Exploring Hardy's Upwey

The Thomas Hardy Society is an educational Charity founded in 1968 with the intention of promoting public knowledge and understanding of the life and works of the Dorset poet and novelist to anyone with an interest in Thomas Hardy anywhere in the world. It is a Society as much for the lay-enthusiast as the scholar, student or general reader.

The Thomas Hardy Society

The Wey Valley Academy

On the 22nd of October 1900 Hardy went with his niece on a cycling tour to the Wishing Well at Upwey where they both made a wish.

The Walk 11am

Led by Mark Chutter (THS Chairman) and Mark North (Dorset Museum). We will convene at Wey Valley Academy at 11am and walk to the inspiration for the poem ‘At the Railway Station, Upway’ (1853). From here we will view the sumptuous Lorton House where Hardy first plied his trade. Then we will continue to the Mill which he used as his inspiration for Overcombe Mill in The Trumpet Major (1880). From here we will head towards the track at Ridgeway Hill. This was the inspiration for the poem ‘The Roman Road’ (1909). The track was the Roman road to Durnovaria (Dorchester) two thousand years ago. A phantom legion of Roman soldiers is said to appear in times of national crisis and march along the stretch of track .We will then peruse Upwey Wishing Well and then finally head for luncheon at The Old Ship Inn. Please wear walking boots and appropriate clothing . The walk including lunch will be approximately three hours.

The Talk 3pm

'Exploring Hardy and Upwey in the Archives'

A talk by Maria Gayton from the Dorset History Centre focusing on Hardy's life and thirty years of the Hardy Archive collection.

The AGM 3.45pm

The Annual General Meeting of the Thomas Hardy Society will take place in Wey Valley Academy with tea/coffee refreshments available.

This entire day is free to attendees (excluding lunch at the Old Ship Inn). However we appreciate knowing numbers in advance.For any enquiries please contact THS Secretary - Dr Tracy Hayes - info@hardysociety.org

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Exploring Hardy's Upwey

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