If you studied British History at school you may recall the name of William Wilberforce the English politician, philanthropist
and leader of the movement to abolish slavery. Markington Hall is where he lived near Harrogate, North Yorkshire. His great, great, great, great grandson (William – who we all call Hank) met our wonderful friend Jules (a girl from Warnambool) and they now live a happily married life in the 18th century Hall in the village of Markington.
Whenever we can, we like to visit them. Over the years we have visited and shared (in awe often) in the journey that Jules and Hank have undertaken to renovate a couple of farmhouses and now they have moved into the Hall to live. So with a couple of days spare at the end of our recent trip to London, we could not resist a quick spin up north for a sleepover .
Yes, it was a decent ol’ drive up the M1, but it is always nice to spend time with Jules and Hank. Of course, it gave us a chance to spread that anniversary celebration across a week and turn it into a festival. “You know what would be cool?” Tez grinned to me one morning. “Let’s hire a Mini Cooper S” and drive up to Markington! (Please view video below in full screen)
and leader of the movement to abolish slavery. Markington Hall is where he lived near Harrogate, North Yorkshire. His great, great, great, great grandson (William – who we all call Hank) met our wonderful friend Jules (a girl from Warnambool) and they now live a happily married life in the 18th century Hall in the village of Markington.
Whenever we can, we like to visit them. Over the years we have visited and shared (in awe often) in the journey that Jules and Hank have undertaken to renovate a couple of farmhouses and now they have moved into the Hall to live. So with a couple of days spare at the end of our recent trip to London, we could not resist a quick spin up north for a sleepover .
Yes, it was a decent ol’ drive up the M1, but it is always nice to spend time with Jules and Hank. Of course, it gave us a chance to spread that anniversary celebration across a week and turn it into a festival. “You know what would be cool?” Tez grinned to me one morning. “Let’s hire a Mini Cooper S” and drive up to Markington! (Please view video below in full screen)
Just before we arrived at the Hall we stopped in Harrogate and popped into “Betty’s Tea Rooms” and picked up a few supplies.Tez managed a quick stop at a clothes shop he had discovered with Andrew, Ike & Brooksy, last time we were all there! I did buy him a present of a very nice Vivian Westwood shirt …. Gotta love anything the VivW does!
 Arrived at last! |  Always love driving up to that back door! |  The Aussies are here! |
As good luck would have it, some other beautiful people we had met on previous trips, Johanna and Bruno, happened to be over form France for a holiday (The aussie team of Andrew and Ike, Ruth and Brooksy & Deb and Tez had had a great time at their wedding on a previous trip = another story, another time!). So it was a special treat to be able to catch up with them and their children Paul and Julie.
Bruno, Tez and Johanna
After hellos and catch ups it was almost time for the obligatory Gin & Tonic in the drawing room. The afternoon was a bit chilly so the fire was lit.
Yep, that is a decent size fire place to heat up a decent sized Hall!
As always, Jules and Hank display the most wonderful hospitality and are generous and caring hosts. Regardless of breakfast, lunch or dinner, G & T time or afternoon tea – there is always good food, drink and friendship aplenty. We love them very much and feel so privileged to have them as such great mates. Jules has a diverse taste in art, music and life and it is always fun in the kitchen with her especially when Queen is belting out a tune. We always have a great time when we are all together.
So dinner that night was no exception. A wonderful dinner was shared in the dining room.
So dinner that night was no exception. A wonderful dinner was shared in the dining room.
 Preparing for dinner |  17 red roses for the anniversary |  And another fireplace! |
Obviously there was some French wine to be tasted, delicious food consumed, great story telling & plenty of laughter.
Jules, Johanna and Deb
Apparently after all of us had retired, Tez and Hank took a night cap by the fire in the sitting room. Who knows what time they finally went to bed!! It always takes considerable conversation for them to consider the state of the world when they catch up ….
Gorgeous crisp morning the next day, with more people coming and going and lots of laughter and dancing in the kitchen... …. Now, for some stories you just needed to be there to fully appreciate the occasion……. so I will have to leave that right there!!!!
Gorgeous crisp morning the next day, with more people coming and going and lots of laughter and dancing in the kitchen... …. Now, for some stories you just needed to be there to fully appreciate the occasion……. so I will have to leave that right there!!!!
Deb
GLAMPING (Glamorous camping) – in gypsy caravans.
Jules is undertaking a new activity and it is around utilising the splendid and extensive gardens at Markington Hall.
Several vans will be placed in-situ in one of garden areas, supported by their own kitchen, laundry and amenities. Surrounded by superb gardens and the Beck running by.
Jules is undertaking a new activity and it is around utilising the splendid and extensive gardens at Markington Hall.
Several vans will be placed in-situ in one of garden areas, supported by their own kitchen, laundry and amenities. Surrounded by superb gardens and the Beck running by.
 The Beck |  Gypsy Van |  Another Gypsy Van |
Really looking forward to next visit being able to see the action and vans in full operational state.
As always, staying with Jules and Hank and spending time with gorgeous friends is absolute nurturing of the heart and soul.
THANK YOU, yet again, for another wonderful memorable visit at Markington Hall. DC xx
As always, staying with Jules and Hank and spending time with gorgeous friends is absolute nurturing of the heart and soul.
THANK YOU, yet again, for another wonderful memorable visit at Markington Hall. DC xx
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