GROUP OUTING TO BRIDDLESFORD FARM
Another Ryde Social Heritage Group Outing was arranged by Shelagh Gaylard with help from Ann Barrett. Various venues were considered and Briddlesford Lodge Farm in Wootton was decided upon.
On 16 May a sunny day dawned, and in the afternoon 26 Members and Guests, were greeted at Briddlesford by Mrs Christine Griffin. The party was split into two: one group viewed the working farm, and the little pigs while the other group visited the Heritage Centre.
Mrs Judi Griffin, gave an interesting talk about the Griffin family members and the development of the farm. With a grant from the National Lottery the Hop Kiln Heritage Centre (free entry) had been developed and opened this year. The Centre originated from Mrs Griffin and her grand-children collecting up discarded farm implements and learning how they had been used in the past. The Heritage Centre has two floors and, as well as farm equipment, also on display are some photographs of the people who have worked at the farm since 1823 when the Griffin family took over the care of the land, The Heritage Centre gives a wonderful insight into farming life in the past.
After visiting the Farm and Heritage Centre our group enjoyed a delicious cream tea in the Bluebell Restaurant before visiting the Farm Shop.
Thanks to the Griffin family for their hospitality and to David Bushell for taking the photographs.
Another outing is planned for November, to Carisbrooke Castle, with possibly refreshments to follow !!!