Stonehenge & Bath, England – 5000 Years Later (Walking Through History)
Day #3
Stonehenge, England
A light misting rain greeted us as we arrived at Stonehenge.
Since our tour bus was one of many buses queued, Lauren and I decided to hike the short mile path to the site instead of waiting for the delayed and crowded shuttle buses to depart. Speaking only in hushed tones, we walked quietly along the road side, observing the many sheep that dotted the green rolling hills surrounding this UNESCO World Site that archaeologists believe was constructed from 3000 BC to 2000 BC.
For the sheep, it was just another day. However for dad and daughter, the quiet walk added to the anticipation we both felt as we witnessed the stone structures appearing from almost out of nowhere on the horizon as we approached from the pathway.
The experience reminded Lauren and I of the time when we photographed Cadillac Ranch (Route 66) in Amarillo, Texas in a similar light rain. Sometimes the best travel memories are when the weather is not perfect and you have to improvise in the moment. This was certainly one of those experiences.
While the rain made photographing the stone structures certainly a challenge, it added to the allure, mystery and origin of this unique rock formation. The cloudy misting atmosphere which blanketed the massive domino shaped stones from above personally connected me to this eerie but at the same time peaceful area. Staring at the rectangular shaped stacked objects, I clearly sensed the combined feelings of awe, discomfort, disbelief and curiosity.
Nearly 100 stones in total, the largest 15 stones stand approximately 30 feet tall, weighing almost 25 tons each were transported here from nearby Marlborough Downs approximately 20 miles away. The stones sat motionless in a ring behind a wire barrier cord as we walked in a circle to view each vantage point of this amazing and peculiar archaeological site.
How did these colossal stones arrive here? What was the purpose of this site? If these stones could speak, what would they tell us?
Theories scientific and otherwise abound about the origin and purpose of the stone structures including; the site marks an ancient burial place, it was a one-time celestial observatory site to worship the sun (annually both the summer and winter solstices are celebrated here), possibly the location was one designed for healing and protection, and finally the stones were arranged by aliens arriving in UFOs.
Whatever the reason, it was an amazing experience to quietly walk around the site and wonder why and how on earth, did this mysterious site exist. The experience was both humbling and inspiring!
Bath, England
Next, we traveled east approximately 35 miles on the A36 arriving in Bath, England.
It was here where the Roman Baths reside. This site was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. Archaeologists believe the Temple was originally constructed nearly 2000 years ago between 60-70 AD.
But first, Lauren and I needed some lunch.
We dined at the oldest house in Bath, built in 1482 and home to the famous Sally Lunn’s Buns. Sally Lunn is a bun or teacake made with yeast dough including cream and eggs, similar to the sweet brioche breads from France. It is typically served warm and sliced with butter. It was delicious.
Tired after the long coach bus ride and coupled with hot tea, it made for the perfect snack!
We sat upstairs and enjoyed our meal in the living museum part of the restaurant which added to our Experience. The original kitchen and bakery dates back to 1622.
Down the street is a restaurant that sells the original London Bath Bun, more commonly known as the Bath Bun. This bun is small and doughy, and very sweet in comparison to Sally Lunn. Growing up in Philadelphia, the situation reminded me of how competing Philly Cheesesteak shops would open up in close proximity to one another. The most famous being Geno’s Steaks and Pat’s Steaks in South Philly.
We walked off lunch, up and down the winding cobblestone streets admiring the Georgian architecture, soaking in the old-world atmosphere. We took photographs of the Bath Abbey first founded in the 7th century. We captured some amazing images of the Abbey and Roman Baths in the public square that forms between the two structures.
Entering the Baths was like entering century old caves. The labyrinth corridors and archeological artifacts on display were simply amazing to behold. Eventually we made our way to the still discolored waters where the locals bathed and socialized. While it is unsafe to bath in these waters, you can purchase a tourist package which allows you and your fellow travelers to bathe in the nearby modern facilities known as Thermae Bath Spa.
For literary fans, Jane Austen lived in four separate residences in Bath from 1799 – 1806. In fact, each year in September, a Jane Austen Festival takes place in Bath. Events include theatricals, bus and walking tours of Austen sites, dance workshops and public readings all taking place around the city including the major venues such as Bath Abbey, the Pump Room and the Assembly Rooms.
Keeping with our daily consumption of local ales, we concluded our stay in Bath enjoying a few pints at The Huntsman. Built between 1748 and 1750, the location was originally as the Terrace Walk Wine Vaults originally run by a local wine merchant.
Both experiences literally and figuratively transcended time. The fact was not lost of me, that my daughter and I were able to walk on grassy fields and up and down cobblestone pathways with modern-day hand-held devises capturing images thousands of years old was simply amazing.
Living ancient history in the year 2018……
"Stand on hills of long forgotten yesterdays
Pass amongst your memories told returning ways
As certain as we walk today
We walk around the story"
Yes - The Remembering: High the Memory