Donna Fletcher Crow, Novelist of British History, has written more than 50 books specializing in British Christianity. These books include: The Monastery Murders, clerical mysteries; Lord Danvers Investigates, Victorian true-crime; The Elizabeth and Richard series, literary suspense; and Glastonbury, The Novel of Christian England. She loves research and sharing you-are-there experiences with her readers.
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Donna Fletcher Crow, Novelist of British History
A traveling researcher engages people and places from Britain's past and present, drawing comparisons and contrasts between past and present for today's reader.
Sunday in Bath: Regency Church Service, Canal Boat Cruise with Cream Tea
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ January 28, 2025
Although there is no indication Jane Austen attended services at Bath Abbey during her several visits or her period of residence in that city, we know she and her family (as well as her characters) were regular in their worship. Therefore, nothing could be more appropriate on the first Sunday of the Jane Austen Festival than to attend a Regency-themed church service. (Regency dress not mandatory but strongly encouraged.)
Glenda and I met Brenda Cox in an up-front seat almost under the pulpit and took delight in viewing fellow festivalgoers around us as their outfits added an additional aura of authenticity to a service that needed little adaptation.
Although there have been numerous revisions and alternative liturgical texts introduced since the 1662 Book of Common Prayer which was used by Jane’s father and two clergyman brothers, it still remains the officially recognized version by the British Parliament. Which is to say, Jane would have been at home in this service.
The Mozart anthem by the choir was very moving and receiving Communion at the High Altar a holy moment.
Time and the cold weather did not permit attending the Regency Picnic in Sydney Gardens, so we made a quick snack of what was to have been a fine spread, then purchased warm—if not quite period correct—wraps at a sidewalk stall before meeting our tour group at the train station—again not a Regency-correct experience but more comfortable and safer than the gig in which John Thrope practically abducts Catherine Morland in Northanger Abbey.
Our elegant hostess for the journey was a perfect stand-in for Queen Charlotte.
At Bradford-on-Avon we were met by a guide for our lengthy walking tour of this historic town.
The picturesque River Avon is bordered by a garden on one side and historic buildings, largely financed by the thriving 17th century woolen industry, on the other.
I was most interested in the Saxon church which is believed to date from the year 705.
The magnificent tithe barn was built in the 14th century and used to store tithes, which were paid in kind (produce) and used to fund the church—a system which survived until the Tithe Act of 1836.
Then on to our canal boat.
During the 18th and 19th centuries canals were essential to the British economy. They formed a vital link in the transportation network connecting major rivers that enabled raw materials to be shipped via narrowboats to the industrial towns, then routes for finished goods to reach their markets. Today traditional working canal boats are maintained by the Wooden Canal Boat Society.
Our excursion was on a narrowboat of the style developed by the 20th century for pleasure outings or fulltime living. Our cruise included a lovely cream tea—which was greatly appreciated after all that walking. 
Back in Bath, more walking as Glenda and I returned home—laughing all the way after a delightful Sunday.
Next time—Day 4: Mr. Collins at St. Swithin’s Church, The Octagon Chapel, and High Tea at Highbury.
Donna Fletcher Crow, Novelist of British History, has written more than 50 books specializing in British Christianity. These books include: The Monastery Murders, clerical mysteries; Lord Danvers Investigates, Victorian true-crime; The Elizabeth and Richard series, literary suspense; and Glastonbury, The Novel of Christian England. She loves research and sharing you-are-there experiences with her readers.
Read More: Attending the Jane Austen Festival
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Reader Comments:
I was simply enthralled by your beautiful photos, Donna! Each one just melted my heart, and was SO nicely framed, the scenery gorgeous as only England can offer, and all the Jane Austin clothing just lovely. I enjoyed this SO very much. Thank you sincerely for sharing it with all of us
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-Carolyn H. Gilbert, January 31, 2025
This a truly lovely compliment, Carolyn, as it comes from an artist who is the mother and daughter of artists herself! I'm so glad you enjoyed my excursion--I love sharing it!
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