St Alban's

On the Saturday after Thanksgiving (the same day I went over to Sally's, as it happens) The Medieval Society had a much-needed excursion out of the city to St Albans. Twenty minutes outside of town, St Alban's is a vibrant little place and was having their famous Saturday market when we showed up.

 The once-abbey-now-cathedral is home to england's very first martyr. It's a funny old church made up of disparate elements and cared for by a highly engaged community. They very clearly love their old abbey, with a refurbished shrine, exhibitions and multi-denomentational services. Our little tour guide was adorable.

Some architectural highlights
    The heavy, ancient Norman tower over the crossing

    Some surviving paint in the arches in the nave and in the pilgrim's shrine
    The "Watching loft" where monks could spy on pilgrims
    Miniature fan vaulting in the chantry chapel

After a nice long look at the church, our group tromped down the hill to Ye Olde Cockfighters, claimed to be the oldest pub in England, which foundations dating back to the original Norman church (aka old). We had lunch and drinks and enjoyed the homey atmosphere.

What a great day!