Cheddar Gorge Caves

Cheddar Gorge is one of the most famous and beautiful cave systems in the world. After visiting a number of caves around the world, I'd have to say it is the most accessible and coupled with the audio tour - for kids and adults - its one of the most extensively explained and educational. 

The displays of stalagmites and stalactites, the dripping 'lava' effect of the calcium rich water over rocks and the fairy pools are a stunning display.  The Victorians began the fascination with caves, making 'show caves' where hey played with lights, mastering the dramatic atmosphere of the journey a tourist took and the views they had as they wandered further into the system. 

These photos are from the Goghs Cave, though we explored two others in the area as well. 

Glastonbury

Glastonbury Tor is surrounded by folktales and myth. St Michaels Tower stands firmly atop, the only remnant of an early Saxon church and monastery - which b the size of the top of the hill, must have clung to it unsteadily. Apparently it was destroyed by an earthquake. Its difficult to imagine such an event occurring as you look out over the flat landscape.  

The entire lands below were once flooded, which gives some substance to the story that this is the land of mist and Avalon. 

The path up to the tower is steep and follows some of the terraced banks which predate Saxon times. Its generally agreed that these paths were a spiral maze for pilgrims on their last trek towards the tower. There is also some evidence that it may be part of a larger labyrinth from the Neolithic times. 

For others, they believe that the top of the Tor is the entrance into the land of the Fay. Followers of the Goddess hold the space a sacred area. Arthurians believe that King Arthur ad Queen Guinevere are buried nearby. Seekers of the Holy Grail maintain that it is one of the higher possibilities that the grail is hidden here.  

In anycase, the short walk up the steep hill can tire many out and its through the continual steps that a sense of peace and tranquility it earnt. 

I've always loved Glastonbury and todays visit was one of the most beautiful and special moments I've experienced.  Its a deeply spiritual place and one where the deepest commitments and wishes can be voiced in the presence of the powers you may hold the highest. 

August the 1st is also a very special date, being the festival of Lugh. Its a Gaelic festival marking the start of harvest; the middle of the middle of summer - if that makes sense - a time where masculine and feminine energies come together as one and that the promise of fertility and harvest is at the highest. Traditionally, festivals are held on top of mountains and hills, so merry makers did the pilgrimage to the highest spot in their area to drink , dance and matchmake. 

Anglesey Abbey, Cambridgeshire

What a fascinating place! Angelesey Abbey is a Jacobean-style house with expansive gardens. The home was in ruins - as an Abbey wrecked during Cromwells reign of disaster and laid to waste for several centuries. An American family, cashed up with money from oil became interested in the area and one of the sons, at the age of 30, bought the ruin with the idea to create an English Manor house and fill it with his treasures.


Lord Fairhaven  wanted to create something that both inspired and surprised his visitors, and had always intended to gift his collections and home to the people through the National Trust.  He lived a very luxurious life which revolved around horse racing and shooting, and having high flying guests visit.
All of this is reflected in the silverware, the paintings and furnishings throughout the manor. its difficult to choose a favourite piece, but the silver clock, with its intricate carving, really took my eye.

I also loved to see some Constable paintings on the walls.


On the event of his death, his will stated that everything must remain as he he left it, which included pens on desks, and cups on mantle pieces. It looks as though he has stepped out and is due to return at any moment.

Its so difficult to rush through these homes as every room deserves hours of contemplation, reflection and research. It was Michaels first National Trust home and it was s delight to allow him space and time to look at the paintings and sculptures; though 2 hours was scarcely enough time to really look at everything.


The kids explored the expansive gardens and delighted us with their creations in the woodlands. Something that I love about National Trust places, is the space (and encouragement) for kids to build tree houses and dens.

The treehouse was incredible!  Three stories high..

 Anglesey Abbey has a wildlife discovery centre, which I know you could spend an entire day wandering around. The rose garden and the formal gardens were beautiful with the vistas of the landscaped areas taking our breaths away, and giving Michael a bigger appreciation of what travelling and experiencing places like this means to the kids and I.