Pimms and Croquet in Edwardian Melksham - 8th September 2012 - Food Festival Event
Archive - Originally posted on "The Horse's Mouth" - 2012-08-05 21:22:29 - Graham Ellis
Picture the scene: The late summer sun shines down on expansive lawns mown in mathematically accurate strips. Warm air shimmers over the white stone patio that stretches the length of the southern extension of the red brick manor house. Damask tablecloths with crisply starched folds cover the refectory tables which groan beneath the weight of afternoon tea, including freshly baked cakes and juicy, refreshing cucumber sandwiches (with the crusts cut off!)Guests seek solace under the protection of large sunshades as they sip tea from china cups held in white-gloved hands, or clink the ice in their chilled glasses of Pimms made the traditional way: one slice of orange, lemon, apple, cucumber per person, one sprig of mint and two parts lemonade to one part Pimms No. 1 Cup. On the lawn, others have gathered for a gentle game of croquet.
Relaxing and sociable, croquet is an outdoor past-time in which players hit a ball through a series of hoops. The winner is the first to traverse all the hoops and hit a peg. The game suits both young and old, although since it requires a good eye, co-ordinated movement and logical thought rather than strength, agility or speed in order to play, it's particularly attractive to those who have enjoyed competing in sport in the past but for whatever reason no longer feel able to sprint around a field!
Come and celebrate the Englishness of afternoon tea on the lawns of an Edwardian manor house located in a charming market town in the heart of rural West Wiltshire.
Well House Manor in Melksham are holding their first Pimms and Croquet day on Saturday 8th September 2012 as part of the town’s annual Food and Drink Festival celebrations. On hand will be representatives from Swindon Croquet Club to show how the game is played properly, as well as opportunities for everyone to have a go if they wish.
In addition to the croquet, there will be Pimms, tea and sandwiches available - and while you're there, why not visit Melksham's celebrated museum, The Well House Collection which seeks to celebrate the town's rich heritage through a series of displays and exhibitions?
Visitors to the open day, which runs from 11am - 4pm, are recommended to wear flat-soled shoes and comfortable clothes. Croquet equipment will of course be provided.
Well House Manor, 48 Spa Road, Melksham, Wilts, SN12 7NY Tel. 01225 708225