There is nothing like a well deserved day off work, and even more sweeter when I can spend time with my lovely mum (Mumsy). So we planned a trip to Kings Lynn in Norfolk. It's just an hour's drive for us, so with the teenagers at school (Mr Teenager on a school trip to the Science Fair in London and Miss Teenager on a non uniform day due to Red Nose Day), off we set on our little excursion. The sun shone occasionally, the wind was bitter when it blew, but nothing was going to spoil our day. Just to see the colour of the fishing boats against the dullness of the river and the sky was reward indeed. The sound of the seagulls circling the boats as they landed their catch was exhilarating.
Further down another boat was moored, everything quiet here, just the sound of the waves lapping against the sides. The yellow was striking against the water.
Now for those of you in Canada, here is a treat. This is Captain Vancouver...
At his feet a bit more information...
He stands grandly in front of Custom House looking out to the river with anchors and chains trailing behind him leading to the old building.
This is the entrance (I have overlaid some information on this).
Now I do love a staircase and the architecture surrounding this one was gorgeous.
This is the Surveyor's Room...
The beautiful thing about King's Lynn is the mix of architecture. Tudor, Georgian, Victorian, more, it's lovely to see so much down one street. So let me take you on a walk...This is from the front of the newly named King's Lynn Minster, The orange building is on Nelson Street.
There is an opening in the house that leads into this delectable courtyard residence.
The cream building in front of this is called "The Valiant Sailor" and the former residence of Walter Dexter. I have fallen in love with the colour on the front door!
Then, turning round, this is the street leading down to the quay. I can imagine the creaking of the floorboards, the low windows and the feeling of walking down a room due to the beams moving (you can tell I used to live in a 16th century cottage!). There is no distortion on the photo, this is how it looked, can you imagine the sights and sounds that this wonderful building has experienced?
There are various alleyways down to the quay.
And stunning buildings along the way.
The newly named King's Lynn Minster is beautiful. St Margarets (which is it's original name) was my Grandparents' favourite church and where they came on their honeymoon.
It was so, so, so cold in there. My breath was white and I had the shivers, but oh, such beautiful architecture!
The stained glass was so vibrant.
This window was just beautiful...
There were wobbly arches...
and did I mention stunning architecture?!
Once the cold had really got to us through our layers, it was time to light a candle for my Grandparents.
And head down the quay towards the shops. On the way we came across this fantastic warehouse. So simple but so beautiful in its own way.
and then past the 15th century Trinity Guild...
Our purchases, well I bought more wool (now there's a surprise!) for another WiP I have in mind, however I am just waiting for Jan Eaton's 200 Crochet Blocks to arrive through the post! (I really must do a post on my projects but the light is still too dark for photos!). And my Mumsy, well she bought a lovely photo frame to put my Mother's Day card in.
Phew! That was a long picture trail for you. I hope you enjoyed your trip around King's Lynn in the comfort of your own warm and cosy homes.
Have a wonderful weekend.
P.S. If you haven't joined a Link Party before take a look over at Sunlit Sunday, it is her penultimate party and it is such a lovely way to meet other bloggers. I specifically took photos of Captain Vancouver for her as a gift to say thanks for hosting these over the weeks.
Take care.
