Horncastle Christmas Victorian Market.

Yesterday we woke to a beautiful morning with the sun shining brightly albeit a little cold so we decided to have a another stroll around Horncastle this time around the Victorian Christmas market.  We arrived early so that we were able to get a car park space which filled up very quickly.  As we walked into the market we were greeted by an organ grinder playing some lovely uplifting Christmas music.

 

The florists to the left was stunning, a beautiful display of wreaths and bouquets, staff dressed in Victorian costume to add to the  beauty.

 

 

There was beauty at every level, the thatched roofs were a delight as were the Christmas trees adorning the buildings.

 

 

The traffic had been diverted around the town so it was completely pedestrianized with entertainment dotted throughout the market.  There was entertainment in many guises, to suit all tastes and ages. 

 

A Punch and Judy show, was a blast from the past reminiscent of my seaside holidays as a child.

 

 

 

There were several groups of carol singers, a band playing Christmas carols and a DJ blasting out Christmas songs.  With Radio Lincolnshire adding to the mix.  Wandering entertainers were also in abundance.

 

 

One of my favourites were the Morris Dancers, such an ancient tradition that was a joy to see.

 

 

The big man himself was also present which must have been amazing for the children.

 

 

Even the fire service were involved bringing out an old 1937 engine, it was brilliant to see it and chat with the firemen who do such a great job.

 

 

There was food aplenty which we tried on our way around, it certainly would have been rude not to.  I can say that the pulled pork, stuffing and apple bap was truly amazing.

 

There was a wide variety of stalls each one beautiful in its own way.

 

 

The shops were all open and added to the beauty with their amazing window displays.  I captured this next one which I found fascinating with its wondrous reflections.

 

 

I did have a few little treats which I will share on another post, I do have a very generous husband and sweet Mum.

 

 

 

An enchanting day out, making lots of lovely memories to treasure.  I am definitely enjoying the season thus far, how about you?

 

See you soon.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Five on Friday

I am once again joining Amy over at lovemademyhome.blogspot.co.uk/ for the weekly get together Five on Friday.  As most of you will know from my previous post I went down to my daughters for a few days this week to look after Honey and Bertie whilst she and her husband Matt went off for a few days to Cologne to the Christmas market to celebrate their wedding anniversary.  Gerard and I were honoured to be able to look after them.  My five this week are treasured memories of our time together.

One

Playing games with Bertie, he is such a joy.

 

Two

 

Watching my sweet husband with Honey he is so gentle with her.  Her wish is his command.

 

 

Three

 

Watching and supporting Bertie doing his homework, he seems to have grown up overnight.  He is sounding out words and reading.  A real delight to see him growing up and wanting to learn.

 

 

Four

 

Having a walk around Ampthill, looking at the beautiful window displays and buying a couple of extra gifts for the girls.

 

 

A real feast for the senses.

 

Five

 

Finally the joy seeing Amie and Matt so excited on their return, thrilled to see their children and us but revitalised having had a break away.    We feel blessed to have been able to help and it was a real delight to spend quality time with the children.

 

 

The photos are a gift from Cologne market which we have beautiful and treasured memories of from visiting years ago whilst we were serving in the Army. 

 

See you soon.

 

 

 

 

Afternoon Tea

I am back from my travels, after having a wonderful few days away looking after Bertie and Honey who are a joy.  Sunday saw us arrive in Ampthill to a very cold morning, heavy with frost.  It was so nice to be made so welcome into Amie and Matts home and be able to celebrate first advent with them.  Amie and I went off for afternoon tea along with Honey, the boys had a brilliant time doing boys things whatever that is.  We think they did a little secret shopping and then soft play, but even Bertie was not going to tell.

 

The tearoom was a delight, a feast in so many ways.  Not only the food, which was terrific the ambience of the tearoom was amazing.  There was so much to look at, certainly a great treat.  Honey was such a good girl and loved all the attention.

 

 

Let me take you on a little tour...

 

 

Even outside was set up for those quick hot chocolate moments, with crochet blankets to keep you warm.  Little trinkets here and there to admire, such a lovely collection.

 

Inside was a joy to behold, with a wide mixture of vintage china, a definite feast for the eyes...

 

 

The staff were also amazing, helping with the pram and getting Honey into the high chair.  Onto the food which can only be described as DELICIOUS.  Out came the sandwiches, along with smoked salmon crostini and crisps.

 

 

The teapot was refilled several times, they were very generous.  Then came warm scones with jam and clotted cream, sadly I forgot to take a photo.  I can say they were beautiful.

 

Finally a stunning cake stand of sweet treats...

 

 

Despite every effort made it was impossible to eat them all, we had to admit defeat and have some boxed to take home.  I had an amazing afternoon, spending quality time with my daughter and granddaughter in beautiful surroundings with delicious food and TEA, what could be better?

 

 

I  have a lot to do today, unpacking, cleaning and making a start on the Christmas décor, but I will try to catch up with everyone over the next few days.

 

See you soon.