It seems that this outing was a resounding success, in particular due to some excellent organisation by Moira Turner. 94 people set off in two coaches from Edinburgh. First stop was the Crown Hotel in Biggar, where the staff had prepared for our arrival with the cups, scones, jam, etc. all laid out ready to pour teas and coffees for such a large number of people.
Then it was on to Dumfries House itself, just as the sun came out to stay for the day. Splitting us into four tour groups, each with a specific tour time, was no simple task, but thanks to Moira's careful preparation and clear instructions it all went like clockwork, even bringing words of praise and thanks from the Dumfries House tour guide organiser.
High Tea was at the Fenwick Hotel, where the catering also went very well for such a large number of guests. afterwards everyone was eventually persuaded to get back on the coaches for the return trip to Edinburgh, despite being reluctant to leave such on such a pleasant sunny evening.
All round, it sounded like a great trip. Many thanks to Moira Turner and her willing helpers for such a carefully planned and executed day out. I'm sorry I missed it (away on holiday sailing in the good weather of the West Coast of Scotland).
Then it was on to Dumfries House itself, just as the sun came out to stay for the day. Splitting us into four tour groups, each with a specific tour time, was no simple task, but thanks to Moira's careful preparation and clear instructions it all went like clockwork, even bringing words of praise and thanks from the Dumfries House tour guide organiser.
High Tea was at the Fenwick Hotel, where the catering also went very well for such a large number of guests. afterwards everyone was eventually persuaded to get back on the coaches for the return trip to Edinburgh, despite being reluctant to leave such on such a pleasant sunny evening.
All round, it sounded like a great trip. Many thanks to Moira Turner and her willing helpers for such a carefully planned and executed day out. I'm sorry I missed it (away on holiday sailing in the good weather of the West Coast of Scotland).
Footnote (for those who missed the trip):
Dumfries House in Cumnock is the former home of the Marquis of Bute and was saved for the nation through the efforts of HRH The Duke of Rothesay (a.k.a. Prince Charles). The house contains a magnificent collection of original Chippendale furniture among many other artifacts, all of which were scheduled to be auctioned at Christie's in London before HRH intervened at the eleventh hour. 94 of our pensioners will now be recommending their friends to visit it!
