Mystery author and neighbor Cassandra Chan is
setting her fourth novel in the Yorkshire Dales in the winter, so a
little research was in order ... places to stash bodies, cozy pubs
and so on. Sounded like a good idea for a trip to us! Cassie found a
great little apartment in Burnsall, and that was the headquarters
for the first week of our trip.
After landing at Manchester Airport and renting a car, we were off
to the tiny village of Burnsall, pop. approximately 300, when not
loaded with tourists.
It was easy to find the gate to
Valley View, where we found our fabulously appointed, modern
and comfortable self-catering apartment
The nearby little store, next to a tea room, had everything we
needed for our stay. Plus delightful and helpful proprietors.
If we did want a
cozy restaurant meal or a pint or two
the Red Lion Inn was a very short walk away.
In the summer these outside tables would be more inviting.
The River Wharfe parallels the road running through Burnsall
The famous Wharfe Bridge is one of Burnsall's most photographed
sights.
However, it was less charming when the rains came and the level rose,
causing it to rush furiously through the bridge. We were bound to Burnsall for the day, because virtually every road out of there had
spots under water.
It flooded the back of the Red Lion, and seeped into the basement.
The Burnsall Green was completely underwater, but the next day iy was
almost back to normal.
The wet weather gave us a chance to explore St. Wilfred's Church.
Archeological studies suggest there has been a church on the site
for 900 years, possibly wooden at first.
These stained glass windows are in St. Wilfred's
Chapel.
An ancient plaque honors Sir William Craven, a local boy who
became mayor of London, who some think was the the model for Dick
Whittington.
This medieval alabaster panel showing the Adoration of the Magi, is
said to date from 15th century.
