Christmas Coach Trip

We had a fabulous and festive day visiting Wimborne and Kingston Lacy.

The day started early with dire weather warnings of wind and rain and localised flooding but it ended with blue skies and rosy cheeks.

Our coach arrived on time and all of the guests who were expected boarded at the 4 stops across North Dorset.

Vale Coaches were brilliant, professional and welcoming and the coach was top class. Quiote a challenge for Ian who was driving on the wet and narrow roads but without incident we arrived in Wimborne for 11.00.

Wimborne seemed to be expecting us because there was a fair and a procession of ancient agricultural vehicles dressed for Christmas as we pulled in. The Minster had a craft market and there were plenty of bargains picked up before we headed to Kingston Lacy.

We had complimentary tickets courtesy of National Trust and were able to visit inside the House to see the decorated rooms.

The House looked amazing with each room themed on a traditional Christmas story from diufferent countries across mainly Europe.

It meant a great deal to have a story from Ukraine, ‘The Mitten’ illustrated by a staircase.

A favourite was the Snow Queen. A story of love and community disrupted by a shard of darkness that brought misery and cold on the land until released by the warmth of tears of love and happiness.

Of course there were many beautifully dressed Christmas trees too.

The weather was good enough to walk in the gardens, visit the Japanese Garden and have a ride on the vintage carousel.

All too soon we were on the coach home where we got to raffle some Pantomime Tickets for the production in Bath Royal Theatre - won by Natalia H.

Then a draw for a five pound raffle that will help Natalia S have an extra special Christmas!

A great day with friends and families and a glorious start to this Christmas period.

Let us hope that the New Year brings good news for the people of Ukraine.