On Saturday 9th of March, the Holycross Jubilee Group set up to mark the 50th anniversary of the restoration of the Abbey in 2025 organised their first event in the beautiful upstairs Dormitory of the Abbey. This space was originally the dormitory of the lay’conversi’. They were the lay brothers whose job it was to work the huge farm which the monks owned. It was this area which played host to a delightful Afternoon Tea, which drew over 100 guests from near and far to revel in and experience Afternoon Tea in a beautiful historic setting. The area was transformed for the day into a scene straight out of a bygone age and exuded an aura of tranquility and charm.
Trays laden with delicate finger food and an assortment of sweet treats invited guests to unwind and indulge in the finer things in life, where every sip of tea and every bite of cake carried with it a sense of timeless elegance. Throughout the afternoon conversation flowed freely, followed by the clink of fine China and the gentle strains of classical music by the renowned pianist David Wray, one could not help but think they had been transported in time to a bygone era of elegance. From the first sip of fragrant tea to the last bite of decadent cake, each moment was savored in the company of friends old and new, creating memories that will undoubtedly be cherished for years to come.
“There is something special about being able to partake in such an event within the walls of this magnificent building, the beautiful old China cups, fantastic treats and the beautiful décor remind me of my childhood” remarked one attendee.
As the event drew to a close and guests reluctantly bid farewell to their old and newfound friends, there was a palpable sense of gratitude in the air for the experience, for the company, and for the enduring magic of afternoon tea in the Abbey.
The Holycross Abbey Jubilee Team would like to thank all those who helped in making the event a major success.