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Hawkinge, Acrise and Paddlesworth trip to Westminster Abbey – 17 October 2007

It was with great anticipation that we set out to visit Westminster Abbey; having already enjoyed trips to The Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace and Clarence House, and St Paul’s Cathedral – would this trip compare favourably?

Well yes it certainly did. Such a shame that we had to wait in the pouring rain for the coach after some fine days of sunshine and warmth but fortunately the clouds cleared just as we approached London and the sun reappeared.

I had no prior knowledge of Westminster Abbey but after a fact filled “Verger’s Tour” this was certainly rectified.

I had not, for instance, realised it is one huge graveyard with some very famous bodies buried there (some in very strange positions – and I don’t mean locations!); it seemed rather cluttered inside as over the centuries bits have been added on and is now full up so that present royalty have to be buried at Windsor! We started in the Jerusalem Chamber, not normally open to the public but as no meetings were being held that day we were invited to see it – it really has the WOW factor!

There is an original medieval ceiling which was quite wonderful and we were regaled by several stories of historic events that had occurred in this special room.

After such a great start it was a whistle stop tour – an amazing building and even if you are not in the least bit pious it is fascinating.

We were also privileged to visit the Shrine of Edward the Confessor, which again is an area not usually open to the public (was that an American tourist I spotted latching on to our group?!) The crowning glory was to see the coronation throne that has been used for many centuries – you would never believe it has had such an important role as it looks very battered and bruised – but it has great significance in our country’s history.

I’m not sure if we had preferential treatment on our tour but fortunately the lady in charge of bookings is a WI member and I’m sure made certain that we had a truly enjoyable time. For those wishing to we then took Holy Communion at the altar in the nave which rounded off a truly wonderful morning.

Off to lunch next with roast beef and apple pie – delicious; before going on to see Paul Day’s sculpture honouring The Battle of Britain. This is situated on the embankment. Paul’s mother was a member of our WI for several years and so it was marvellous to be able to see his brilliant work. (It was reported in the newspapers recently that he has just finished another sculpture to be erected at the refurbished St Pancras; so if you are ever in that station look out for it – I’m sure it will not disappoint).

Just time then to find the coach and wend our weary way home after another truly enjoyable WI outing.

Linda Barnes

Committee Member