Outings for 2024 were arranged for the properties below

DateVenue
Tuesday 23rd AprilCroft Castle (NT) & Webbs of Wychbold
Wednesday 22nd MayLittle Moreton Hall & Biddulph Grange (NT)
Wednesday 24th JulyRockingham Castle & Gardens
Tuesday 13th AugustBerkeley Castle (HHA)
Tuesday 10th DecemberAttingham Park – Myths & Legends Theme

Croft Castle & Webbs of Wychbold. Leaders – Sue Oates & Denise Dulson

After weeks of prolonged rain. we were rewarded with a fine day for our first outing of the season.  Croft Castle is situated in beautiful Herefordshire countryside which made the coach journey very pleasant.  The castle has been owned by the influential Croft family since 1085.  They were forced to sell it in the 18th century but it was repurchased in 1923.  In 1957 it was bequeathed to the National Trust but the family retain one room upstairs.  Our guide, Philip, told us that the original building was severely damaged in the Civil War and the present home is a mixture of styles from the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries. Philip also told us several fascinating tales which showed just how influential the family had been throughout history. After a walk in the extensive walled garden, we set off for Webbs garden centre where there were plenty of retail opportunities to round off an excellent day.  
Many thanks to Sue and Denise.

Little Moreton Hall & Biddulph Grange. Leader – Janet Clews

Little Morton Hall is a moated half-timbered manor house built in the early 16th century.  
Our guide, dressed as a Tudor servant, gave us an informative talk  in the main hall, in front of a food-laden ‘board’.  She pointed out the differences between the high end of the table and the low end and how this reflected social status.  She told us about many of the sayings we use today which originate from that time. Her bodice was, of course, ‘strait-laced’. 
The house with its crooked walls and uneven floors shows evidence of conservation in many rooms. The top-heavy appearance is due to the long gallery that runs the length of the upper floor.  This was strengthened some years ago by National Trust. 
Biddulph Grange garden comprises many different gardens from around the world including Chinese, Egyptian and Italian.  The views are spectacular although the poor weather meant that we did not fully appreciate them. It’s certainly worth coming again on a fine day. 
Many thanks to Janet for organising a trip back in history. 

Rockingham Castle. Leader – Margaret Jones

We had the Castle to ourselves as it was a private visit. An excellent guide gave us a detailed account of its history dating back to William the Conqueror. It is still a family home. The gardens were explored and admired: particularly the recently planted David Austin rose garden. The views were amazing and at one point five counties could be seen. Everyone enjoyed the day and we were so lucky to have sunny weather too. A really remarkable place. Margaret Jones.
Thank you Margaret for a lovely visit.

Berkeley Castle. Leader – Louise Platt

Berkeley Castle is a stunning medieval castle which has been the home of the Berkeley family since 1153. The first castle was a motte-and-bailey, built around 1067. Edward II was murdered here.
We had beautiful weather for another fascinating day out.  At the Castle entrance we were told about the “Trip steps,” where invaders rushing into the castle tripped up the steps as they were of different depths. So, we had to take care. Edward Jenner’s house was just outside the castle, next to the church. Some of our group visited Jenners’ house and found it fascinating.The visit was booked by Vivian who was unable to join us but Louis took over the organisation of the trip. Also thank you Janet for checking the coach arrived on time today. The three of you make a grand team, so all 41 of us could relax and enjoy ourselves.
Margery Williams