A change of direction with our ‘away day’ as we travelled south initially to Thorp Perrow Arboretum situated near the historic town of Bedale and then to the Black Sheep Brewery at Masham.
The superb weather greatly enhanced the first venue at Thorp Perrow. Our coffee break overlooking the spectacular surroundings was idyllic. The Arboretum which covers 85 acres consists of a collection of native and exotic trees and shrubs planted mainly by Sir Leonard Ropner from 1931 onwards. It is now owned and managed by his son Sir John Ropner. It provided a wonderful environment for woodland plants, animals and insects. After exploring the woods and admiring the flowering shrubs we visited the bird of prey conservation and captive breeding centre. We were impressed with a flying demonstration which showed the ability and speed of several birds of prey. This was accentuated by a lively and informative commentary.
Our next venue was the Black Sheep Brewery, Masham, where the first brews were sampled in 1992. Paul Theakston, fifth generation of Masham’s famous brewing family used his inherited skills to make real beer. It is now available around the world. During our ‘shepherded tour’ we experienced the Black Sheep brewing process. The brew house is laid out in the traditional tower fashion and some of the vessels are 80 years old. We started our tour with the aroma and taste of English hops and matted barley and ended with some of our party sampling a complimentary glass of Black Sheep beer.
Our mystery evening meal venue was superb. After much intrigue we enjoyed an excellent meal at Whitworth Hall Hotel in the centre of a deer park. Robert Shafto lived here from 1742 to 1797. He was famous for the ballad “Bonnie Bobby Shafto”. He was also an M.P. for Durham City. The tradition of great hospitality at Whitworth Hall came from the days of the Shafto family entertaining royalty and public figures. It provided our party the perfect end to a wonderful day.
Everyone will have their own memories of this special day and we thank Raymond and Margaret for their impeccable planning which enabled us to enjoy such a full itinerary. Once again a great success.
Mary Younger
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