The July edition of Men's Day Out was another enriching and well-coordinated outing, thanks to the dedication of Trustee Clive J. Pyott, who brought together individuals from seven different nationalities for a memorable day in the English countryside. This time, the group explored the scenic town of Bakewell, followed by a visit to the historic and elegant Chatsworth Estate.

The day started with a warm welcome and a lunchtime treat of traditional fish and chips in Bakewell — a thoughtful gesture that added to the sense of togetherness and hospitality. The group included people from all walks of life, each bringing their own stories and perspectives to the day.

Among the participants was John, a friend of Clive's and a Freemason, who shared fascinating insights into the three phases of Freemasonry and its History from its architectural background to the present day. His knowledge sparked curiosity and offered an opportunity for meaningful discussion.

The outing also welcomed students from Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, who had the chance to be part of an engaging, multicultural environment. The day provided a positive space where conversation, new connections, and cultural exchange were all encouraged in a relaxed and natural way.

Thanks to the generous support of the Sikh Foundation and 'Feed my City', the group travelled together in a 17-seater minibus, which made the journey more comfortable and helped everyone stay connected throughout the day.

In Bakewell, participants enjoyed walking through the park and taking in the town's traditional stone buildings and historic charm. Clive enriched the experience by sharing knowledge about the local architecture, including the distinctive colours of old door and window frames, Devonshire Blue. These colours, he explained, were once used by different estate owners to mark their properties — a unique and visually charming part of the region's heritage, continued to this day.

The second half of the trip took us to the breath taking Chatsworth Estate, home to the Cavendish family for over 500 years. As the group toured the grounds, Clive shared insights into the estate's long and fascinating history, highlighting features such as the gilded window frames on the west front of the house. These were originally finished with gold leaf to reflect sunlight and showcase the elegance of the Baroque-era design.

Another highlight was learning about the stonework of the building. The house's construction includes interlocked stones so well-crafted that they've remained stable and robust for over 300 years — a lasting testament to the skill of the original builders.

Clive also explained the thoughtful design of the gates, where a grand central entrance was used for formal guests, while smaller side gates served other functions — a symbol of the estate's well-planned and purposeful architecture.

Throughout the day, Mohammad Dawood, a fellow Trustee, was a great help in supporting the group. He assisted in making sure everyone understood the historical background being shared, helping to bridge any language gaps and keeping the group engaged.

The outing was filled with moments of connection, discovery, and cultural appreciation. It offered a valuable chance for people to meet, learn, and enjoy the beauty of both the landscape and the stories behind it. It was a truly uplifting day — one marked by generosity, shared experience, and the spirit of community.

If you are interested in being part of the Men’s group, please send an email to admin@fn4m.org

Written by Ben, attendee of the event