Flanneuring in Saffron Walden

My friend Anne introduced me to the concept of flanneuring. As I understand it all you need is that precious commodity Time. You then wander about a place with no schedule, no plan, no aim, indeed no idea! just go where it takes you and absorb the ambience.

Saffron Walden, Market Town
Saffron Walden, Market Town

Well this morning I biked over to the pretty town of Saffron Walden, named after the saffron plant which grew extensively in this area, and indulged in some flanneuring. I was drawn to the wonderful church, dedicated to St Mary the Virgin, with it’s impressive tower. Inside the huge nave was bathed with the sunlight streaming through the windows. Look up and an impressive roof, all reflecting the wealth of this town. In the south aisle I came across the black Belgium marble tomb of Thomas Audley, who funded some of the building of this church.
Lord Audley was the ruthless Lord Chancellor of Henry VIII and founded Magdalene College in Cambridge. Few tears were shed when he died in 1544. The historian Thomas Fuller wrote while standing next to this tomb..
 “the stone is not harder, nor the marble blacker than the heart of him who lies beneath.”
Back home in Cambridge after a 36 mile round bike trip..which involved some hills near Saffron Walden, not something we are used to here in Cambridge! A grand day out.

I strongly commend to you both flanneuring and Saffron Walden!

Tomb of Thomas Lord Audley
Tomb of Thomas Lord Audley
St Mary the Virgin
St Mary the Virgin

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