On Saturday we went up to Abbas Hall in Cornard to say farewell to Stefan and Takako. The family have lived in this fascinating house for some years now, but now they are seeking pastures new.Abbas Hall is one of the only two examples of late 13th Century aisled hall houses remaining in Suffolk (the other is in Stansfield). The evidence of this can be found inside the house where traces of the original wooden frame remain. The exterior of the house reflects Elizabethan remodelling.
Another interesting feature of the property is the view from the terrace which is said to have been the vista painted from life by Gainsborough in his painting ‘Cornard Wood’. The view is pictured below.
Stefan and Takako have always been very hospitable, and this occasion was no exception. Many local notables and un-notables were there. It was good to see evidence that the coalition government is operating well even at our parochial level. Below is a picture of the President of South Suffolk Conservative Association (in the almost blue trousers) in conversation with Liberal Democrat Peer, Andrew Phillips (in the almost pink ones).
I am pleased to say that contrary to rumours Stefan and Takako are not moving too far away and we are now looking forward to the house warming.
