They’re switching on the lights at the Friary Gardens this Friday, in Richmond, North Yorkshire. They’ll welcome back Santa and his reindeer, some stars and bells, a giant tree, and an illuminated Christmas parrot.
The last time I was there was Christmas, 2019. Before The Big Germ. Stupid Big Germ.
Toronto to Heathrow, hire a car, drink seven coffees, sit in traffic for a day. Finally into Richmond. Down Queens Road, turn right at The Turf Hotel. A slow turn into Finkle Street, now rumble to a stop along the cobbles of Newbiggin.
It’s a wonderful place.
If I were you, I’d take a stroll along Castle Walk, down to the river. Then follow the water to the Mercury Bridge, and cross over to visit The Station. You’ll find tea, coffee and cakes. Mum and Dad will have Americanos—shall we share a scone?
Founded by the Normans in 1071, this is Riche-Mont ‘strong hill.’ The original town called Richmond: