Day 184 - July 3rd

Today we took Lara to the south coast again to meet up with some friends.

In the afternoon we spent some time on the seafront at Eastbourne.

We took a walk up the pier where we spotted this golden hippo and also visited The Victorian Tearoom for a bite to eat.

We saw the Bandstand which was built in the 1930s and is now an important venue for live concerts on the south coast.

And, we sat and watched the world go by whilst enjoying an ice-cream.

In the morning we visited nerby Michelham Priory the site of a former Augustine Priory.

The property was built by Augustinian monks in the 13th century, and is surrounded by England’s longest medieval filled water moat. In Tudor times it was added to and owned by Thomas Cromwell and Anne of Cleves and by World War II it became a base for Canadian troops, the East Sussex headquarters of the Auxiliary Territorial Service and in later life as a country house.

The house was open to the public and we were able to view rooms include Victorian and Tudor kitchens, an evacuee’s bedroom from the Second World War, a Prior’s room, and an Undercroft.

Outside we were able to explore the numerous different gardens.

We visited the Watermill. Unfortunately this wasn't open and the waterwheel looked like it hadn't turned in a very long time.

There were cattle sheds with a collection of agricultural wagons and artifacts.

There was also several barns and the largest timber framed barn dating from the 16th century is now used as a function room and for weddings.

It was a lovely relaxing day and a great way to spend a Saturday.