LANCASHIRE

Morecambe & Wise - Bring Me Sunshine

The Grade 1 listed Ashton Memorial was commissioned by Lancaster industrialist Lord Ashton as a tribute to his late wife Jessy. It was designed by John Belcher and completed in 1909. Externally, the dome is made of copper. The main construction material is Portland stone although the steps are made of Cornish granite. Around the dome are sculptures by Herbert Hampton representing Commerce, Science, Industry and Art. Courtesy of www.lancaster.gov.uk/sites/williamson-park/ashton-memorial The memorial stands in an elevated position, and can easily be seen going north on the M6 in the region of Lancaster. Unfortunately the building was closed when we visited, nevertheless it's well worth a walk up from the city centre.

Formerly an Edwardian palm house, the Butterfly House is now a rainforest home to butterflies, Koi carp, tortoises, and much more. Whatever the weather you can be sure of a warm welcome in this oasis of trees, twisting vines, a rocky waterfall and flowering tropical plants. Walk amongst some of the world’s most stunning butterfly species, including the blue morpho, emerald swallowtails and cleverly camouflaged owl butterflies. Courtesy of www.lancaster.gov.uk/sites/williamson-park/butterfly-house Well it wasn't open that day unfortunately, but luckily the cafe was open so we had lunch... The intricate pattern on the paving can also be seen in the PiP of the memorial.