Sadie Curtis from Leeds WI who had arranged all the previous visits to the Romney Marsh Churches (see previous year's blogs) had arranged an 'extra' visit - this time and we were not dissappointed. As usual our coach took us to The Royal Oak for coffee and biscuits where our guide joined us. We continued to the Church of St Thomas the Martyr, mentioned in 1215 as being situated in Winchelsea which was a seaport on a shingle beach (which was completely demolished in 1280 in a dreadful storm)
This picture shows only the Chancel with two chapels each side. A Transept was built which would have been infront of the current building and extended from left to right of the picture, but it fell into disrepair and was demolished. Although there was originally a plan for a nave, it is not thought that this was ever built
these pictures give no idea of how wonderful they are - and are worth the trip alone
a side altar
one of the tombs, with the face of a Green Man in the top section
lots to look at
Jane and Peter viewing the Blue window - picture 2.
We followed this with a walk around the well laid out small town. When the new town was built most of them were given cellars, probably used for the sale of imported wine.
Look out for adverts for 'Open garden weekends', and 'Open Cellar weekends' well worth a visit.
Returning to the Royal Oak at Broadlands we had a good Ploughman's lunch and then on to Appledore, which was also a port in the 13th Century until it became silted up. Appledore was once a Viking stronghold, and later in 1380 the French burned the town, and the current church - St Peter and St. Paul - built subsequently. Again an unusual building. Finally to Brenzett for a WI Tea.
Unbelievably for 2012 - a sunny day - A day satisfying all our senses including our stomachs!
