Planned trips
A Trip to the Black Country Living Museum
This is proposed for next year. Watch this space. - Val
Recent Past Trips
Wednesday 30 September 2026 Day Trip to Hampton Court
The trip to Hampton Court on Wednesday was a great day out for everyone involved. Smaller than I had originally thought, we had time to visit all the state rooms and public areas.
Photo © Gill Hawkins
King Henry's apartments sprawled across most of the first floor, and although sparsely furnished, left a sense of the opulence he surrounded himself with.
Photo © Gill Hawkins
The Georgian rooms gave an insight into the lives of the first Hanoverian kings which was equally fascinating. A trip to the kitchens completed the tour.
Photo © Gill Hawkins
Outdoors, it was a pleasant sunny day to walk through the gardens and marvel at the topiary and fountain. Many thanks to Val for organising it. - Gill
Photo © Gill Hawkins
For lots more information on Hampton Court visit the Historic Royal Palaces website https://www.hrp.org.uk/
Thursday 30 July 2026 Day Trip to Highclere Castle
Members enjoyed a lovely day out at Highclere Castle, home of Downton Abbey. We were all excited as we drove up and rounded the corner and the familiar building came into view.
Photo © Gill Hawkins
Most of us headed straight for the restroom and café, sitting in the sun under the parasols.
Photo © Gill Hawkins
Walking through the house was a bit surreal as we all remembered various scenes from the television series in each of the main rooms. There were plenty of photos and information about the filming and some of the staff had interesting anecdotes to tell. Sadly, we couldn't take photos indoors!
After lunch most of us explored the extensive grounds and gardens, whilst some less able bodied people sat in the shade and people-watched. A very pleasant day and many thanks to Joy Saville for organising it.
Photo © Gill Hawkins
- Gill
7 June to 13 June 2026 Residential Holiday based in Chester - Please see full report and photos here.
A contingent from our u3a has been on a holiday based in Chester from 7 June to 13 June. Please see full report and photos here.
Photo © Richard Herbert