E6. A Medieval Pilgrim's Tale

Nights in the Nave

Prepare for an epic and final journey as host Victoria Jenner embarks on her last sleepover adventure with renowned historian, Helen Carr. Together, they venture to the ancient All Saints church, perched atop a hill overlooking the murky River Parrett and the remnants of a long-lost Benedictine abbey. As they approach its foreboding stone walls, their eyes are drawn to the imposing west tower, adorned with grotesque gargoyles ominously referred to as 'Hunky Punks'. But it is not these eerie carvings that hold their attention for long. No, it is the east window, boasting the largest collection of medieval stained glass in all of Somerset. The vibrant colors and intricate designs depict the saints in all their majesty, their expressions ranging from fierce determination to serene tranquility. This is a sight that will forever be etched in their minds as they bid farewell to this sacred place.
And if you’d like to become a medieval pilgrim for a night or two like many of our guest speakers, why not give champing a try? For everything you need to know about Champing™ visit: https://champing.co.uk/
The champing season happens in those warmer months, between March and October, so book now.

Thank you for joining me on my champing adventure. This Nights in the Nave podcast has been written and produced by me: Victoria Jenner. My guest has been historian Helen Carr, and special thanks goes to: Fiona Silk who runs ‘Champing’ and our champing assistants. Big thanks also go to Michael Carter from English Heritage, and the English Heritage custodians at Muchelney Abbey who were so accommodating, plus we cannot forget to mention Paul Adamson from the Somerset Levels Stargazing Society. Sound recording was managed by Leigh-Anne Beattie, editing by Jamie Reed Sounds. Music by Nick Varey and design by George Allen.

This has been a Churches Conservation Trust original podcast – come to a sleepover at our place!

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Chapter

1. "Three suns rising in the sky" (00:00:00)

2. Exploring Muchelney Abbey (00:02:52)

3. Meet our guest: Helen Carr! (00:10:29)

4. Stepping inside All Saint's (00:18:56)

5. Langport during the Civil War (00:27:13)

6. Chaucer and a spot of stargazing (00:28:25)

7. "Sweet dreams" says the gargoyle (00:37:03)

8. Morning reflections (00:38:15)

9. Credits (00:41:36)