My photographic diary - a record of places visited and things seen, including the history found in our many villages, and nature in its many forms. They are, above all, my memories --- "For what is a person without memories? - a ghost, trapped between worlds, without an identity, with no future, no past"
Tuesday, 18 October 2022
The Abbey - Celebrating 1000 years in sculpture
Tuesday, 4 October 2022
Castle Acre and Massingham
Day two on our stay in Happy Valley, and we headed to Massingham and had a lovely lunch at the Dabbling Duck, before moving on the Castle Acre to see the massive ruins of the Norman Castle (which gives its name to the town)
The castle was built by William de Warenne soon after William the Conquer gave him the land. It was lived in by his family until the early 14th century, when it fell into ruin. Considering how old the ruins are, a fair amount has survived.
The Bailey Gate is one of two stone gatehouses added to the settlement's massive earthwork defences in about 1200. The main road into the village still runs between its towers.
Adjoining the castle grounds are the ruins of one of the largest and best-preserved monastic sites in England dating back to 1090. It was the home of the first Cluniac order of monks to England and the Cluniac love of decoration is everywhere reflected in the extensive ruins. It was the castle we came to see so we did not visit this site.
Glamping in King Nutkins, Happy Valley, Grimston
This year we celebrated 50 years of marriage (how time flies!) and beside celebration meals, we were given a holiday in Norfolk by our wonderful family. Rather than waste the day we were travelling up there, we went early in the day and detoured to Sandringham - see the previous post, before a short journey to King Nutkins, where we would spend the next two nights.
It was a magical site in the woods, with only 6 vans on site, but where the owners had converted their farm building to a fabulous wedding site overlooking a lake surrounded by beautiful gardens. The Vans looked down over the venue but discreetly placed.
Monday, 3 October 2022
Sandringham - the Royal residence
Friday, 23 September 2022
Broadway Folly and the quiet village of Stanton
Chipping Camden
The word “Chipping” is derived from the anglo-saxon word “Chepping” meaning “market”. Hence, we find Chipping Norton, Chipping Sodbury etc. This was also the derivation for “Cheapside” the big market in London.
The Grade II listed entrance gates to Old Campden House
Overall, a wonderful place to visit with all its history. Lunch was had in a pub/ cafe overlooking the High Street. A wonderful way to finish our visit.