The weather forecast looked poor as around a dozen NNPS pilgrims arrived outside the Priory but the heavens thankfully did not open. Some said the threatened thunder and lightning may have made for dramatic shots but the prayers of the many were answered.
We were welcomed inside the museum area by Tim Lynch of English Heritage who explained much of the priory’s history and layout using a large graphic, a model and also some impressive recreations, generated himself with the assistance of AI, of the once magnificent buildings and interiors.
The tour continued outside and down to the west front facade and west range - it was intended to be awe-inspiring for both pilgrims and royalty and indeed it remains so almost nine centuries later. It was now possible to appreciate the sheer size of the whole complex here.
Tim first took us inside and we all negotiated the extremely tight spiral stair to the prior’s lodgings - it would definitely have not accommodated a Friar Tuck. The prior lived in relative warmth and comfort to his monks but at night they all slept as one in the dormitory. After viewing the prior’s private chapel we viewed the guest lodgings (not normally open to the public) used by kings and queens often whilst travelling on pilgrimage to the shrine at Walsingham.
We continued on our tour around the whole site with many interesting buildings and their uses explained, including the dormitory and vast adjoining two storey reredorter latrine block emptying into a stream uncomfortably close to the fishponds, kitchens and brewery - maybe adding to the flavour.
Finally back around the cloisters and down the nave. We thanked Tim for his excellent tour and then wandered the site looking for interesting photographic angles whilst the rain still rain held off.
We gathered for a chat and decided that we would not take holy orders as worshipping eight times a day seemed a little excessive and the tipping point was the first service beginning at 2 o’clock in the morning. So it was off the the Ostrich hostelry for lunch (eventually) and a drink. Feeling suitably bolstered by a drink, a small band of brothers continued down to the old castle before leaving for home.
May I ask those who took images yesterday to send me one or two (or more) of their favourites to pass on to Tim at English Heritage, if of course you are happy for him to use them (usual club competition size of 1600x1200px will be just fine). Please send to eventsorg@nnps.uk - very many thanks
GF
Comments
What a great write-up, thank you and for organising the trip, which I very much enjoyed. I'll send you a couple of photos shortly.
Thanks again Graham, that sums the day up nicely!
I'll endeavour to have another look through my photos ASAP and will be pleased to send you a couple.