Now a popular annual event our summer excursions are planned to suit members and guests of all ages, our August visit to Burghley House proved to be no exception.

We boarded a coach at Goldsmith Street which conveyed us to the doors of Burghley. Staff were waiting to serve us coffee in the beautiful Orangery Restaurant prior to our private tour of the House.

Our guides were excellent with detailed knowledge of the fine furnishings and the beautiful murals adorning the walls and ceilings. A descendant of the first Lord Burghley, Miranda Rock, looks after the property on behalf of ‘The Burghley House Preservation Trust’.

Looking across the gardens from the House it was obvious the fine weather had disappeared to be replaced by rain which remained for the rest of our stay.

Being already damp many members braved the elements to visit the modern water displays in the ‘Water Garden’. For those not venturing outside the museum and shops offered an opportunity to remain in the dry.

Taking our leave of Burghley House we continued to the town of Stamford where members were able to indulge themselves on cream teas or something more substantial.

Membership of the group is open to Ladies whose husbands / partners are members of the Masonic Club. Widows of former club members are also welcome.

Dates of the next two meetings:-

Saturday 13th September 2008 ‘The Organ Grinder’ Speaker Patrick Cooke

Saturday 11th October 2008 ‘The Canary Girls of Chilwell’ Speaker Maureen Rushton

Meetings are held at the Masonic Hall, Goldsmith Street, on the second Saturday of each month. Coffee is served at 10.00 am and the meeting commences at 10.30 am.

Monthly meeting and event details are available from Chairman, Aileen Wright, tel: 0115 9283891 or by ‘e’ mail at: ladies.saturdaygroup@tiscali.co.uk

Photograph show members and friends waiting for a tour of the Burghley House.