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Thomas Hardy Hardy is probably the best of all the British writers in whose footsteps to follow because he based so many of the scenes in his novels on real places. Too, Hardy country is one of the loveliest parts of England.. Hardy was born in an idyllic thatched cottage in the woods at Higher Bockhampton which is open to the public. Nearby is Stinsford churchyard where most of Hardy's family is buried, as well as the writer's own heart. (Ask us why only his heart - it's a great story). This church was close to his heart and he mourned the passing of church musicians in Under the Greenwood Tree. continued below Photo: Max Gate. The house Hardy designed for himself and where he died.
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In nearby Dorchester is The Kings Arms where Hardy set scenes in The Mayor of Casterbridge and we can arrange for your group to stay in this hotel. In the nearby County Museum is an interesting reconstruction of Hardy's study. In the church at Bere Regis are the Turberville tombs and it is easy to see how Hardy was captivated by this extinct noble family that inspired Tess of the D'urbevilles. Max Gate was Hardy's home from 1885 until his death in 1928 and visits can be made by special arrangement. There are countless other places that can be visited that Hardy used as setting for his novels. . Imagine how in spiring it woul be, while studying Tess, to see Stonehenge where the climactic scene took place or to glance over your shoulder walking up the hill in Winchester as Angel Clare and Tess's sister did as Tess herself was being hanged in the prison. For photos of most of the places described above, have a look at http://65.107.211.206/photos/hardy/gallery.html |