Each August instead of the usual WI Meeting we get out and about. Last year it was Hollingbourne Millenium Green for a lovely picnic, but this year we decided to go to Cliftonville to the Living Museum - The Walpole Bay Hotel.
Leaving Grey skies over Hollingbourne we stopped for a leisurely brunch in Birchington, and then followed the coast road round to Margate Harbour to inspect (from the car) the New Turner Centre, which is well on the way to completion. By the time we reached the Walpole Bay Hotel the sun was trying its best to shine. Two members who are also Bowlers notice the Indoor bowling centre and made enquiries regarding a future venue for a Hollingbourne Short Mat Bowls fixure .
The Hotel was built in 1914, and is being restored by the Bishop Family. - apart from the decor and architecture of the time and a ballroom with original 1920's sprung maple floor, the whole place is full of old memorabilia, and equipment. There is a lovely flower covered veranda and lots of events throughout the year. At the time we visited its programme included being part of the Burlesque on the Beach festival with ladies such as Sassy Sparkle and Jeu Jeu la Follies, and a Grand Ball on 21st August. It is a full time Hotel and can be contacted on 01843 221703 or its website is http://www.walpolebayhotel.co.uk/.
We had been looking forward to our cream tea, and we were not disappointed - it was delicious! The teapot, water and cream jugs were all original, enscribed 'Walpole Bay' and had been found hidden in the basement when the present owners took over.
By the time we left the hotel the sun was shining, and we were able to enjoy a walk along the Prom taking in the sea air - a great way to spend a day.
OUR JULY MEETING BROUGHT 10 VISITORS!
It was a great success, with Jane Marshall our speaker/singer enthusiastically testing our larynx, diaphragm and posture before encouraging us to sing. We tried individual notes, and sounds, and finally sung in three part harmony (At least that was what she said it was). We all felt much better for it.
Finally with our tea, we had three autumn cakes to taste. One was a cider cake, another with cinnamon icing, and a beautiful looking cake glazed with apple slices. C & H fabrics have a competiton for a cake that will be produced and sold in their tea room this Autumn - and we were choosing one to represent Hollingbourne WI. The winner by a short crumb, was the Cinnamon cake made by Joyce Riggall. As we had eaten them all up, Joyce will have to make another to submit to C & H Fabrics - well done Joyce.
