7th July - Day at Gawthorpe Hall

Phil picked Brian and I up from my parent's place at about 11am and we followed Google's directions. They were ok until we got near the Hall when we were directed into a cul-de-sac! We eventually found the place. Sharon (the organiser), Chris, Norman and a few others were already waiting in the car park. I was introduced to Chris's friend Pam who had persuaded him to join us today. Elaine, Tim, Sandeep and Leanne arrived not long after us and by the time we set off there were 25 of us altogether. We noticed there were far more 25+ people than Gatherers even though they had organised the day. The walk route through the woods was fairly flat, but very muddy. I was glad I wore my boots. About half way along the route we stopped for lunch. Eventually we arrived back at the hall. We headed straight for the tea shop where we had scones with jam and cream. Phil and I had Earl Grey Tea and the others had coffee.
We then went for a look round the hall. Pam and I were particularly impressed with the embroidery exhibition and I think the others enjoyed it more than they were expecting to. We took photos outside the hall and then met the others back in the car park.
We then drove to the nearby Fencegate pub for the evening meal. We found that they weren't serving food until 6.30pm so we sat and chatted until then. Menus were put out and we ordered food. Phil and I had smoked cheese and pork sauasages and Brian,Chris and Pam had Steak and Ale pie. The chips were proper chunky chippy chips. Brian and Pam ordered chocolate pots for dessert and Chris had Sherry trifle Creme Brulee. I sampled both and they were very nice. We carried on chatting until after 9pm and then set off for home. The roads were fairly quiet so it didn't take long.
I'm really glad I went today as it was a very good day.