A visit to Bishopsbourne and Womenswold

Our next meeting will take us to the picturesque, and picturesquely named, villages of Bishopsbourne and Womenswold, where we will once again see and hear some small but interesting instruments. Both churches date from the 13th century, with many interesting features.

We start at 2.00 p.m. at St Mary's, Bishopsbourne, with short talks about the church, the village's three literary worthies (Joseph Conrad, Richard Hooker, and Jocelyn Brooke), and the small Walker organ by Julia Lister and Stephen Banfield, followed by members playing. We will then move on to St Margaret of Antioch, Womenswold, for about 3.15 p.m., for a talk about the church, the 1894 F.H.Browne organ, which has one or two unusual features, and some information about a very interesting 18th century gentleman who lived in the village and had a unique organ in his house. Michael Lewis will give the talk and demonstrate the organ, after which members may again play. Tea will then be served.

Driving along the A2 from Canterbury to Dover, Bishopsbourne is signed at the end of the Bridge bypass. The church's postcode is CT4 5JB. Parking is in front of the church and along the adjacent lanes. We then continue back along the A2 towards Dover, taking the Wingham exit. Womenswold is on the signposts, and the postcode is CT4 6HE. The journey will take 7 - 8 minutes. There are two car parks which will be signed (and a map will be provided at Bishopsbourne). 

The cost of the day will be £8, payable on the day, covering tea and a donation to each church. Please book with me by the end of Monday, 8th April, to guarantee the availability of a tea. We look forward to seeing you.