South Yorkshire Branch Proposal to Host the DSWA AGM
We hope to welcome you to South Yorkshire's best kept secret…
Wentworth Castle and the Stainbrough Estate
‘One of the nation’s most sublime parkland estates.’
Griff Rhys-Jones 2003.
One of the most important historic gardens in the North of England, this hidden gem from the 18th century opens fully for the first time in spring 2007. Not to be confused with the nearby Wentworth Woodhouse (and that’s a history lesson in itself regarding family feuds), This is the also home to the Northern College, an adult education resendential centre.
It captured the nation's imagination after being a runner up on the BBC TV series ‘Restoration’. Both the exterior of this magnificent stately home, and the secret gardens of the Earls of Strafford are being carefully restored in a major project supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund.
Most important with regards to walling is the Ha-Ha, plus accompanying features, such as the ‘Dry Stone Clapper Bridge’ and the Garden Features in the Wentworth Castle Folly, (which is so big that there are plans to host open air events in that area alone).
These are being beautifuly restored by Nigel Goody, David Griffiths, Simon Lumb and other members of the D.S.W.A. but of most importance is that the Ha-Ha is reputed to be the oldest on record at a mere 305 years old!
Rare formal gardens have been rediscovered, National Collections of Rhododendrons, Camellias and Magnolias enhanced, and over 100,000 bulbs planted throughout the 10 acre garden to create a carpet of colour.
Many of the 26 listed buildings and monuments across what is the only Grade 1 listed parkland and garden are being repaired and opened for visitors. With its atmospheric views, woodland walks and majestic follies - including a dramatic viewing platform at the top of a castle folly 600 feet above sea level - there is something for everyone to enjoy in the gardens all year round.
Beyond the gardens, over 50 acres of historic parkland can be explored via the Monument Trail; a new 2 mile path taking you through the beautiful countryside of Stainborough and linking several restored follies and native woods.
At any convenient time during the weekend, a tour of these splendid features on the estate can be arranged, at no cost….
Location and Ease of Access
Northern College is located around 4 miles from both junctions 36 & 37 of the M1 (and only three roads away), and close to the A628 from the Woodhead Pass and Manchester. It is also serviced by the Sheffield-Huddersfield Northern Rail Link (changeable at Barnsley Interchange, 4 miles away) with the local stations being Dodworth and also Silkstone Common, both approximately 2 miles away.
It should be noted that that the South Yorkshire Branch has already arranged a shuttle service over the weekend between both local stations and Wentworth Castle.
South Yorkshire Branch Examination Centre (4 miles away)
Located on the A628 (Woodhead Pass Road) in Hoylandswaine, this is our new training development project for the branch. Due to be completed in mid 2007, our centre will enable all Lantra and DSWA levels of certification to take place, including a vast array of features. Come and see what this little branch is doing, and keep an eye on developments, by logging on to southyorkshiredswa.org.uk
Whirlow Hall Farm, Sheffield (16 miles away)
Just 30 minutes drive from Northern College, This Educational Farm Trust is where our branch also holds training courses, practice meets and examinations. It is also the place where a memorial is presently under construction to our former chairman, John Lackenby.
The National Coal Mining Museum for England (13 miles away)
Come & see dry stone walling underground
The 17 acre site with a unique collection of buildings, displays and activities that reveal the hidden world of mining through the centuries; learn about mining methods and machinery, the miners and their families.
Wearing a hard hat and battery lamp, descend 140metres underground to learn how coal was hewn and moved to the surface. Here you will also see how dry stone walls played an important part in the mining industry.
New galleries show how miners lived, worked and relaxed. Take a ride on the locomotive, explore the Nature Trail and meet the retired pit ponies. Refuel in the Café, and pick up souvenirs in the gift shop.
On Saturday 24th November, prior to the AGM, we have already arranged for a full underground group tour for any number of our members and guests, plus we can arrange travel at a very nominal cost.
Yorkshire Sculpture Park (YSP) (9 miles away)
Essential viewing is the Yorkshire Sculpture Park, just off Junction 38 off the M1. Spread over the beautiful Bretton Country Park we will find works of notable repute, including the abstract work of Barbara Hepworth's in 'Family of Man', 'Molecule Man 1+1+1' by Jonathan Borofsky and Elisabeth Frink's 'Running Man'. Frink's work is mostly figurative and mostly male figures in bronze. The person who regularly ‘pops up’ within the dry stone walling fraternity is Andy Goldsworthy, who also has a number of exhibits here, and on the weekend of 24th November, an Andy Goldsworthy day is planned by the YSP.
On Sunday 25th November it is our intention to provide a visit to here, where a full guided tour of the sculptures and walling features of most interest to fellow wallers will occur. Plus again transport can be arranged at a very nominal fee.
A Suggested Itinerary for the Weekend
Friday Evening (optional)
7.30pm A Meal at the ‘Monkey’ Pub, now used as a setting for the longest running Sitcom in history, ‘Last of the Summer Wine’.
Saturday
10am – 3pm National Management Meeting (with ‘Open Door Policy’)
11.30am – 3pm Trip to the National Coal Mining Museum for England.
4pm – 4.30pm AGM
4.45pm – 5.15pm Presentation on Miniature Dry Stone Walling, by Malcolm Debenham. Don’t just think of this as a few walls, the skill and precision of his work in ’24scale’ is renowned throughout our region. Some of his other works include Barns, Farmyards and his passion, Outside Privy’s….
5.15pm – 7.30pm A break to give you time to get your ‘Glad Rags’ on…
7.30pm Evening meal and a presentation on Heritage Lottery Funding by Louise Clare, the Yorkshire H.L.F. Co-ordinator, including projects of interest to the D.S.W.A. and possible routes for funding.
9pm – End Soul or Blues evening of entertainment.
End – Other End Sample the delights of a night ‘RARND TARN’
(Those with stamina need only apply)
Sunday
8.30am – 10am Breakfast and vacating of room
11am Trip to Yorkshire Sculpture Park
3pm Return to Wentworth Castle
PLEASE NOTE…. WE ARE NOT TRYING TO WEAR YOU ALL OUT OR FINISH YOU OFF, WE’RE JUST TRYING TO ADD AS MUCH DIVERSITY AS POSSIBLE, PLUS MAKING IT FAMILY FRIENDLY…
Prices of Local Accommodation for the Members Weekend
It should be noted that as part of the booking for Northern College, it has been confirmed that we would be given full use of the function room, known as the ‘Blue Room’ for all of the Saturday events, FOR FREE.
Location Distance Cost Room Basis
from AGM
Northern College On Site £32 per person +VAT Bed and Breakfast
Blue Bell Inn, 3 Miles £48 per room Room Only
Dodworth, Barnsley (meals available)
Travel Inn, 5½ Miles £48 per room Room Only
M1 J36, Barnsley (inc. Families) (meals available)
Green Springs Camping 2½ Miles £10 – ––£15 per Pitch Restaurants, pubs & dare we
and Caravanning Site. (inc. Electric) say it ‘MacDonalds’ are
Worsbrough, Barnsley. available within 2 miles.
The Support from Other Branches & Possible Sponsorship
As part of this proposal for hosting the AGM and Members Weekend, we have liased with three of our neighbouring branches, West Yorkshire, Otley & Yorkshire Dales and the Derbyshire Branch.
The attitude towards the S.Y Branch hosting this event, and their promise of support in all areas has been extremely encouraging. Examples of this are W.Y.and also O&Y.D. offering help in any aspect required. In addition, Joanne Walker from the Derbshire branch is already researching several avenues of funding that may be available, which are specifically ‘ringfenced’ for South Yorkshire.
Evidence of her succes speaks for itself; Joanne has managed to raise around £6000 of grant money to help fund the Derbyshire Branch Anniversary programme this year.
OTHER PLACES OF INTEREST
Barnsley Tourist Information
Plenty of history, on the industrial revolution, with nods to engineers like Joseph Locke (1805-1860) who worked with Stephenson but made his own name building railways in the UK - Locke Park in Barnsley was donated to the people by his wife. Not to be confused with the Irish Tenor Josef Locke.
Forget the grim impression you may have of this former mining/linen/glass manufacturing Yorkshire town…… This is just some of what you are missing!
The Trans - Pennine Trail (½ mile away)
The Trans Pennine Trail passes less than half a mile from Wentworth Castle, and is a multi-user Trail for walkers, cyclists, in parts for horse riders and limited mobility users. It passes through or close to many of the major cities and towns of northern England - a quarter of the UK population live within 20 miles (35 km) of the Trail, so it is a great resource that everyone can enjoy in a variety of ways. Here you'll find information and advice to help you get out and explore the TPT. The trail links into Barnsley on railway paths, whilst the main routes offer different options for travelling.
Worsbrough Mill and Country Park (3½ miles away)
A Worsbrough Mill was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 and local historian Robert Shawland-Ball states that a "tenuous but continuous documentary record can be traced from then to 1625...A mill was a very important part of the feudal pattern of life and settlement and thus tended to remain on the same site if that site was a satisfactory one".
The New Mill originally contained a Watt beam engine which was replaced in 1922 by a 1911 model Hornsby hot bulb oil engine that still functions, but is not linked to a grindstone. The building is known to have been completed 1843 but was not present on a detailed map of 1840.
Cannon Hall (5½ miles away)
Cannon Hall is a country house museum located between the villages of Cawthorne and High Hoyland north of Barnsley. The site is recorded when the Domesday Survey of 1086 was conducted, originally the home of the Spencer and later the Spencer-Stanhope family, it now houses collections of fine furniture, paintings, ceramics and glassware. It also houses the Regimental Museum of the 13th/18th Royal Hussars (Queen Mary's Own) and the Light Dragoons.
Monk Bretton Priory (5½ miles away)
Barnsley is fortunate to have within its boundary the extensive remains of a Priory, originally founded under the Cluniac order, which offers much for the visitor to appreciate. The open space of the priory grounds and the views across the wooded countryside still convey the feeling of peace and tranquility as benefited monastery life. But this belies the turbulent and often violent past of this sleeping ruin.
It was founded in 1154 as the Priory of St Mary Magdelene of Lund by Adam Fitswane, sited here on the Lund, from Old-Norse ‘lundr’ meaning a sacred woodland grove. In course of time the Priory took the name of the nearby village of Bretton to be commonly known as Monk Bretton Priory. It has again come to recent notoriety as the probable place of one of the stories of Robin Hood, (WHO BY THE WAY, WAS A YORKSHIRE LAD FROM LOXLEY, SHEFFIELD).
Elsecar Heritage Centre (6½ miles away)
Here is an exciting Antique, History & Craft Centre, hosting a range of events and offering an interesting and fun day out for all the family. The site hosts the Elsecar Steam Railway, the Living History Centre, a Victorian Classroom, Beam Engine and major events venue.
Wigfield Farm (3 miles away)
This is a real working farm, run by Barnsley College with rare breeds and small animals as well as the traditional farmyard animals. It offers a fun visit for all the family. Refreshments, cafe, souvenirs and toilets available.
RSPB Old Moor (10 miles away)
The RSPB has excelled here with extensive visitor facilities, this is a fantastic place to watch wildlife and enjoy the mixture of habitats including open water, marsh, reed beds and grasslands. There is a visitor centre and two mobility vehicles for the less mobile visitors.
Penistone (5 miles away)
One of the historic Pennine market towns. Penistone is reputed to be the Highest one in Engalnd. The traditional Retail Open Market offers everything under the sun, attracting farmers, auctioneers, locals and visitors. It is also home to the Compton Theatre Organ, the only one of its kind in the country and holds regular organ recitals. The Penistone Paramount is a traditional cinema, complete with intermission ice creams and bar; it also hosts concerts, pantomimes and shows.
Barnsley Market (4½ Miles away)
In 1249, a Royal Charter was granted to Barnsley, permitting it to hold a weekly market and annual fair. With over 300 indoor and outdoor stalls, Barnsley Market is situated in the heart of Barnsley town centre. Located next to the Transport Interchange, it offers a wide range of bargain treasures and by enjoying a bustling atmosphere, the experience of Barnsley Market should not be missed.
Sheffield Tourist Information
Sheffield's industrial history is legendary - it was once known as 'the steel capital of the world'. Museums duly pay homage to such a past, but additional to this, Sheffield has developed into a city of culture, art and entertainment. Sheffield's secret is out - this city is a contemporary haven for art lovers. A choice of beautifully lit art galleries are on offer, as well the spectacular year round Winter and Peace Gardens under their glass dome frames. With several theatres and cinemas - Sheffield has it all…
Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet (16½ miles away)
For an introduction into steel making and metal work, Abbeydale is the place to start. This site has been used for iron making for over 500 years. Here you'll find forges, water wheels, crucible furnaces and more.
Wortley Top Forge (3½ miles away)
Wortley Top Forge is an historic former ironworks originally dating back to the seventeenth century, although evidence suggests iron working took place in the vicinity as early as the fourteenth century, and lies on the River Don.
Following the final abandonment of the site in 1929, various bodies have been involved in securing the site which now forms the heart of an Industrial Museum.
Wortley Hall (3 miles away)
Wortley Hall is a stately home built in the 18th century and was the seat of the Wharncliffe family until the Second World War. During the war the hall was used by the British Army, but after 1945 its structural condition deteriorated.
In 1950 a group of local trade union activists identified the hall as a possible educational and holiday centre, and established a co-operative which succeeded in purchasing the hall for those purposes. It was formally opened in 1951 and is currently used by several trades unions and other organisations as a venue for residential training courses and other meetings, as well as for purely social gatherings.
Millennium Galleries & the Winter and Peace Gardens (13 miles away)
The Millennium Galleries venue has 5 separate galleries - displaying works not only in visual art - but also in craft and design, with a particular metal work gallery. Like the Graves it often hosts visiting exhibitions, check the website below. Permanently displayed is the Ruskin Gallery, which shows not just paintings by Ruskin, but also papers, minerals, books and architectural plastering collected by the artist
Adjacent to the galleries is the magnificent Winter Garden and Peace Garden - encased in a glass dome frame the garden has year round beauty. http://www.sheffieldgalleries.org.uk/
Meadowhall Shopping Centre (14 miles away)
The metropolis Sheffield shopping mecca that is the Meadowhall Shopping Centre is a key attraction conveniently located just off the M1. What better venue than this for teaching the kids all about credit card debt and the slippery slope of consumerism - welcome to the Mall, as far as we know they haven't started jogging in them yet? www.meadowhall.co.uk
Doncaster & Rotherham Tourist Information
Doncaster and Rotherham are probably best known for Doncaster Racecourse, Rotherham United FC, Doncaster Rovers FC and the new International Airport, but it also has some other fascinating attractions nearby, examples of which are:-
Conisbrough Castle (16 miles away)
Dating from 1180, and famous for its association with Sir Walter Scott's novel 'Ivanhoe'. This site high up on a hill was the base of a castle as far back as 1066. The current cylindrical keep is thought to date around 1180, with other buildings around the bailey dating in the 13th century. http://www.conisbroughcastle.org.uk/
The South Yorkshire Aircraft Museum (34 miles away)
The South Yorkshire Aircraft Museum, Airborne Road, Dakota Way, Doncaster Leisure Park, Doncaster. On display are numerous helicopters, a commercial light aircraft exhibition and a Sheffield Blitz exhibition - set on what was once a 2nd WW aircraft base. http://www.aeroventure.org.uk/
Wentworth Park and Village (7 miles away)
The public rights of way through Wentworth Park have always been popular with local walkers. The highlight is the magnificent East Front of Wentworth Woodhouse (the widest house in the country!) with its equally grand stable block, but there are plenty of other buildings and sights of interest in the park. These include the famous follies of Hoober Stand, the Needles Eye Keppel's Column and the Mausoleum, plus lesser known features such as the Doric and Ionic Temples.
Rother Valley Country Park (20 miles away)
With over 300 hectares, it offers an extensive scope for many types of recreation including the water sports centre, cable water ski system, day fishing, outdoor play area, golf centre, orienteering, craft centre, cafe, visitor centre, toilets, refreshments and gift shop.
Magna Science Adventure Centre (15 miles away)
A fantastic interactive adventure through science, whether young or old. Come prepared as Magna is a 'coats on' experience. The cafe serves hot and cold food, snacks and drinks. Magna Store sells a unique range of souvenirs.
Wakefield & Pontefract Tourist Information
Wakefield and the Pontefract area have some stunning castles and some fantastic art on show in its central art gallery at Wakefield.
Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth
Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth were both born in Wakefield and both worked considerably in bronze, wood and stone sculpture. The Wakefield Art Gallery duly pays tribute to these two famous artists with the reclining figure in Elmwood (1936) by Henry Moore and early carvings by Hepworth. On the very contemporary side the gallery includes work by Matthew Smith, Paul Nash and Jacob Epstein.
Wakefield Art Gallery and the nearby Yorkshire Sculpture Park (mentioned earlier), offers a feast of exhibitions designated to the work of Barbara Hepworth. Her influence on British modernism art in the 20th century is renowned, as is her influence on Henry Moore - they were friends and studied together. There are also 9 bronze works by Henry Moore, born in nearby Castleford, on show. Magical and moving - don't miss it!
Holmfirth Tourist Information (13½ miles away)
There are shops galore in Holmfirth, where you can explore 'setted ginnels' and discover former weavers' cottages, art and craft galleries, including that of Barnsley artist Ashley Jackson. A favourite is the Indie clothes shop next door to Sid's Cafe - you have to walk through the Hardware store to get to it, so if you happen to need some snub nails or a bag of soil as well are you're trendy top you're sorted!
Last of the Summer Wine
The village serves fans well, with samples of 'Ivy's fayre' at Sid's Cafe, followed by a coach tour of the Holme Valley which takes in key locations in the series. For details contact Summerwine Country TV Location Tour on 01484 689610. This tour is renowned for its informative commentary, and takes in spots like the White Horse Inn, known as the Summer Wine Pub - its exterior was originally used in the series, (though the pub now used is ‘The Monkey’ in Hood Green, Barnsley, a mere one mile from Wentworth Castle.)
You can also visit 'The Last of the Summer Wine Exhibition at Scarfold, off Hollowgate, Holmfirth - Tel: 01484 681408. This exhibition is located in what was Compo's house in the series and it includes photographs and memorabilia.
Other Dry Stone Walling Attractions around West Yorkshire
Shibden Hall, Park & Dry Stone Walling Exhibit (35 miles away)
This is a permanent and unique exhibit built by the West Yorkshire Branch of the Dry Stone Walling Association in the grounds of Shibden Hall in Halifax and exemplifies all the skills of the Master Craftsman.
The exhibit draws together the highest standards of dry stone walling and interprets the characteristics and the practical applications of the craft in the landscape.
Completed in 2003, the project had the support of Johnsons Wellfield Quarries, who donated the stone, the Heritage Lottery Fund who provided a grant of £30,000, and Calderdale Council.
Working parties, practice days, workshops and training helped to create the exhibit and worked alongside Shibden's Education officers, rangers and gardeners to learn about the skill.
The spectacular conical cairns mark the top entrance to the exhibit. From the lower entrance, marked by closely dressed square-topped pillars, the path leads past a series of stiles and lunky holes through walling which gradually takes on a more relaxed field wall character until it curves upwards to the top of the site.
Within the exhibit, a circular pinfold half buried in the hillside displays the skills involved in building in a tight curve, and a set of demonstration walls show the various stages in building in dry stone. Different styles of topstone reflect the styles found in urban and rural landscapes, including half rounded topstones and "cocks and hens".
Park facilities
For those wishing a pleasant, relaxing day out there are many facilities available within Shibden Estate. Availability of individual facilities varies with the seasons. For further information please contact: (01422) 352246. General Park Enquiries & Events: 01422 393215.
Wentworth Castle and the Stainbrough Estate
‘One of the nation’s most sublime parkland estates.’
Griff Rhys-Jones 2003.
One of the most important historic gardens in the North of England, this hidden gem from the 18th century opens fully for the first time in spring 2007. Not to be confused with the nearby Wentworth Woodhouse (and that’s a history lesson in itself regarding family feuds), This is the also home to the Northern College, an adult education resendential centre.
It captured the nation's imagination after being a runner up on the BBC TV series ‘Restoration’. Both the exterior of this magnificent stately home, and the secret gardens of the Earls of Strafford are being carefully restored in a major project supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund.
Most important with regards to walling is the Ha-Ha, plus accompanying features, such as the ‘Dry Stone Clapper Bridge’ and the Garden Features in the Wentworth Castle Folly, (which is so big that there are plans to host open air events in that area alone).
These are being beautifuly restored by Nigel Goody, David Griffiths, Simon Lumb and other members of the D.S.W.A. but of most importance is that the Ha-Ha is reputed to be the oldest on record at a mere 305 years old!
Rare formal gardens have been rediscovered, National Collections of Rhododendrons, Camellias and Magnolias enhanced, and over 100,000 bulbs planted throughout the 10 acre garden to create a carpet of colour.
Many of the 26 listed buildings and monuments across what is the only Grade 1 listed parkland and garden are being repaired and opened for visitors. With its atmospheric views, woodland walks and majestic follies - including a dramatic viewing platform at the top of a castle folly 600 feet above sea level - there is something for everyone to enjoy in the gardens all year round.
Beyond the gardens, over 50 acres of historic parkland can be explored via the Monument Trail; a new 2 mile path taking you through the beautiful countryside of Stainborough and linking several restored follies and native woods.
At any convenient time during the weekend, a tour of these splendid features on the estate can be arranged, at no cost….
Location and Ease of Access
Northern College is located around 4 miles from both junctions 36 & 37 of the M1 (and only three roads away), and close to the A628 from the Woodhead Pass and Manchester. It is also serviced by the Sheffield-Huddersfield Northern Rail Link (changeable at Barnsley Interchange, 4 miles away) with the local stations being Dodworth and also Silkstone Common, both approximately 2 miles away.
It should be noted that that the South Yorkshire Branch has already arranged a shuttle service over the weekend between both local stations and Wentworth Castle.
South Yorkshire Branch Examination Centre (4 miles away)
Located on the A628 (Woodhead Pass Road) in Hoylandswaine, this is our new training development project for the branch. Due to be completed in mid 2007, our centre will enable all Lantra and DSWA levels of certification to take place, including a vast array of features. Come and see what this little branch is doing, and keep an eye on developments, by logging on to southyorkshiredswa.org.uk
Whirlow Hall Farm, Sheffield (16 miles away)
Just 30 minutes drive from Northern College, This Educational Farm Trust is where our branch also holds training courses, practice meets and examinations. It is also the place where a memorial is presently under construction to our former chairman, John Lackenby.
The National Coal Mining Museum for England (13 miles away)
Come & see dry stone walling underground
The 17 acre site with a unique collection of buildings, displays and activities that reveal the hidden world of mining through the centuries; learn about mining methods and machinery, the miners and their families.
Wearing a hard hat and battery lamp, descend 140metres underground to learn how coal was hewn and moved to the surface. Here you will also see how dry stone walls played an important part in the mining industry.
New galleries show how miners lived, worked and relaxed. Take a ride on the locomotive, explore the Nature Trail and meet the retired pit ponies. Refuel in the Café, and pick up souvenirs in the gift shop.
On Saturday 24th November, prior to the AGM, we have already arranged for a full underground group tour for any number of our members and guests, plus we can arrange travel at a very nominal cost.
Yorkshire Sculpture Park (YSP) (9 miles away)
Essential viewing is the Yorkshire Sculpture Park, just off Junction 38 off the M1. Spread over the beautiful Bretton Country Park we will find works of notable repute, including the abstract work of Barbara Hepworth's in 'Family of Man', 'Molecule Man 1+1+1' by Jonathan Borofsky and Elisabeth Frink's 'Running Man'. Frink's work is mostly figurative and mostly male figures in bronze. The person who regularly ‘pops up’ within the dry stone walling fraternity is Andy Goldsworthy, who also has a number of exhibits here, and on the weekend of 24th November, an Andy Goldsworthy day is planned by the YSP.
On Sunday 25th November it is our intention to provide a visit to here, where a full guided tour of the sculptures and walling features of most interest to fellow wallers will occur. Plus again transport can be arranged at a very nominal fee.
A Suggested Itinerary for the Weekend
Friday Evening (optional)
7.30pm A Meal at the ‘Monkey’ Pub, now used as a setting for the longest running Sitcom in history, ‘Last of the Summer Wine’.
Saturday
10am – 3pm National Management Meeting (with ‘Open Door Policy’)
11.30am – 3pm Trip to the National Coal Mining Museum for England.
4pm – 4.30pm AGM
4.45pm – 5.15pm Presentation on Miniature Dry Stone Walling, by Malcolm Debenham. Don’t just think of this as a few walls, the skill and precision of his work in ’24scale’ is renowned throughout our region. Some of his other works include Barns, Farmyards and his passion, Outside Privy’s….
5.15pm – 7.30pm A break to give you time to get your ‘Glad Rags’ on…
7.30pm Evening meal and a presentation on Heritage Lottery Funding by Louise Clare, the Yorkshire H.L.F. Co-ordinator, including projects of interest to the D.S.W.A. and possible routes for funding.
9pm – End Soul or Blues evening of entertainment.
End – Other End Sample the delights of a night ‘RARND TARN’
(Those with stamina need only apply)
Sunday
8.30am – 10am Breakfast and vacating of room
11am Trip to Yorkshire Sculpture Park
3pm Return to Wentworth Castle
PLEASE NOTE…. WE ARE NOT TRYING TO WEAR YOU ALL OUT OR FINISH YOU OFF, WE’RE JUST TRYING TO ADD AS MUCH DIVERSITY AS POSSIBLE, PLUS MAKING IT FAMILY FRIENDLY…
Prices of Local Accommodation for the Members Weekend
It should be noted that as part of the booking for Northern College, it has been confirmed that we would be given full use of the function room, known as the ‘Blue Room’ for all of the Saturday events, FOR FREE.
Location Distance Cost Room Basis
from AGM
Northern College On Site £32 per person +VAT Bed and Breakfast
Blue Bell Inn, 3 Miles £48 per room Room Only
Dodworth, Barnsley (meals available)
Travel Inn, 5½ Miles £48 per room Room Only
M1 J36, Barnsley (inc. Families) (meals available)
Green Springs Camping 2½ Miles £10 – ––£15 per Pitch Restaurants, pubs & dare we
and Caravanning Site. (inc. Electric) say it ‘MacDonalds’ are
Worsbrough, Barnsley. available within 2 miles.
The Support from Other Branches & Possible Sponsorship
As part of this proposal for hosting the AGM and Members Weekend, we have liased with three of our neighbouring branches, West Yorkshire, Otley & Yorkshire Dales and the Derbyshire Branch.
The attitude towards the S.Y Branch hosting this event, and their promise of support in all areas has been extremely encouraging. Examples of this are W.Y.and also O&Y.D. offering help in any aspect required. In addition, Joanne Walker from the Derbshire branch is already researching several avenues of funding that may be available, which are specifically ‘ringfenced’ for South Yorkshire.
Evidence of her succes speaks for itself; Joanne has managed to raise around £6000 of grant money to help fund the Derbyshire Branch Anniversary programme this year.
OTHER PLACES OF INTEREST
Barnsley Tourist Information
Plenty of history, on the industrial revolution, with nods to engineers like Joseph Locke (1805-1860) who worked with Stephenson but made his own name building railways in the UK - Locke Park in Barnsley was donated to the people by his wife. Not to be confused with the Irish Tenor Josef Locke.
Forget the grim impression you may have of this former mining/linen/glass manufacturing Yorkshire town…… This is just some of what you are missing!
The Trans - Pennine Trail (½ mile away)
The Trans Pennine Trail passes less than half a mile from Wentworth Castle, and is a multi-user Trail for walkers, cyclists, in parts for horse riders and limited mobility users. It passes through or close to many of the major cities and towns of northern England - a quarter of the UK population live within 20 miles (35 km) of the Trail, so it is a great resource that everyone can enjoy in a variety of ways. Here you'll find information and advice to help you get out and explore the TPT. The trail links into Barnsley on railway paths, whilst the main routes offer different options for travelling.
Worsbrough Mill and Country Park (3½ miles away)
A Worsbrough Mill was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 and local historian Robert Shawland-Ball states that a "tenuous but continuous documentary record can be traced from then to 1625...A mill was a very important part of the feudal pattern of life and settlement and thus tended to remain on the same site if that site was a satisfactory one".
The New Mill originally contained a Watt beam engine which was replaced in 1922 by a 1911 model Hornsby hot bulb oil engine that still functions, but is not linked to a grindstone. The building is known to have been completed 1843 but was not present on a detailed map of 1840.
Cannon Hall (5½ miles away)
Cannon Hall is a country house museum located between the villages of Cawthorne and High Hoyland north of Barnsley. The site is recorded when the Domesday Survey of 1086 was conducted, originally the home of the Spencer and later the Spencer-Stanhope family, it now houses collections of fine furniture, paintings, ceramics and glassware. It also houses the Regimental Museum of the 13th/18th Royal Hussars (Queen Mary's Own) and the Light Dragoons.
Monk Bretton Priory (5½ miles away)
Barnsley is fortunate to have within its boundary the extensive remains of a Priory, originally founded under the Cluniac order, which offers much for the visitor to appreciate. The open space of the priory grounds and the views across the wooded countryside still convey the feeling of peace and tranquility as benefited monastery life. But this belies the turbulent and often violent past of this sleeping ruin.
It was founded in 1154 as the Priory of St Mary Magdelene of Lund by Adam Fitswane, sited here on the Lund, from Old-Norse ‘lundr’ meaning a sacred woodland grove. In course of time the Priory took the name of the nearby village of Bretton to be commonly known as Monk Bretton Priory. It has again come to recent notoriety as the probable place of one of the stories of Robin Hood, (WHO BY THE WAY, WAS A YORKSHIRE LAD FROM LOXLEY, SHEFFIELD).
Elsecar Heritage Centre (6½ miles away)
Here is an exciting Antique, History & Craft Centre, hosting a range of events and offering an interesting and fun day out for all the family. The site hosts the Elsecar Steam Railway, the Living History Centre, a Victorian Classroom, Beam Engine and major events venue.
Wigfield Farm (3 miles away)
This is a real working farm, run by Barnsley College with rare breeds and small animals as well as the traditional farmyard animals. It offers a fun visit for all the family. Refreshments, cafe, souvenirs and toilets available.
RSPB Old Moor (10 miles away)
The RSPB has excelled here with extensive visitor facilities, this is a fantastic place to watch wildlife and enjoy the mixture of habitats including open water, marsh, reed beds and grasslands. There is a visitor centre and two mobility vehicles for the less mobile visitors.
Penistone (5 miles away)
One of the historic Pennine market towns. Penistone is reputed to be the Highest one in Engalnd. The traditional Retail Open Market offers everything under the sun, attracting farmers, auctioneers, locals and visitors. It is also home to the Compton Theatre Organ, the only one of its kind in the country and holds regular organ recitals. The Penistone Paramount is a traditional cinema, complete with intermission ice creams and bar; it also hosts concerts, pantomimes and shows.
Barnsley Market (4½ Miles away)
In 1249, a Royal Charter was granted to Barnsley, permitting it to hold a weekly market and annual fair. With over 300 indoor and outdoor stalls, Barnsley Market is situated in the heart of Barnsley town centre. Located next to the Transport Interchange, it offers a wide range of bargain treasures and by enjoying a bustling atmosphere, the experience of Barnsley Market should not be missed.
Sheffield Tourist Information
Sheffield's industrial history is legendary - it was once known as 'the steel capital of the world'. Museums duly pay homage to such a past, but additional to this, Sheffield has developed into a city of culture, art and entertainment. Sheffield's secret is out - this city is a contemporary haven for art lovers. A choice of beautifully lit art galleries are on offer, as well the spectacular year round Winter and Peace Gardens under their glass dome frames. With several theatres and cinemas - Sheffield has it all…
Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet (16½ miles away)
For an introduction into steel making and metal work, Abbeydale is the place to start. This site has been used for iron making for over 500 years. Here you'll find forges, water wheels, crucible furnaces and more.
Wortley Top Forge (3½ miles away)
Wortley Top Forge is an historic former ironworks originally dating back to the seventeenth century, although evidence suggests iron working took place in the vicinity as early as the fourteenth century, and lies on the River Don.
Following the final abandonment of the site in 1929, various bodies have been involved in securing the site which now forms the heart of an Industrial Museum.
Wortley Hall (3 miles away)
Wortley Hall is a stately home built in the 18th century and was the seat of the Wharncliffe family until the Second World War. During the war the hall was used by the British Army, but after 1945 its structural condition deteriorated.
In 1950 a group of local trade union activists identified the hall as a possible educational and holiday centre, and established a co-operative which succeeded in purchasing the hall for those purposes. It was formally opened in 1951 and is currently used by several trades unions and other organisations as a venue for residential training courses and other meetings, as well as for purely social gatherings.
Millennium Galleries & the Winter and Peace Gardens (13 miles away)
The Millennium Galleries venue has 5 separate galleries - displaying works not only in visual art - but also in craft and design, with a particular metal work gallery. Like the Graves it often hosts visiting exhibitions, check the website below. Permanently displayed is the Ruskin Gallery, which shows not just paintings by Ruskin, but also papers, minerals, books and architectural plastering collected by the artist
Adjacent to the galleries is the magnificent Winter Garden and Peace Garden - encased in a glass dome frame the garden has year round beauty. http://www.sheffieldgalleries.org.uk/
Meadowhall Shopping Centre (14 miles away)
The metropolis Sheffield shopping mecca that is the Meadowhall Shopping Centre is a key attraction conveniently located just off the M1. What better venue than this for teaching the kids all about credit card debt and the slippery slope of consumerism - welcome to the Mall, as far as we know they haven't started jogging in them yet? www.meadowhall.co.uk
Doncaster & Rotherham Tourist Information
Doncaster and Rotherham are probably best known for Doncaster Racecourse, Rotherham United FC, Doncaster Rovers FC and the new International Airport, but it also has some other fascinating attractions nearby, examples of which are:-
Conisbrough Castle (16 miles away)
Dating from 1180, and famous for its association with Sir Walter Scott's novel 'Ivanhoe'. This site high up on a hill was the base of a castle as far back as 1066. The current cylindrical keep is thought to date around 1180, with other buildings around the bailey dating in the 13th century. http://www.conisbroughcastle.org.uk/
The South Yorkshire Aircraft Museum (34 miles away)
The South Yorkshire Aircraft Museum, Airborne Road, Dakota Way, Doncaster Leisure Park, Doncaster. On display are numerous helicopters, a commercial light aircraft exhibition and a Sheffield Blitz exhibition - set on what was once a 2nd WW aircraft base. http://www.aeroventure.org.uk/
Wentworth Park and Village (7 miles away)
The public rights of way through Wentworth Park have always been popular with local walkers. The highlight is the magnificent East Front of Wentworth Woodhouse (the widest house in the country!) with its equally grand stable block, but there are plenty of other buildings and sights of interest in the park. These include the famous follies of Hoober Stand, the Needles Eye Keppel's Column and the Mausoleum, plus lesser known features such as the Doric and Ionic Temples.
Rother Valley Country Park (20 miles away)
With over 300 hectares, it offers an extensive scope for many types of recreation including the water sports centre, cable water ski system, day fishing, outdoor play area, golf centre, orienteering, craft centre, cafe, visitor centre, toilets, refreshments and gift shop.
Magna Science Adventure Centre (15 miles away)
A fantastic interactive adventure through science, whether young or old. Come prepared as Magna is a 'coats on' experience. The cafe serves hot and cold food, snacks and drinks. Magna Store sells a unique range of souvenirs.
Wakefield & Pontefract Tourist Information
Wakefield and the Pontefract area have some stunning castles and some fantastic art on show in its central art gallery at Wakefield.
Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth
Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth were both born in Wakefield and both worked considerably in bronze, wood and stone sculpture. The Wakefield Art Gallery duly pays tribute to these two famous artists with the reclining figure in Elmwood (1936) by Henry Moore and early carvings by Hepworth. On the very contemporary side the gallery includes work by Matthew Smith, Paul Nash and Jacob Epstein.
Wakefield Art Gallery and the nearby Yorkshire Sculpture Park (mentioned earlier), offers a feast of exhibitions designated to the work of Barbara Hepworth. Her influence on British modernism art in the 20th century is renowned, as is her influence on Henry Moore - they were friends and studied together. There are also 9 bronze works by Henry Moore, born in nearby Castleford, on show. Magical and moving - don't miss it!
Holmfirth Tourist Information (13½ miles away)
There are shops galore in Holmfirth, where you can explore 'setted ginnels' and discover former weavers' cottages, art and craft galleries, including that of Barnsley artist Ashley Jackson. A favourite is the Indie clothes shop next door to Sid's Cafe - you have to walk through the Hardware store to get to it, so if you happen to need some snub nails or a bag of soil as well are you're trendy top you're sorted!
Last of the Summer Wine
The village serves fans well, with samples of 'Ivy's fayre' at Sid's Cafe, followed by a coach tour of the Holme Valley which takes in key locations in the series. For details contact Summerwine Country TV Location Tour on 01484 689610. This tour is renowned for its informative commentary, and takes in spots like the White Horse Inn, known as the Summer Wine Pub - its exterior was originally used in the series, (though the pub now used is ‘The Monkey’ in Hood Green, Barnsley, a mere one mile from Wentworth Castle.)
You can also visit 'The Last of the Summer Wine Exhibition at Scarfold, off Hollowgate, Holmfirth - Tel: 01484 681408. This exhibition is located in what was Compo's house in the series and it includes photographs and memorabilia.
Other Dry Stone Walling Attractions around West Yorkshire
Shibden Hall, Park & Dry Stone Walling Exhibit (35 miles away)
This is a permanent and unique exhibit built by the West Yorkshire Branch of the Dry Stone Walling Association in the grounds of Shibden Hall in Halifax and exemplifies all the skills of the Master Craftsman.
The exhibit draws together the highest standards of dry stone walling and interprets the characteristics and the practical applications of the craft in the landscape.
Completed in 2003, the project had the support of Johnsons Wellfield Quarries, who donated the stone, the Heritage Lottery Fund who provided a grant of £30,000, and Calderdale Council.
Working parties, practice days, workshops and training helped to create the exhibit and worked alongside Shibden's Education officers, rangers and gardeners to learn about the skill.
The spectacular conical cairns mark the top entrance to the exhibit. From the lower entrance, marked by closely dressed square-topped pillars, the path leads past a series of stiles and lunky holes through walling which gradually takes on a more relaxed field wall character until it curves upwards to the top of the site.
Within the exhibit, a circular pinfold half buried in the hillside displays the skills involved in building in a tight curve, and a set of demonstration walls show the various stages in building in dry stone. Different styles of topstone reflect the styles found in urban and rural landscapes, including half rounded topstones and "cocks and hens".
Park facilities
For those wishing a pleasant, relaxing day out there are many facilities available within Shibden Estate. Availability of individual facilities varies with the seasons. For further information please contact: (01422) 352246. General Park Enquiries & Events: 01422 393215.
posted by The South Yorkshire Branch of the DSWA | 4:56 AM
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