Fieldtrip to Troutbeck

On Friday 22nd September James Bowen led a field trip to Troutbeck, with twelve volunteers participating. The group explored various themes of economic, social and religious history as well as points of architectural interest, all of which are relevant to VCH research. The day began with a visit to Jesus Church viewing the Pre-Raphaelite east window before following footpaths across the former town fields and meadow land as far as Ings Lane from where the tongue of the valley and Troutbeck Park Farm were visible. The group then followed Brunskill’s vernacular trail from Townhead as far as the Institute viewing a range of traditional houses and farm buildings with slatestone walls, Lake District slate roofs, crow stepped gables, inscribed stones, corbelled or cylindrical chimneys and mullion windows. In the afternoon the group visited Townend, a National Trust property which has undergone recent restoration. Below is a photograph of VCH Cumbria volunteers outside Townend, a traditional 17th century farmhouse and home of the Browne family, a wealthy yeoman dynasty.

VCH Cumbria volunteers outside National Trust Townend, a traditional 17th century farmhouse and home of the Browne family, a wealthy yeoman dynasty.