, it closed at Christmas, to the considerable disappointment of its many customers.

However, I was delighted to learn that it has relocated to Portland College, which is situated on the Nottingham Road, leading into Mansfield. This is the wonderful place that caters for people with a wide range of disabilities, giving them an experience of life they can only have previously dreamt of.

The new Garden Centre was officially opened on the 1st April, 2011, by local newspaper and radio contributor Rob Foster, better known as 'The Lazy Gardener.' It is the first joint commercial venture undertaken by the College, and apart from all the usual items found in such places, it will feature specialist roses grown by Gregory's Roses of Nottingham.

I couldn't wait to visit, and what a delight I discovered. Next to the College's Cafe, and using the same car park, the Garden Centre is set in the most delightful forest setting. There is also a shop attached to the cafe with garden requirements, and outside, bedding plants. The College's cafe serves a wide range of snacks, from soup and jacket potatoes to salads and chips, as well as all the usual range of drinks and ice creams.

There is plenty of seating, inside and out, so it's possible to have a really nice visit - and come home with that special plant as a gift or a treat!

This is such a lovely, tranquil place to visit I really can't wait to return - especially as it's possible to have a meal, and generally spend a considerable amount of time in such a special place.

Tetbury - Gloucestershire

2011-04-14T06:30:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Tetbury is often considered the entrance to the Cotswolds and is set in the unrivalled beauty of green protected countryside. It contains England's greatest concentration of protected buildings. The centre of the town follows a route in use for over 800 years, lined with Cotswold stone buildings dating from the 17th and 18th century.

The striking Market House at the top of the High Street was built in 1655, and is one of the finest examples of a Cotswold pillared market house and is still in regular use as a meeting place and market. Wednesday is market day with antique stalls in the oak-beamed meeting hall and general stalls at street level. It houses the WI market on Friday mornings and regular antique markets.

Another dominant building is that of the parish church of St Mary the Virgin and St Mary Magdalen. Built by Francis Horn between 1777 and 1781 the church has recently been described by an English Heritage Building Inspector as 'the best Georgian gothic church I have ever seen.' Extensive restoration work has restored the interior to its original 18th century appearance. The spire is the fourth highest in England.

I had the pleasure of attending evening service in this church, and I thought the singing of the choir quite outstanding.

Ecclesbourne Valley Railway - Duffield Line - Derbyshire

2011-04-10T03:11:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
The Ecclesbourne Valley Railway is a community-owned, locally managed venture to reopen and operate a railway between Wirksworth and Duffield in Derbyshire. This line was in daily use from the opening of the branch in 1867 to its closure for passenger services in 1947. Freight trains continued to use the line until 1989, carrying thousands of tons of limestone from the quarries at Wirksworth to all parts of the country.

In the past I have travelled on the line as far as Idridgehay (see previous blog) However, this was The Grand Opening of the Line to Duffield (9th April 2011)

The restoration has taken the keen, skilled volunteers 11 years, and I found the photos in one of the carriages quite fascinating.

When we started off from Wirksworth the first noticeable thing was the bridge which takes the A6 road over the line. Just beyond that is the only tunnel on the line, at 52 yards (48 metres) it is one of the shortest in the country. It only exists because there is a cross roads above it. It was built to take two tracks, but, although the station siding extended to the tunnel, the branch itself was always single track and uphill all the way to Wirksworth.

I thought this was the greatest fun, so here's a taster of what it was like! (I thought about using the 'Mute' button - but the men are talking about the railway, and with no sound track the noise of the train would be lost!)

Highgrove - Tetbury - Gloucestershire

2011-04-08T03:10:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Highgrove is the private home of His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales. He bought it in 1980 when it was just a somewhat stark house standing in rough pasture land. From the very beginning Prince Charles has worked passionately to create a garden which adheres to his organic principles, and which encourages both plants and wildlife to thrive in a very natural environment.

I had always wanted to visit this garden, but in the past this has been limited to Garden Club members. However, I read last year that it is now possible to obtain spare tickets on-line from the 1st February, and I couldn't wait!

Initially I had wanted to go later in the summer, but very few tickets were available, and in fact I went on the very first day of the season - and it couldn't have been more wonderful. Actually finding Highgrove proved a bit stressful - as it's isn't signed and you have to spot a 'Private No Entry' sign off the busy A433! A short drive and a policeman checks your tickets and your identification - something with a photo, like a driving licence, passport or bus pass. These are then rechecked on reaching the house.

The tour starts with a 10 minute DVD introduction by the Prince, and then the party, in our case of 26, set off round the garden, which is divided into 12 separate areas. The group is kept together at all times, so no roaming off, except for a few minutes in the lovely walled kitchen garden. The tour takes around 2 hours, so you need to be quite fit, although there are no steps.

One thing that surprised me was actually how close we got to the house - you could have touched the front door! With its stunning views out across to Tetbury it must be a very lovely place to live.

I loved every area, but was particularly taken with this encrusted fountain that was in the middle of the vegetable garden. Prince Charles is very keen that it should remain completely untouched as it is so popular with the bees, who swarm round on sunny days for a refreshing drink of water.
Of course no photography nor mobile phones are allowed in the garden - all these illustrations are taken from the leaflet.

I found it hard to imagine that Highgrove is ever lovelier than in the springtime, when there were literally hundreds upon hundreds of daffodils and narcissus, as well as tulips, helibores and of course blossom and magnolias.

I just wanted to go and visit every week - it's just such a very special place, and I thought it most generous of Prince Charles to open his garden, and give so much pleasure to people like me.

Westonbirt Arboretum - Tetbury, Gloucestershire

2011-04-06T02:43:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Westonbirt has one of the finest tree collections in the world carefully laid out within a beautiful Grade 1 Historic Landscape. Covering an area of approximately 600 acres it has 17 miles of marked paths, and some 18,000 trees and shrubs. In fact most of it is very suitable for the disabled.

I thought it would just be a mass of trees, but in fact there are lovely vistas, such as this area, known as Holford Rise.

Every time of the year must be lovely here, but it's hard to imagine anything more glorious than when the magnolias are in flower, and at Westonbirt they have such wonderful specimens. This is Magnolia Sprengri
In fact, although it was only the very beginning of April, there was colour and blossom everywhere. (No wonder this gorgeous magnolia was called 'Diva'!

Interestingly the huge woodland is divided into two very different areas, separated by the excellent visitor facilities, which include a good restaurant and seating both inside and out. I started by exploring the Old Arboretum with its host of rare and exotic trees, some dating back to the 1850's when the Holford family lavished huge sums of money on the estate.

Later I walked into Silk Wood. Although it contained many exotic plantings, it is really a traditional working woodland, dating back to the 13th century. There I found The Silk Wood Barn which has been built using timber harvested from the surrounding woodland, and constructed using traditional techniques and tools. Each of the 3500 roof tiles was hand-made from oak and sweet chestnut. The barn will be used for courses relating to learning and management of our native woodlands. It can also be used for picnics, sheltering from the rain and just sitting and wondering at the skill of the craftspeople who built it.

I came away from this lovely place just wishing that I lived nearer - so that I could visit every day and watch nature in all it's seasons. A truly special experience.

Baytree Garden Cebtre - Spalding - Lincolnshire

2011-03-20T03:32:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Baytree Garden Centre is located between Spalding and Holbeach in Lincolnshire. In 2010 it celebrated 40 years of successful trading. From humble beginnings it now covers a staggering 30 acres, with 16 of those being retail areas.

This is a family-run concern, just what I like! There is absolutely everything available from woolly jumpers to pets and lawn mowers! There is also an Owl Centre with a large indoor flying area, as well as a 300 seat restaurant.

What I particularly love about Baytree is the fact that all the staff are not only so helpful, but so knowledgeable as well. During this last visit I wanted a tree which I'd just seen in someone's garden, but from my somewhat vague description the kind gentleman knew exactly what I wanted, and in next to no time had led me over to the display, explained it's requirements and special pruning necessary. I couldn't think of anywhere else I would have received such attention.

I really recommend a trip out to The Baytree - but suggest you allocate most of a day - there's just so much to see - and take plenty of spending money!

Magna Charta pub - Lowdham - Nottinghamshire

2011-03-15T03:44:00.000-07:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
The Magna Charta at Lowdham is on the site of an old coaching house, and that is easy to imagine as it's on the edge of the A612.

I believe it has recently been acquired by the Old English group, and undergone a considerable refurbishment. As this was the first time I'd visited I wasn't familiar with how it was before, and just found it very nice and appealing.

The inside is divided into quite small, intimate spaces, which I really like, and the staff were overwhelmingly friendly and attentive - which I think makes one feel really special, although it was driving the couple next to me up the wall! Unlike many pubs, people were directed to their tables, which was fine with me, although some people were saying they preferred to choose for themselves.

What particularly impressed me was the wide range of food on offer. I prefer vegetarian, and eating out, particularly in chain pubs, can result in a really limited, and often boring choice. However, at the Magna Charter I had the most lovely pie, full of cheese and mushrooms, together with jacket potato and garden peas - absolutely gorgeous.

The desserts were pretty nice too!

I can well imagine going back here should I be in the area

'Clocks' - British Museum - London

2011-03-11T02:56:00.001-08:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
The British Museum was established in 1753 and houses one of the most comprehensive collections anywhere in the world. It was originally largely based on the collections of the amazing Sir Hans Sloane, and is certainly one of my favourite places to visit in London.

With such a vast site this time I concentrated on Rooms 38 - 39 which specialise in clocks. This lovely table clock dates from about 1705 and has gilded mounts on an ebony-veneered case to create an opulent effect.

I was particularly interested in the longcase clocks, and asked a passing child to kindly pose for me in order to show the huge size of this pair. According to the sign, longcase clocks were generally made larger in the early 1700s to suit the new, grander houses. The one on the right is a typical London clock of about 1705. The intricate marquetry (inlaid wood) design includes four birds. The hood has a hinged door for winding access, unlike the earlier smaller clocks where the hood lifted up. The dial indicates hours, minutes and seconds, which became standard in the centuries to come.
However, my absolute favourite had to be this beautiful automaton in the form of a ship, incredibly made about 1585. It was intended to announce banquets at court. The entertainment began with music from a miniature organ inside the hull, drumming and a procession. Afterwards the ship would travel across the table. When it stopped, as a grand finale, the front cannon would automatically fire, lighting a fuse that would fire the other guns.

How absolutely marvellous! How I wished it was still in working order!

It doesn't matter how often you visit the British Museum it is impossible to see everything. I just think of it as a treat waiting to be explored!

'Flicks in the Sticks' - Lowdham - Nottinghamshire

2011-03-08T02:48:00.000-08:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
2011 has seen the 10th year of Flicks in the Sticks, an annual film weekend organised by the marvellous Lowdham Bookcase bookshop (see previous blog).

The event started with a Film Quiz Night at The Old Ship, when birthday cake was served! Then 10 different films were on show - ranging from the very popular 'The King's Speech' to 'Brighton Rock' and 'The Water Horse'. There was also a 'Looking again at Alan Sillitoe's Films'. Alan was a great friend to Lowdham Book Festival and Flicks, and with his birthday being on March 4th, the organiser decided to honour his passing with a detailed look at his work with film lecturer Frank Abbot analysing 60 mins of clips.

The show I attended was 'Nottinghamshire on Film' and this was held in the Methodist Chapel. It was a nostalgic look back at people, places and communities with archive film from Media Archive of Central England, including the mines and lace factories of Nottingham, early colour film of air raid exercises and footage of freight boats working at Gunthorpe.
Beforehand it had been possible to purchase tea and cake, and afterwards there was a bookstall containing volumes relevant to the films.

Everything was so well organised, and I really enjoyed the event. No wonder so many of the shows were sold out - I for one can hardly wait til next year to find out what excellent films have been arranged.

'War Horse' London

2011-03-05T02:31:00.000-08:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
'War Horse' is the theatrical production adapted from Michael Morpurgo's children's book of the same name. It is presently playing at the New London Theatre on Drury Lane.

The first thing that struck me was what a strange theatre this is, and so unimposing on the outside I initially walked past it! Inside there is a small, crowded foyer from which everyone goes up an escalator. Then it's up loads of concrete steps - in fact I've never climbed so much in order to get to the stalls!

The inside of the 1973's theatre is built like a small ampitheatre, so everyone gets a brilliant view of the revolving stage, but is extremely hard for the disabled.

The set is minimalist, but very effective. The 'gash' you can see in the photo represents a piece of paper torn from a sketch pad, and during the show the images changed.
The most breathtaking aspect of the show were of course the horses - you just couldn't believe they were puppets, despite the fact you could clearly see the operators! (The man sitting next to me said he had kept horses all his life, and these were so realistic he was blown away!). I particularly loved the scenes near the beginning of the show when the young, skittish foal is taken to auction.

Needless to say, any story about war, particuarly covering the carnage of the First World War is going to be both sad and harrowing, but I did like the fact that this Devon horse is sold to the British cavalry, is captured by the Germans when it pulls ambulances and guns, and winters on the French farm - how even-handed is that!

This production has been described as 'astonishing' and it certainly is a an unmissable experience. I strongly recommend you go and see it.

'Alternatives' - St James' Piccadilly

2011-02-26T04:14:00.000-08:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
'Alternatives' is the fantastic group of people who host talks and workshops based and organised from St James' Church in Piccadilly, in the heart of London.

It started in 1982 when the Revd. Donald Reeves was appointed to be Rector of this lovely church. From the beginning he saw the church as a place of light and hope for London, and he was anxious to create a spcae for debate and acceptance.

Initially called Turning Points, it is now known as 'Alternatives' and is celebrating 30 years of honouring all spiritual traditions and cultures. They organise weekly talks, led by world-wide speakers, and workshops held in venues all over London.

Living in Nottingham, much as I would like to attend almost everything, unfortunately it has to be an infrequent treat. However, over the years I have attended talks organised byAlternatives, including one at Friends House with spiritual writer Neil Donald Walsch and at Westminster Hall to hear 'The Journey' author Brandon Bays.

Recently I have been fortunate enough to attend a two-day Bootcamp organised by Alternatives featuring Julia Cameron.

I certainly look forward to attend more of these superb events in the future.

Penn Club - London

2011-02-22T03:26:00.001-08:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
The Penn Club was founded in the 1920s with money over from the Friends Ambulance Service who had been active in the First World War. It is a comfortable, safe place to stay, and being situated in Bedford Place is just off Russell Square. At the end of the road is the British Museum, so is much used by people studying there.

The building consists of 3 interlinking Georgian terrace houses, built in the early 1800's and still retaining many original features.

Most unusually, particularly in the heart of London, this is a not-for-profit organisation and any surplus goes towards the upkeep of the building and on improving the facilities, which are comfortable and adequate.

This is the lounge, which contains the TV, as rooms do not each have their own, neither do they have radios. Peace and quiet are the order of the day at the Penn Club, whose aim is to foster the spirit of fellowship within a Quaker ethos.

Bed and Breakfast is offered, and a cooked or continental meal is available in the small, pleasant dining room. Tea and coffee is available throughout the day, and there is a fridge and freezer for the use of guests who can bring in their own food for an evening meal.

By far my favourite place is the Edward Cadbury Room, which is the library, but which is also used for silent meditation, and which has the most lovely atmosphere. Newspapers and magazines are provided in here.

There are 45 bedrooms but no lift because the age of the building makes installation difficult.

Altogether a real treasure in the heart of London

Southwel Trail - North Nottinghamshire

2011-02-10T06:01:00.000-08:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
The Southwell trail is along the site of the old railway line, which opened in 1871 from Rolleston to Mansfield. It had a reputation for being a slow service, and passenger services were few, although it did carry a lot of coal trains. However, it was finally closed in 1968.

In the 1970s the land was purchased by Nottinghamshire County Council, for use by walkers, cyclists and horse riders. It is also an important link for wildlife, as there are two distinct geological areas. Around Bilsthorpe and Farnsfield there is Sherwood Sandstone, which is acidic and supports soils low in nutrients yielding relatively few species. Further south from Kiklington towards Southwell the geology changes to Keupar Marl, which supports rich meadows and woodlands.

I joined the trail at Station Road Kirklington, where there is a car park. One of the things I liked was the changing vistas, sometimes narrow and enclosed, other times open on to wide fields.
It was too early to see much in the way of wildlife, and especially the many butterflies that are said to frequent the area, but there were ecouraging signs of new growth springing up everywhere.
And what creature lives in all these holes?

Clearly this is a pathway that would be different at every season of the year. With such firm, flat, easy walking it would be ideal site to visit no matter the weather, and I certainly plan to return later in the year.

Manor Farm Tea Shoppe - Bleasby - Nottinghamshire

2011-02-07T23:43:00.000-08:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
This delightful tea room is situated in the small village of Bleasby, just a short drive from the Minster town of Southwell. It is definitely one of my favourite stopping places!

There is adequate off-road parking and a new brick path to the tea room, so easy access for wheelchairs and those unsteady on their feet. Inside it is cosy and very warm and snug, thanks to a large wood burning stove.

So what did I have for lunch? The most gorgeous pea and mint soup served with a very hot home-made brown roll!
I also brought fresh eggs, and there are always jars of pickles and preserve on sale. During the winter Andrew Goodwin is licensed to sell game, and I often stock up on flour. What I particularly like is the fact that Caroline Goodwin tries to use local producers - so the whole area benefits.
They get eggs from Epperstone, sliced bread from Farnsfield, meat from the butchers at Woodthorpe and Hockerton is the source of both fruit and veg., as well as milk and cream, a really ideal arrangement.

I strongly recommend this delightful stopping place - which is open
10-5 every day.

The Neasden Temple - north London

2011-02-04T02:59:00.000-08:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Neasden Temple is situated off the North Circular Road in the ordinary London suburb of Neasden. During a visit to London in 1970, Yogiji Maharaj expressed his dream that a huge temple be built in the city. It took many years but in 1990 land was acquired, and the 5,000 tons of Carrera marble and fine Bulgarian limestone that had been shipped to India, began to arrive. Every one of the 26,300 individually carved pieces were assembled over a three year period.

Nothing prepares one for the sight of the temple, situated amidst ordinary English houses!

Beside the temple, just visible on the right hand side in the video, is the Cultural Complex, which is where visitors enter. However, first it is necessary to hand in all bags, cameras etc., but I was glad I was able to keep my purse! Once inside strict security is in operation with airport-type scanners in operation. It was also necessary to remove ones shoes.

You enter first into the Grand Haveli Foyer, which is full of the most marvellous, and intricate wood carvings, literally on every surface.

Then you're directed up towards the temple. There was an exhibition 'Understanding Hinduism' which cost £1.50, but I didn't think it would interest me, so I didn't enter, but afterwards learnt the video dealt with the construction of the temple, so I was cross I'd missed that, as that particularly interested me.

There was also a display of all the important people who have visited - including Prince Charles and the Pope.

Then it was upstairs to the temple, which I climbed carefully being just in my socks and the marble floor was definitely slippery! Of course no photography was allowed within the temple so all these illustrations are taken from the leaflet.

I was very fortunate on returning to the entrance hall to be invited to see the Haveli Prayer Hall by one of the many friendly Indians in attendance. It was the most amazing space, and when fully extended measures 2,500 square metres and can seat over 2,000, which must be quite a spectacle.

I was sorry not to have time to visit the restuarant on site. During the Diwali festival 1,500 vegetarian food dishes are prepared, and it must be lovely place to eat. Perhaps it's a treat in store next time I visit the

'Largest Temple outside India' Guiness World Records 2000

Thynghowe - Edwinstowe - Nottinghamshire

2011-01-23T03:06:00.000-08:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Birklands Forest is the area of ancient Sherwood Forest just outside the village of Edwinstowe, and in Old Norse it's name means a wood full of birch trees. It has a history of use as a royal hunting ground dating back to Norman times. Between the 12th and the 14th centuries it provided a source of livestock for the deer park surrounding the King's House at Clipstone. In the early 18th century the land passed to the Duke of Newcastle and much of the forest is now owned by the Welbeck Estate and the neighbouring Thoresby Estate. Much of the land is under conifer plantation managed by the Forestry Commission although many surviving remnants indicate its past uses.

On the 26th July 1816 a group of Warsop folk walked around the entire boundary of the Manor of Warsop, checking the positons of markers. The rediscovery of a document describing this perambulation has raised awareness of the significance of this boundary and provided the stimulus for further reseach.

The most prominent feature along this trail is Thynghowe, now known as Hanger Hill. It is located on the boundary between three parishes and may once have been an important location on the border of the kingdoms of Northumbria and Merica.

According to ancient documents a mound on the trial was called Thynghowe in 1334 and 1609. English Heritage listing suggesting a mid-10th century origin under Danelaw, when it may have been the site of a Saxon meeting place.
In 2005 The Friends of Thynghowe was formed with members of three local historical societies. They aim to link together historical research, archaeology and conservation management.

Recently they held an Open Day and I was fortunate to attend, and it was absolutely fascinating. It will be well worth while following future developments, including the results an airborne laser scanning survey and survey work undertaken by the University College London as part of their reseach work into English Assembly Sites.

The Hippodrome - Birmingham

2011-01-22T03:24:00.000-08:00

http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
The Hippodrome Theatre in Birmingham is situated on the edge of the China Quarter of the city, and is just a short walk from New Street railway station.

There has been an entertainment building on this site since 1895, at one stage boasted a circus ring and a minature Blackpool Tower! It has been known as the 'Tower of Varieties', 'Tivoli' and from 1903 'The Hippodrome'

Whilst the exterior might seem pretty unimposing, the interior is really nice and spacious.

There was an extensive refurbishment in 2001. I don't know what it was like before then, but now it's really lovely. What I really liked was the fact that on every floor there was plenty of room to move above, with seats and tables too.

There is an Upper Circle, Middle Circle, Front Circle and stalls, so altogether seating for 1,900. At each level there are toilets and refreshment areas.
The seats in the theatre were very comfortable and I was particularly impressed that over the boxes were the most gorgeous chandaliers!Whilst the facilities were really good what always impresses me the most about a place is the friendliness of the staff and at the Hippodrome I really liked the way everyone was prepared to talk, and so many wished me an enjoyable visit.

This is certainly a place I intend to visit again.