Saffron Walden

My U3a bus pass group had an outing to Saffron Walden on Friday. Saffron Walden is a lovely picturesque market town with a history dating back to the Neolithic period. It is believed that a small Roman settlement and fort existed as an outpost of the much larger settlement to the north. The town was originally just called Walden, derived from the old English 'walhdenu' meaning 'valley of the Britons'. In the 16th and 17th centuries the saffron crocus was widely grown, thanks to the town's favourable soil and climate, and that industry gave Walden its present name - Saffron Walden.

At the heart of the town lies the historic Market Square, where markets have been held since 1141.

Opposite the square is the lovely old library building 

with some nice bright open spaces

I love the sentiment but the grammar is very bad! I'm sure it should read either "Time spent is never wasted" or "Times spent are never wasted" I was contemplating telling a member of staff, but didn't!

There are lots of lovely independent boutiques, shops, and cafés

and lots of charming cottages

the church is magnificent

The Fry Art Gallery is a lovely little building showcasing an impressive number of paintings, prints, illustrations, wallpapers and decorative designs by artists of the 20th century and the present day who have connections to the area.

I really wanted to get a photo of the whole wall but people kept getting in the way! This represented the cattle markets from years gone by.

this sculpture represents many of the artists in the collection

Beyond the gallery and this lovely house is a serene garden

We had a lovely day with sunshine.

oOo

I catch a bus into town from a neighbouring village. When I left that morning there was a Canada Goose at the pond flying around making a lot of noise. I wondered if he was protecting his mate from possible predators but didn't have time to investigate. When I returned I looked around and sure enough there was Mrs Goose on the little island sitting on her nest.

I think she has chosen well. That white statue is in memory of Godfrey who used to be the resident patriarch of the pond. I hope it will deter predators.

∼ Be safe and well∼ 

Polly x