Around Thirsk

We then headed to Thirsk where we were meeting our friends, Lorna and Keith. I had a quick shop before our meeting and managed to find a wool shop! We then had a yummy lunch at the White Rose Book Shop. Keith then kindly drove us around which was lovely. First we went to see the beautiful woodwork by the Mouseman. He made furniture in the 1800's and the business is still going today. Each piece has a little mouse on it. We visited the church and most of the pews etc were all made originally by him or by the family members that continued after him.

 We then went to Byland Abbey. This is an amazing ruin which must have been a very vibrant community before it was dissolved by Henry VIII.

 We also went to see the Rievaulx Terrace. This was once a folly where the family and guests had wonderful meals! They then walked or rode on the grassy terrace to look down on the ruins of the abbey.

 Our last visit was to a gorgeous village called Helmsley.

We finished our day with a yummy pub meal at the Whitestone Inn.