Pyx, Quarr Abbey, Isle of White

We joined a talk at this Benedictine Abbey. Built entirely of brick - one and three quarter million of them, brought from Flanders. The architect was one of the monks, Dom Paul Bellot, and the main sanctuary was constructed in 18 months, opening in 1912. A very peaceful place, with very little interior decoration. "All guests are to be welcomed as Christ" - a rule of St Benedict, and we felt that today. I have added some extra shots of the choir stalls, the high altar and the main abbey exterior.

We then drove to Carisbrooke Castle. Great views across the whole island. Charles I was imprisoned here, before being taken to London for trial and execution. Last century, Princess Beatrice, Queen Victoria's youngest child, used the castle as a summer residence. We saw the donkey turning the well water wheel, and much enjoyed the museum. Excellent displays. You can walk around most of the castle walls too. One detail I shall add is of the wood carving on a chamber organ.

Both places are well worth visiting. Delicious cakes at the Abbey Tearoom.