We arrived at this world Heritage site on a misty and chilly morning, so our first call was to the Visitor Centre and Restaurant for warming sustenance.

Once we were suitably refreshed, the group dispersed to wander around the grounds and, thankfully, by then the mist was clearing.

Closest to the Visitor Centre were Fountains Hall and Corn Mill with their interesting exhibitions of history and artefacts of the site.

Adjacent to these were the picturesque and impressive ruins of Fountains Abbey, established in 1132, set in a wooded valley and having a tranquil and awe-inspiring atmosphere.

Moving down the valley, alongside the stream, we were able to explore the spectacular Georgian water garden of Studley Royal with its ponds, canal, temples and follies; all shown to their best advantage via glimpses through the trees or vantage points on the steep valley sides.

The canal discharges over a cascade into a lake with abundant birdlife and is surrounded with trees, which, in their autumn colours, provided a nice setting, especially as the sun was starting to break through.

At this point several members joined a guided tour of the water gardens which took us up the steep valley sides along wooded paths to several vantage points including Anne Boleyn’s seat with its dramatic view of the Abbey.

After this, it was time to return to the coach, somewhat belatedly, for our journey home.