This was from a month ago, when my friend Gay was staying. Sorry there's no photo of the outside, but there was a gaggle of folk in the way, talking. HERE is the National Trust link that shows you how the manor house looks.
It was originally a farmhouse, but was then radically extended and changed. The old part of the house was from the doors at the back of the staircase backwards, and the grander squarer rooms lead off the main entrance.
This looks to be in a later style than the other rooms - 30s perhaps- with a stuffed otter - a very blonde one.
A Cobra with stuffing problems!
There were four beautifully curved corners to this room and the mahogany furniture had clearly been made to measure and suit. However, only two pieces survive.
I hope you can at least read some of the description and history below on this beautifully embroidered child's bodice.
And now to the best bits. Kitchen today, and the yard with all its other appurtenances, over the weekend.
I love the simplicity of this. In the corner is, I believe, the old Copper, for wash days. Mum had one, but hers was free-standing and ran on gas. It started with very hot water for the white wash - sheets. Then gradually going through the clothes as the water cooled and ending up with blankets - in high summer, so you could dry them on the line.
Quite a well-stocked pantry. Jams and pickles needed though! The old meat safe on the cool floor, though on a scorching day like today, I still think any meat would soon be on the turn.
Sorry this is so dark. I didn't use the flash.
Such a homely comforting room.I still use a clothes horse like this (actually I have three, from when I sold more textiles at Fairs). One was from Keith's family and one from mine. They are for airing clothes but I use them in the yard for drying them ever since the rotary dryer fell foul of he flying polytunnel and all ended up in the pond . . .
Two more parts to come - the court yard of buildings which dealt with laundry, dairy, brewing, bread making etc. Then a bit one of the kitchen gardens.
Enjoy your weekend.
