We have talks in Autumn & Winter and trips in Spring & Summer each year. For further details see the current Contact magazine (via the Bookshop page).
Topsham is a picturesque, historic small town in a beautiful setting on the Exe estuary near Exeter. It was once an important port, particularly in the 18th Century. The winding streets are full of interesting buildings, independent shops and cafes. On the quayside is a large antiques centre.
We’ll be arriving about 11.30am, giving us time to explore the town and have lunch. We shall then gather at the Museum for our private view at 2.00pm. The Museum is a former merchant’s house just along the Strand, showcasing the history of the town and its inhabitants. After an introductory talk, we are free to explore the Museum and garden before sitting down to a cream tea, included.
Romsey is a quiet, flat ancient market town in the Test Valley, still retaining many independent shops including a functioning family- owned department store, Bradbeers, a regular market, many pubs, restaurants and cafes.
Our visit includes two tours to Romsey’s ancient Abbey and the quirky King Johns House, both near each other and the splendid tourist information office where we shall all be given a cloth bag with maps and information about Romsey.
Romsey Abbey has a history spanning 1100 years. In the 10th century it was a Benedictine Abbey for Nuns and during the reign of Henry V111th the Guardians of the Abbey bought it for £100 and it is still owned by the people of Romsey. King Johns House was one of the buildings bought with the Abbey and has had a chequered career. Records go back to the 16th century and it is thought the Nuns used it but it fell into dissolution and in the 19th century was described as a tenement. It has now been restored, has a delightful garden and cafe and its current manager spins a lively tale about its history.
On the trip Angharad and Sara will divide you into two groups to visit each venue.
There are no included meals but if anybody would like to book a cream tea at St Johns House please let Sara know on the coach and she will phone through the orders.
Knightshayes was designed by the eccentric William Burges for John Heathcot Amory in 1869 but Burges was sacked and replaced by John Dibblee Crace whose work was covered up by the family but later restored by the National Trust. In 1944 the house became a rest home for the US Air Force. The formal garden was designed by Edward Kemp in the 19th century, fell into disrepute but was magnificently restored by Sir John and Lady Heathcote Amery after the Second World War.
It is a large house and visitors are put into groups of 6 to explore the ground floor. The house is complemented with extensive grounds which can be explored freely.
There is a gift shop, a plant and outdoor centre, the Stables Cafe and the Conservatory tearoom with in and outdoor seating.
2023 Frome Festival – Monday 10th July 2023 – At Frome Assembly Rooms at the rear of Frome Memorial Theatre (BA11 1EB).
For the 2023 Frome Festival we are excited to have Ian Keable talking about ‘The History of Cartoons from the 17th century to the present day’. The early stages of cartoons will be traced – think Hogarth and Gillray – up to the present century – think Private Eye and Gerald Scarfe.
Ian is a successful author and performer who started his working life as a chartered accountant but then took an unconventional turn and became a member of the Inner Magic Circle appearing on numerous TV programmes with a special brand of comedy magic. He cut his teeth working on the comedy club circuit and held his own alongside comedians such as Jo Brand and Graham Norton. As an accrediated lecturer for the Arts Society he regularly gives talks on cartoons, satirical prints and 18th century hoaxes. Venues have included The Dorchester Hotel and The Cafe Royal.
Advance booking for Society members has closed. Tickets are now only be available from the Frome Festival Box Office at £12.
Ian’s talk promises to be insightful, well-illustrated and amusing so be sure to get your tickets early. Doors will open at 7pm, the talk will start at 7.30pm.
Members of FSLS on stage at the Bristol Hippodrome on Tuesday 21st February 2023. We hope to arrange another visit in Autumn 2023. Please watch this page for more details.
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