Bath Gardens and Abbey
On walking into Bath Abbey the light that floods in from the many windows is striking.
The stained glass window behind the altar has 56 panels each telling a story of the life of Christ. During World War II (in 1942) this was smashed during a bombing raid. Thankfully most of the glass was saved and plans of the design of the window were found. After the war ended the window was restored to the beauty we see today.
On a sunny day the light that shines through the coloured glass gives the Abbey a nickname of being a lantern.
The ceiling over the altar of the Abbey of Bath was carved in situ by French architects (the Vertue brothers) in the 17th century. The second half of the ceiling closer the entrance was carved later when funds were available to restore the whole roof.
The Abbey is an active church, serving the parishioners of Bath. Originally the site was occupied by a Norman Abbey which was half as big again as the huge building that exists today. Ruins from the foundation of the Norman Abbey are seen under a glass floor panel.
The walls are lined with memorial plaques (US Senator William Bingham is remembered here) and over 4000 bodies are buried under the Abbey. Later a cemetery was assigned for the deceased.
The monastic community originally housed here would have tended gardens. Now the closest major garden to the Abbey is the botanic garden which also has a lively duck pond.
The Gardens at Bath are separated by a road which leads via the gate to a modern area called the Dell.
Bath Botanic Garden is close to the Royal Crescent buildings and was created in Victorian times.
These photographs were taken whilst quiet prayer was being conducted. Much caution was also taken to record the images of the garden as ducks from the central pond in the garden were busy fighting for their territory. The caution necessary made the red pop brighter to the eye as there was a short moment to grab a photograph.
The visit was all the richer for me not knowing such a beautiful garden could be found in Bath. I had a spare hour and I followed the sign past an old restored bandstand to the garden. Preparations were under way for a half marathon race to be run through here for the weekend so I proceeded with caution!
Other botanic gardens of Britain are featured in my illustrated guide book here if this is of interest please enjoy a free copy here.
Find more images taken with care here
lita doolan productions 
Reblogged this on M o o r e z a r t.
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Heartfelt gratitude. Bath Abbey moved me, the building is full of heart. I love your ‘Red on Red’ composition in your striking portfolio happy Saturday.
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I loved your post on Bath – and admittedly many more posts you offer! Lovely to meet you!
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A very interesting post you put so much effort into your work…..I just LOVE it!!!
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Thank you for these beautiful words. It was such an inspiring time to spend in Bath. Lots of the locals are inspired by their history so it was a great chance to hear all the stories of the Abbey. Looking forward to enjoying more of your bold, bright immediate images on your blog, especially now the clocks have gone back here in UK! (pitch dark at 4pm!).
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Goes with out saying, I always enjoy your communication. Please don’t be a stranger come and visit.
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It’s certainly a lovely place. We always enjoy a walk around the city when we visit.
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I hope to go back soon to fit more of the sights in, I agree it’s a great place to stroll around. I missed out on Sally Lunn’s tea room! PS I loved your capture of the hot air balloon.
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What an incredibly beautiful experience that must have been. Thank you for sharing it with those of us who cannot witness in person.
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Lovely to hear from you Paula. I always enjoy your poetry and look forward to following your novel. Enjoy Halloween.
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Am interesting tour Lita, thanks. I have taken to going into Hexham Abbey when lacking photographic ideas – inspirational places no matter what your beliefs. All the best, R
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Agreed. Just the height of the roof raises the spirit. Looking forward to having a wander over to your blog to check out your photos of Hexham. Love your signature style for capturing wonderful places. Here’s to a great Halloween.
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Beautiful pictures, Lita, of such a historically significant place. So much inspiration in such a gorgeous location that has centuries of stories.
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Yes, I was lucky enough to run into a brilliant tour guide who spent time telling me how the memorials had been moved by the Victorians and after that I found the Cathedral much more accessible. I love your blogs from NYC Linda. Thank you for connecting me to your city so beautifully.
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Stunning photos. Always meant to visit Bath but have still yet to get there.
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It is a beauty. The yellow stone in the sunlight is a highlight. Although nothing compares with the majesty of the landscape of the Emerald Isle!
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Magnificent architecture. The garden looks pretty calm, just perfect for relaxing walks.
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Yes, it was hard to walk away from all the beautiful carvings. The gardens were gorgeous and still.
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I’ve actually been to that church and unfortunately just gawked around at the architecture. You’ve captured it brilliantly!
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Ah it’s a beauty though isn’t it? I recommend a second visit! I was lucky to get a tour guide all to myself so I had some of the interesting features pointed out. Happy days!
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I think I gawked too at the architecture! The photos were easy to take in the sunshine. I’m so glad that churches let us take photos as it is nice to have a second look in the comfort of our own home. The church was a bit on the chilly side. I enjoyed your composition of the ring of snow melting away. Lovely seasonal post.
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The pictures are awesome, so is the story behind them. Great post 🙂
Have a great week ahead 🙂
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Enjoying your recent posts over on your site. Here’s to a great year and a lovely weekend up ahead.
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I’m glad 🙂
Have a fulfilling year ahead. Cheers!
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