AUTUMN OUTING TO DURHAM

Our Autumn outing found a group of us exploring Durham. After a coffee in the mediaeval Prior’s Hall formerly the Prior’s Dining Room in monastic times. We had a very informative tour of the cathedral with two excellent guides. We learnt about St Cuthbert and the Venerable Bede and whilst exploring the beautiful Romanesque architecture we saw the fabulous Rose Window. We visited St Cuthbert’s shrine and saw the tomb of the Venerable Bede within the cathedral. The Open Treasures exhibition was a trail through the cloistral buildings of the monk’s dormitory and great kitchen with displays of the Cathedral’s incredible collections on the way. We viewed a special exhibition of very ancient maps which was fascinating.

Moving on in the afternoon to Crook Hall and Gardens, an exceptional house demonstrating three major architectural styles, Mediaeval, Jacobean and Georgian.  Maggie Bell, the current owner enthusiastically explained the history of the house and the many ghost stories associated with the various rooms. The gardens are beautifully laid out to many little secret areas. After a welcome cup of tea and delicious home-made cakes we are returned homewards.