Going away for a few days in the UK, in March, can be a bit of a gamble weatherwise - torrential rain, high winds, snow, hail - any or all, are a real possibility. How lucky was I, then that dry weather prevailed for almost all of my 7 days away?
First stop was picturesque West Wycombe. Just 30 or so miles outside London, this pretty historic village lies in lovely open countryside just a short distance from High Wycombe.
Walking on a bright, beautiful morning, we turned into Church Lane and continued to Church Hill - out in the open and enjoying wonderful views.
Through old woods of Yew, Holly, Oak and Beech.
Until we reached, right at the top, St Lawrence's Parish Church. (Sorry there's no photograph of this impressive building). The modest car park was chock full of trailers - very unusual according to my friend Sarah - and there was also a very big crane and lights. The whole area was being turned into a set, ready for filming - but what?Down below again, temporary road signs for 'BH' were in evidence. That night powerful lights created drama and a 'ghostly' mist drifted across the sky above the Church and the imposing Dashwood Mausoleum - again no pictures. This often happens, because I'm too busy living the moment and only remember the camera afterwards!
The word was out the next day: BH refers to Burke and Hare, the 19 Century grave robbers and the production of the same name, a black comedy thriller directed by John Landis, starring Simon Pegg aka 'Sean of the Dead', Isla Fisher and Ronnie Corbett among others.
We returned the next morning (see the photo at the top of this post). Look at the gates of the Mausoleum, now transformed into 'Greyfriars Churchyard'. The metallic sign is cardboard! Between the actual churchyard and mausoleum, several gravestones were lying on their side. A quick tap revealed that they were made of polystyrene - I can't tell you how authentic they looked!!! Amazing.
Anyway, on with the tour. Across the valley (below) is West Wycombe Park, home of the Dashwood family.
Just look at these historic dwellings on the High Street.
Constant traffic unfortunately.
The 15 Century Church Loft. Great clock! There was once a whipping post underneath.
That's all for now. Time for me to see what's been happening in Blogland! Bye for now, Lesley
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