David's parents house.

Hexham, Northumberland. 2 September 2004

Rievaulx Abbey was the most important Cistercian abbey in England. It was founded in 1132 by Bernard of Clairvaulx, who was the Abbot of a monastery in France. The Cistercians were an order which preached a simple, ascetic life dedicated to God. They wore white habits, were forbidden luxuries like underwear, and were required to attend several daily services from the early morning to late night.

Yorkshire. August 2004

A general view of  Castle Howard. The contrast between the Palladian style (on the right) and the classical is evident. 

Yorkshire. August 2004

York has long been known as a railway town (indeed it is host to the National Railway Museum, which we didn't have time to visit). As in most towns, there is a large hotel next to the railway station but, unlike in many towns, York's still appears to set a high standard. 

August 2004

York City Museum is housed in a fine classical building opposite the castle.

August 2004

A general view of the remains of York castle.

August 2004

Lincoln is the county town of Lincolnshire, the county which forms the Eastern part of central England. Although now it is all too often passed by, in the Middle Ages it was a prosperous trading centre with strong links to Denmark in particular. Which is why the City could afford to build such a big cathedral! The oldest part still visible was built in 1250. It stands on a hill in the City centre, and dominates the surrounding countryside.

Blenheim Palace was designed by John Vanbrugh, ably assisted by Nicholas Hawksmoor. It took many years to complete in the first quarter of the eighteenth century. Inside, it contains many tremendous works of art including paintings, sculpture and furniture, as well as the interior itself.

July 2004

Scotland. 1 September 2004