The Cotswolds

A few days exploring deeper into the Cotswolds than we normally manage while duty visiting...  First, Stanton and Stanway, classic Cotswold villages of honey coloured stone, full of really quite substantial houses, interesting churches and old manor houses.

Here, a rood screen commemorating the loss of a younger son in the First World War.  George on one side and the Dragon on the other.

Then, wonderful carving on the manor-house gate - note the rabbits grazing. (click the picture to enlarge)

Next day, to Gloucester where the cathedral close is in the midst of a makeover.

Incomparable cloisters, with fan-vaulting.

A massive cope chest, allowing vestments to be stored without folding.

And some ancient graffiti.

In the town, this unusual set of figures above a jewellers.

Everywhere, signs of the many centuries of occupation from the time when it was a centre for retired legionaries.