Christmas at Ely Cathedral

Just like buses my posts - nothing for weeks and then two come along together!

Ely Cathedral

I did promise you more on Ely Cathedral a while ago but as you may have gathered from the paucity of recent posts (and apologies to those whose blogs I follow for the lack of comments) things have been a little fraught here recently. I'm not sure things will improve before the New Year however I really wanted to share Ely with you.

For a much better history of the building then look here but briefly Etheldreda (later Saint) founded a Christian community at Ely in 673AD. For centuries her shrine was visited by medieval pilgrims and the present cathedral was started in the 11th century.

Saint Etheldreda

I usually take a small camera about with me as it fits nicely in my pocket but sadly it does not do justice to a buiding on this scale so I've tried to capture the feel of the cathedral with more detailed shots, although I couldn't resist adding in some panoramic views to give you a sense of scale. I hope you enjoy this pictorial visit.

Andrew in admiration

Ceiling detail

Detail from a tomb

Repainted in the original colours - it would have been stunning

Tomb detail

Weeping cherub

The Victorian heating system still works

"Encounter" by David Wynne

 The cathedral has several pieces of modern sculpture which contrast beautifully with the ancient building. The one pictured above is of a distraught Mary Magdalene meeting Jesus on the morning of his resurrection and failing to recognise him.

This section of floor dates back to the 1320's

The cathedral also houses a wonderful stained glass museum with pieces spanning the centuries.

An English summer

Hello! Remember me? I'm the person who used to blog once a week, sometimes more, about life at Nelson House. Well I did until August hit that is. August should be quiet workwise for both of us, so we had planned lots of visitors and a list of things to progress the house but work didn't slacken off and I certainly wasn't going to cancel guests - we love our visitors! So progress on the house came to a shuddering halt and we just kept partying and are now officially exhausted. Rather than long prose, here is our August in photographs.

There was a lot of canine activity, particularly as several guests brought their dogs (much to Mortimer's delight) and there is a new guide dog trainee in the village - Hoby Hoy (H.H. for short),

Mortimer & Dexter - not sure Mr M is really trying!

Dexter & H.H wouldn't stop playing

Which did put Mortimer's nose out of joint somewhat

But he is adorable

And now he's grown a bit Mortimer is happy

Hunstanton is a firm favourite with guests and several trips were made. When the sun is shining what better place than a traditional seaside town?

Old Hunstanton beach

Andrew and the dogs enjoyed paddling

Dexter just loves to dig!

There were beach huts

and bowls

and music from the bandstand

and errant dogs.

As well as a dog who ate too much ice cream...

Are we nearly home yet?

Another favourite destination this summer was Ely which has a good mix of historical buildings, good independent shops and some lovely walks (and restaurants) by the river. We enjoyed the food and gift fair in the grounds of Ely Cathedral.

Ely summer food and gift fair

Several lunches by the river

The Great Ouse

and of course the cathedral

Andrew in admiration

I have got a post planned for Ely Cathedral later on - hopefully soon if September can calm down. Just a little. Please.