I didn't get to the NEC this year. I thought about it, but decided to prioritise Manchester.
But my 7/4" gauge Tug went, with Steve letting Don and Lawrie drive it, I must check my insurance.
What I did get to, twice in one week, was Jodrell Bank
Watching the iconic dish move on those rails was strangely moving.
I nearly went to Jodrell Bank once, early in 1987, walking from Chelford Station to Goostrey Station, but there were high winds so the whole site was shut that day.
ReplyDeleteDuring the walk, I saw not a single person, not even a passing car. It was all a bit surreal, perhaps as if the world had ended, especially as the dishes at Jodrell Bank were laid over on their backs, presumably the reduce their windage. The one small pub I passed was all closed up and looked like it had been for some while, with thick dust on the windows.
Apparently, my maternal Grandfather worked at Jodrell Bank, driving an excavator during its construction, though that may be Family Legend.
I really must get back there one day.
The story of the early days is fascinating. Something I didn't know is the part the Cat & Fiddle played in it. Goostrey is a good example of an LNWR modular station building, an idea I have filed away for much later use.
ReplyDeleteAnother (fairly) local place that I've yet to visit. I can see the big dish from one of my regular mountain bike routes, when the weather allows, so maybe a closer look would be interesting.
ReplyDeleteWe don't need to go far from home to see it, in fact I'm often amazed how far the views stretch. After years in the Fens I find it really hard to judge distances from high up. And of course the weather can change that perception radically. we went pas the Roaches under blue skies yesterday, and came back in low cloud. It was like tow different landscapes.
DeleteI can leave town in sunshine, then find the Cat & Fiddle enveloped in fog.
DeleteThe snow was so bad one day we only knew we were at the Cat & Fiddle was by the endless line of t**ts who'd parked along the road so two cars couldn't pass
DeleteA few weeks ago, I realised that I've never been here, and started looking at options. Your photos are just extra inspiration.
ReplyDeleteI would say it is a place to spend half a day, depending on your interest level, and try and avoid being there when school visits are likely.
DeleteMy other top tips are to research the history a little before going, take the time to watch the various film shows - check the timings for some of them, and be prepared to go back to the history exhibition after you've been round the site. Some of it makes a lot more sense in context.