Ulverston is one of my favourite places. I have spent many happy hours there over the years. We had a static caravan which was based in Ulverston and the location of the van meant that we were within easy access of the Lake District. I don’t know what it is about Cumbria, it just sort of grabs you by the throat and won’t let go.
I think it is the space (out of season of course) the silence and the smells, they all combine to make you feel unreal, as if you are on another planet. I love the feel of the rocks, the sound of the water and the sight of the hills. For some reason they always make me feel over emotional. If anybody asked me, at the time to describe my feelings, I couldn’t. Cartmel Priory for example is one place that really gets to me, there is something about the atmosphere of the building that seems to seep into my bones.
THE PRIORY
The air outside is heavy and humid,
inside all is cool and calmly peaceful.
Quiet whispers explore the solid walls,
the feet of modern man walk the floor of history.
Some kneel to seek solace, while others do so
to give thanks for favours granted.
Silent tears are shed for lives gone wrong,
or the hurt caused by pain and illness.
The solemnity of the marriage service,
the joyfulness of a baptism into faith,
and the burial of God’s children when
their lives have reached their conclusion.
All these and more have taken place
inside this building, built with care by
men with hard and workworn hands.
Reflect on this and share the peace.
