Members of SoFA enjoyed the second outing of 2023 to Quarry Bank Mill on 23rd May. The weather was fine and sunny which showed off the magnificent Quarry Bank spring gardens at their very best. We were made very welcome by the staff at Quarry Bank Mill and everyone found plenty to see and do at this exceptional National Trust property.
At Quarry Bank Mill we explored the lives of a complete industrial community at one of Britain’s greatest heritage sites. The working mill machinery in the weaving shed and cotton processing shed could be seen and heard. The many volunteers showed us the fascinating stages and hard work involved for raw cotton to be turned into a finished woven fabric. The huge water wheel and two steam engines were seen in good working order in the basement of the mill. There was an excellent exhibition on the fourth floor which was well worth a visit.
Samuel Greg built the mill and opened it in 1784, his vision was for a one stop shop for spinning cotton on an industrial scale. Samuel and his wife lived in Quarry Bank House next door to the mill. It was was quiet and peaceful compared to living in Manchester. We explored Quarry Bank House in its beautiful setting along with the Apprentice House. We had a guided tour of the Apprentice House and were amazed to discover that 90 children who worked at the mill lived there. Although we may have thought the conditions were tough for the children, it was far better than the alternative, the Workhouse.
The gardens at Quarry Bank are on many steep slopes but have been beautifully restored. The azaleas and rhododendrons were stunning at this time of year and we were lucky to see them at their best in full bloom. SoFA have made donations to Quarry Bank Mill for a number of projects over the years including the careful restoration of the curvilinear glasshouse. We were pleased to see the glasshouse looking so splendid in the spring sunshine during our visit. We all appreciated the fresh air and wonderful gardens and agreed that the outing was very successful.
Our next trip is to Holker Hall, a Lake District visitor attraction near Grange-over-Sands. This outing will take place on Thursday 8th June.
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Article and photographs by Lois Hughes.