We took the 9:49 train from London Bridge station to Headcorn where we were met and promptly swept away to visit Sissinghurst Castle. This was owned by the writer Vita Sackville-West and her husband Harold. It is now part of the National Trust but there are still family residing on the premises. It is known mainly for the gardens. They are indeed English gardens. We arrived early enough so that there were many other visitors and it was just lovely being able to walk around in peace. Although most folks that go way out there are not your average tourist. It looked like mostly women's groups meeting for lunch.
We were through exploring the gardens and John took us to a local pub, Three Chimneys. Lunch was excellent and there was lots of talk of travel and grandchildren. Fully sated, we headed out to the shore passing fields of sheep, cows, and rolling green hills. Winchelsea beach runs for miles - no sand, just pebbles of every size imaginable. We were walking along the beach, when Geoff looked down and spotted a beautiful piece of sea glass. This was highly unusual here. Not sure how he managed to spot it, but it will have a special place among the collection at home.
Before leaving the town, we went into the church built in 1288. It was wonderful being the only ones inside and being able to really look around. Spike Milligan, an old time actor/comedian, is buried here.
We all agreed it was time for coffee, so we headed to another medieval town, Rye. Had a cuppa and walked the cobbled streets of Rye. Beautiful views at the tower gate overlooking the river. Wonderful old village.
John gave us a quick tour their town of Tenterden, before eventually going back to their house. John did point out the spot where Henry VIII built his fleet in Tenterden. It's a beautiful town, slightly bigger than Fairhaven. We pulled into their driveway around 5pm or so.
Decided on taking the 7:46 train back to London. Sue through together a wonderful assortment of goodies for supper. Smoked salmon, cheeses, salad. More talk and laughs and then it was off to the station.
It was absolutely wonderful to spend the day with those guys. We could not thank them enough. We only hope that we can return the same some day. New England awaits them.
The train ride was pretty fast getting back. It was a lovely evening so we
decided to walk the Thames path home. When we got to the Scoop there was a big to do. These guys were bringing in these statues for display. The artist was there as well. We watched this show for a while "Put it there,no there, turn it this way, no that way." It was quite entertaining. The sky was getting darker and the city lights were coming on so we hung around and enjoyed the scenery before heading across the Tower Bridge.
We are nestled in are apartment now planning tomorrow's events. Again I would like to say thank you to Sue and John for a most memorable day.
Next time...Hampton Court Palace
The Gardens are quite beautiful as well as the surrounding countryside. Oh, I only see 2 chimneys on the tavren. The 4 of you look very compatible and rested. See you in Court.
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