Menonday Abootery; Journeying On

The tucked-away park up in Oldham proved so peaceful I slept far longer than usual, waking only at about 0830h! It was still a bit dripsy-dripsy, but there was promise of the rain starting to cease at last. As I had a late breakfast, a man approached and called out. Turned out he was the resident of the home at the bottom of this hollow and was only concerned in case it proved to be an abandoned vehicle - something he has had to deal with on a few occasions, it seems. He didn't mind at all that I was parked there, it being a public space, although right beside his home. It was actually nice to know someone was paying attention.

Around midday, The Grey and I trudged back up the rather steep little hill that found us the place and back on the road. The initial plan was to get to a place called Settle... but this turned out to be a mobile situation. I had noted in the morning when assessing the route, a place called Whalley Abbey that I decided I would quite like to visit. The cafe was getting five stars, and I would be ready for lunch by a little after one pee emm when I got there.

What a gem! Cafe Autisan gets five stars from me... as does the abbey ruins and surrounds.

That egg sandwich was absolutely perfect in ratio and mix, and the salad was tastily dressed with Balsamic and honey. Locally baked bread... it was way more filling than I expected, and this was excellent value at £6.50, including the pot of Earl Grey tea.

I took endless photos around the grounds, so just a few here, more later per usual... and there will be some video. Eventually. I am supplying the info boards because I found them really interesting and hope that you will too. Additional interest is that this place remains active in its sacred purpose, as the Tudor house is maintained and used for retreats and conferences, and the chapel holds several services a day, in keeping with the traditions you will read about on the boards. (Yes, you will need to biggify...)

Found in the meditation walled garden:

"The kiss of the sun on a pardon

The song of the birds for mirth

One is nearer to God in a garden

Than anywhere else on earth."

...So, did I end up settling in Settle for the night? Did I heck...

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