Bus Trippers Photos Jan-Jun 2017
Hospital of St Cross, Winchester - Fri 16th June 2017
There aren't too many occasions when you can be thankful for having a well padded rear end but this trip was probably one of them. Bouncing around on 6 different buses over a 10 hour period was certainly a test of a number of things for the 25 of us who did it. Luckily, there were a number of occasions for a break and sustenance on our marathon journey including a jolly nice lunch, efficiently served, at the Bell Inn, St Cross. The Hospital of St Cross was founded in 1132 to support 13 poor men and to feed 100 men at the gates each day. Clearly, women hadn't been invented then. These days, the Hospital houses 25 men referred to as the Black Brothers and the Red Brothers, each with their distinctive robes, hats and badges. One of the Black Brothers was our very interesting guide around the church, the medieval kitchen and the glorious gardens. Our tour ended with us claiming our dole of a morsel of bread and a horn of ale before we set off for more bus tripping home.
Midhurst Meander - Sat 6th May 2017
It's amazing what a difference it makes to a trip, having someone planning it, who actually knows what they are doing. Clive, one of our latest recruits, is not only an ex bus company man, but also an all round bus enthusiast. His selection of a wonderfully scenic route to Midhurst aboard the twice-a-week No 93 Emsworth & District bus was an absolute joy, made even better by the friendliness of the local users. After a delicious lunch at Garton's, there was another lovely scenic route on the No 60 to Chichester where, two hours having elapsed, it was obviously time for more tea and cake. It's a hard life being a Bus tripper.
St Mary's Hospital Almshouses, Chichester - Thurs 13th April 2017
If you've ever wondered what it would be like to walk through the wardrobe into Narnia, then try a visit to the St Mary's Almshouses in Chichester, where once through the heavy wooden door, you are transported to another world of peace and tranquility. The hospital has been on the site since about 1253. The barn-like structure has a large hall used as an infirmary at one end, and a chapel at the other, all under one roof. In the 17th century, it ceased to be a night shelter and the "poor and humble" residents were allowed to remain there for the rest of their lives. In the 20th century, the accommodation improved and expanded into neighbouring buildings providing homes for 30 residents and a number of staff. Inside the infirmary itself, there are 4 flats and one resident very kindly invited us in for a look around. Wonderfully cosy. A short visit to the lovely sunny chapel enabled us to try out and admire the world-renowned misericords. After reviving cups of tea and delicious biscuits, we were sent on our way, back into the real world. Sigh. Many thanks to everyone at St Mary's for making us so welcome.
Birdwatching Walk - Sat 25th March 2017
Very enjoyable couple of hours with a knowledgeable guide, John Arnott. We saw the following birds - greenshank, common gull, curlew, redshank and long tailed tit.
Blendworth Furnishings - Talk & Tea - Wed 15th March 2017
When Zig was a lad, his family lived in the house at Blendworth. Because of this, or perhaps despite it, we were allowed back for an informative talk and tea. Following a short history of the house, the manager gave us a very comprehensive introduction to fabric printing including the various methods used; the huge range of countries which specialise in the different methods and styles; and style trends throughout the decades which showed that new trends tend to be updated versions of recurring themes. Our critical senses having been awakened and honed, we were able to give our considered opinions on the fabric samples displayed. These ranged from "Ooh, that's lovely" to "I wouldn't give it house room" and "How much?!"
Grosvenor Casino, Gunwharf - Tues 28th Feb 2017
On a lovely sunny day, 13 members of the Bus trippers' group went to Gunwharf casino. Those that weren't casino members just showed a driving licence or passport and became members on the day. After free coffee we ordered a light meal which was very cheap and very nice. Some of the more adventurous in the group checked out the casino tables and slot machines. The less daring chatted and laughed. If you're on a visit to Gunwharf, the casino is a very welcoming stop off for lunch. An enjoyable time was had by all.
Groundlings Theatre Tour - Thurs 16th Feb 2017
12 members of the bus trippers group enjoyed a wonderful tour of the Groudlings Theatre in Portsmouth.
Originally a beneficial school. We learned from the tour guides who were all dressed in the attire of the period the very harsh regime of the young children including whipping and being put in the stocks. One of the former pupils was Henry Ayres who emigrated to Australia and became governor. Ayres Rock was named after him. We all went on stage and saw all the costume department. After which we all had tea and biscuits with the volunteer actors. It was a lovely experience enjoyed by us all. Definitely a worthwhile visit.
