The Forum members always enjoy a day trip and the visit to Tissington to see the well dressings was no exception. Fortunately the weather was lovely and sunny, so visitors were able to make the most of the local attractions, such as the church on the hill and the Methodist Chapel, as well as other facilities.

TISSINGTON WELL DRESSINGS VISIT.

On a hot, sunny day, 19 members enjoyed a special visit to Tissington in the beautiful, green, Derbyshire countryside.

This pretty village, complete with duck pond, was comfortably busy with visitors wandering around the six wells, admiring the creative & stunning handiwork of the villagers in their annual thanksgiving for the continuous gift of water. The dressings always have a biblical theme & one featured Jesus’ first miracle – changing water into wine at the Wedding at Cana – sadly, only water was flowing from this well as usual!

Refreshments were available from Herbert’s or the Village Hall. Numerous small marquees & stalls were to be found around the village along with several small businesses. The shopaholics amongst us were tempted by all the locally produced “goodies”to be found in the sweets & vintage home ware shop, candlemakers, gift shop, butchers (Derbyshire Oatcakes!) & plant nursery.

Also to be visited were St. Mary’s Church on  the hill & the small Methodist Chapel, which backed onto the fields. This had a simple, very appropriate water feature surrounded by stones & small plants on the altar.

A tour of the Hall & gardens completed the afternoon, made interesting by David, the guide, & his wife.  The FitzHerberts are one of only 200 families in the country who can claim that they still live in the house that they built over 400 years ago.    It is thanks to the commitment of the current owner, Sir Richard FitzHerbert, that the Estate’s farms, small local businesses & ancient traditions are all thriving within an unspoilt village atmosphere.   Sir Richard took a break from his duties as a parking steward to acknowledge our visit & chat briefly, before we boarded the coach “ tired but happy” as the saying goes.

Tania Brightmore