We had a wonderful time in Borrowdale. Weather very mixed, but mild. Could have, done without the tale end of the hurricane. It blew a hooley one night.
We visited many favourite old haunts, and some new places, which were very good. Grasmere is a beautiful village, and contains four super venues in a quarter of a mile, along one road. First is Barney's a. Jigsaw shop like no other, it must contain many thousands of them. Next is one of this countries best independent book shops. Followed by the Heaton Cooper Studio. They have had a change round which has revitalised the place, making room for a gallery showing pictures by the whole family, simply stunning. Well that's the three retail outlets. Let's just say, purchases were made in all three. After much browsing and shopping. We have to end the visit to Grasmere, with lunch at the Miller Howe Cafe. Just wonderful.
Two new venues this year were Hawkeshead, and Thornthwaite. Both lovely villages. Hawkeshead is were the Beatrix Potter Gallery is, housed in her husbands business premises. He was the local solicitor. I gather Healis still have offices locally. It was wonderful to see Potter's original drawings for many of her children's books. I was really surprised that she drew and painted them the same size as they appear in the books. They are really lovely.
In Thonthwaite,which is just off the A66 opposite Bassenthwaite lake. It has a gallery, which we have seen advertised over many years. Well a friend at the hotel said we ought to go, that it contained some lovely things. They were right. It was a mix of objects, pottery, glass,pictures,and furniture, any many other delights.
One way and another we were able to make a good start on our Christmas shopping whilst we were away.
What with a comfortable hotel, good food, relaxation, and a bonus day. It was a good holiday.
Chris
No comments:
Post a Comment