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FRIENDS OF BOLTON PRIORY OUTING TO BISHOP AUCKLAND
4TH DECEMBER 2025
An early start from Bolton Abbey found 23 members of the Friends enjoying a very welcome cup of coffee and mince pie in Bishop Auckland prior to our visit.
Twelve rooms were magnificently decorated at the Bishops’ Palace: included were the State rooms, St Peter’s Chapel and the Private Apartments. Winter warming
colours mixed with gold enhanced the glorious interiors of this historic building, once the home of the powerful Prince Bishops who ruled from this ancient seat of power.
Our Chairman, Richard, as befits his position, took advantage of the most prestigious chair, the beautifully decorated Bishop’s Throne. We were allowed to photograph him
doing a simulated sit and then he was kindly requested to vacate.
The Long Dining Room was spectacular. There were golden platters of frosted fruit, sparkling crystal and gold cutlery. We were amused to find that the cutlery was
actually plastic sprayed with gold but it was so convincing. The famous Spanish portraits, Jacob and His Twelve sons by Francisco de Zurbaran are hung in this room.
Taking centre stage in the breakfast room was a peacock and the Bishop’s Study was resplendent with appliqué birds and feather decorations.
The palace is home to a monumental 18th century Neapolitan Nativity scene, a presepe. It is 11 feet tall and 15 feet wide. There are over 421 individually carved
figures portraying classical and Christian mythology with the traditional folk culture of Naples. It is one of the most important examples outside Italy.
We were also able to visit the Faith Museum which explores over a 6,000 year period, the way in which religion, faith and belief have shaped the lives of communities
across the British Isles.
The Friends were privileged to be able to attend a special Evensong at the end of our visit in The Bishop’s Chapel. The service was taken by Canon Ian Gomersall who
deputises for the Bishop’s Chaplain when required. The lessons were read by our Chairman, Richard Watson and our Secretary, Susan Barker. Bespoke service sheets
were printed for the Friends for his service and are a lovely souvenir of a wonderful day.
Many thanks must go to Max and Susan Barker for their meticulous organisation of this event. It was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone who experienced ‘The Palace at
Christmas’.
Friends’ visit to wentworth woodhouse on 12 june 2025
AGM 12 May 2025
THE 2025 ANNUAL LECTURE - ALAN TITCHMARSH CBE
On a beautiful late spring evening showcasing Wharfedale at its most beautiful, the Friends of Bolton Abbey annual lecture was given by Ilkley‘s favourite son, Alan Titchmarsh.
In the magnificent surroundings of the Bolton Abbey Tithe Barn, Alan enthralled the capacity audience with the story of his career path from a 15 year-old trainee gardener with Ilkley Council to being a television personality, writer, poet and musical librettist . His anecdotes and humorous stories kept the audience in gales of laughter. There were however more serious thoughts he shared, for example the importance of nature and the outdoors, particularly for the next generation. In an uncertain world this was his solace, working alone in his garden, writing, and while he dearly loves people, this is how he finds a balance in life. It was a fascinating evening and a privilege to be there.
THE FRIENDS’ NEW FACEBOOK PAGE
FRIENDS VISIT TO PONTEFRACT CASTLE AND FARMER COPLEY’S
