Page 1 of 1

My CS Lewis, Tolkien & Baynes day; lots of photos

PostPosted: July 15th, 2010, 9:02 pm
by Baynesman
[url][/url]Good evening
By strange coincidence, my business travels yesterday took me from Farnham to Oxford. I've often visited Dockenfield, where Pauline Baynes lived, and Iknow the road in which she lied. The countryside is very Narnian, as one would expect.

I then had to go to Oxford, and decided to visit the Eagle and Child pub, which as most will know was the regular haunt of CSL, Prof Tolkein and The Inklngs.
Image

They would meet and drink in what is now called the Rabbit Room, and I gather that each would read new stories to each other.

Image
Image
Image

The pub is very nice, it has been extended from the two-room bar that The Inklings would have used.

I then visited The Kilns, first walking round the (delightful) CS Lewis Nature Reserve, which is about 100 yards from his house.

I noted two large rocks - seen below, and wondered if one was a White Witch, and one a wicked Dwarf...

Image
Image
Image

I then photographed The Kilns, and as a man left the house, asked him if he minded me taking photographs. "Not at all" was his reply, and he then asked if I was a fan. When I told him I was, he actually asked me if I'd like to come in and look around...

I nearly fainted.

Image
Image
Image
Image

Of great interest to me was the original, painted metal sign for the Eagle and Child. Fans of "The Hobbit" will recognise a scene... this would almost certainly be the inspiration for one particular episode, i my opinion.
Image

Next, I went to the Church in which he worshipped and is buried. His grave is very simple.
Image

Inside the Church is a "Narnia" window, with recognisable scenes.
Image

I have more photos but hope you enjoy those I've posted here.

I had a magical day.

Regards

Mike

Re: My CS Lewis, Tolkien and Baynes day...

PostPosted: July 17th, 2010, 8:58 pm
by Paul F. Ford
Thanks, Mike: Your post was quite refreshing and your photos great.

Blessings,
Paul

Re: My CS Lewis, Tolkien and Baynes day...

PostPosted: July 19th, 2010, 10:53 pm
by anastasia
Thanks Mike! Your photos are great, looks enchanting. I've never been myself, but just got a little taste :smile:

Re: My CS Lewis, Tolkien & Baynes day; lots of photos

PostPosted: July 24th, 2010, 11:18 pm
by Mr Hooper
What a marvellous set of photos you've posted. I really wish one day I'll get the chance to visit the place.

Re: My CS Lewis, Tolkien & Baynes day; lots of photos

PostPosted: August 5th, 2010, 1:43 pm
by Dan65802
Wonderful. Thanks for the glimpse into your trip!

- Dan -