It was interesting to read in the April edition of “Source” Graham Smith’s comprehensive account which detailed the history of New Lanark. We had a different New Lanark experience on our Church coach excursion. The high rainfall prior to our visit was demonstrated by the lush green landscape. What a privilege it was to travel through this unspoilt Scottish countryside. Our courier Raymond ably pointed out interesting facts on the journey and the rain only fell when we were travelling on the coach!
We enjoyed our welcome coffee stop at the magnificent 18th century building, Lockerbie Manor Hotel. We all sadly remembered the tragic evening of December 21st 1988 when a Pan Am flight exploded in mid air after a terrorist bomb was detonated over Lockerbie and all passengers and crew with eleven people on the ground were killed.
Our primary venue was the restored cotton mill village of New Lanark which is now a World Heritage Site. Over 200 years ago the impressive sandstone mills were built by an enterprising Scot, David Dale, in a dramatic gorge close to the famous Falls of Clyde.
The village soon became known worldwide under the enlightened management of Dale’s son-in-law, the social pioneer Robert Owen. In an age of cruel mill managers and “dark satanic mills” he provided decent homes, fair wages, free health care and a new education system which included the first nursery school in the world.
Our passport ticket enabled us to explore the many attractions. We were entertained by a most informative audio visual show of Annie McLeod’s school days in 1820.
The life and work of the villagers became apparent when we saw and heard the working textile machinery, visited the village store and the mill workers’ and Robert Owen’s houses. On the millennium ride we discovered Robert Owen’s inspiring vision for the next millennium. The stunning scenery from the new roof garden and viewing platform was amazing.
A fitting ending to the day was a return visit to Peebles Hydro for a most enjoyable high tea. The first people’s Hydropathic, built in the 19th century, was an establishment where people went to take water cures. Unfortunately, this hotel was destroyed by fire but in 1907 Albert Thiem opened a new hotel costing £37,000. This hotel prospered until World War 1 when it became a convalescent home for naval officers and in the Second World War it was turned into a military hospital for the Edinburgh Territorials.
The Peebles Hydro has always been able to adapt to new circumstances enabling generations of guests to enjoy the hospitality.
Once again we thank Raymond and Margaret for a memorable day, their careful planning and precision timing. We thank them most sincerely and greatly appreciate the time and effort spent arranging these successful days.
Mary Younger
|
