May’s outing will be a full day out at the National Trust property at Quarry Bank Mill. One of Britain’s greatest industrial heritage sites, showing how a complete industrial community lived. Quarry Bank overflows with the atmosphere of the Industrial Revolution. A visit to the cotton mill, built in 1784, and powered by Europe’s most powerful working waterwheel, will certainly stimulate your senses. The clattering and whirring of the heritage machinery and steam engines make an astonishing noise. Explore the progression of the cotton industry from the medieval era through to the 19th century, speak to the knowledgeable demonstrators to find out more.

Take a guided tour of the Apprentice House, which housed the pauper children who worked in the mill and learn about their working and home lives. Visit the stunning gardens, the Greg family’s picturesque valley retreat adjoining the mill. Explore the newly restored curvilinear glasshouse and gardens. Stroll to Styal village, built by the Greg family to house the mill workers, and still a thriving community, or walk through ancient woods along the river Bollin. Quarry Bank’s archive provided the inspiration for Channel 4’s popular drama The Mill

If you are interested in joining us, please contact Roger Longworth