Searching for roots in Wales and England

This was an impressive first stop outside London. The Cathedral was begun in 1079. We had a great guide and were able to see the crypt, even though it was flooded. The guide told us about having to have a diver go below the foundation and the peat layer to drop bags of cement in order to stabilize the Cathedral. There was an exhibit about this part of the Cathedral's history, but we didn't have time to see it.

We visited the Abbey and the Somerset Rural Life Museum. The Museum was very well done. I really enjoyed the iron works cottages from different time periods. I wonder if my ancestors could have lived in a home like theirs. A big festival was held just after our visit, 25,000 people in that tiny town! According to legend, Joseph of Aramathea landed here and may have brought his nephew Jesus with him. Joseph stuck his staff into the ground and it rooted. The holy thorn blooms 3 times a year, once near Christmas.

It is the largest gorge in the UK. Cheddar cheese made here.

We saw a large white horse figure on the side of a hill near Bath. It is made by digging through the soil to the white chalk layer below.

We saw Stonehenge one day after the summer solstice. It is an amazing holy place for millions of visitors from many centuries. Several ley lines may cross here.