Of papering, pikes and peas

[Nemesis]

A snip indeed - I bought it new when it came out 2002 at thirty quid. His Illustrated Handbook of Vernacular Architecture, while more general, is more about building materials and methods.

He does mention pockets of lime in places, and lime kilns, but I love that story - we have moved on a touch since then oop north I hope...

It is a vast region though, with many different building types and styles, some of them (Lakeland round chimneys for example) being confined to a very small area when a study is made.

 

[biffvernon]

Ok folks. here's the sentence you've been waiting for:

Until lime mortar became generally available in the late 18th century stones were bedded in clay, though they may have been pointed in lime mortar, and the ruin of a decayed wall is hastened by leaching of clay that has been exposed.

Quite an expensive sentence, even at the discounted price of £19.80 with free postage, but the rest of the book is excellent.

 

[Nemesis]

Well you just asked really about the experts...

I've just come back from the Lakes too.

 

[Nemesis]

Didn't stay here, though:

Tin bath would have been luxury really.

http://www.nationaltrustcottages.co.uk/nt.asp?p=63&c=212

More Information and Other Notes
There is no bathroom. A tin bath can be found in the shed for use in the cottage where there is plenty of hot water.
The lavatory is an earth closet outside the cottage.
Cars must be parked at Low Hallgarth and visitors must walk up the stone/slate track to the cottage. It is not possible to drive to the cottage at all.
Water is supplied from the fell and may be in short supply at certain times of the year.
Linen is not available. Duvets and pillows will be on the beds but you will need to take your own sheets, duvet covers, pillow cases and towels.
There is no television as reception is poor in the area.
The cot in this cottage is a TRAVEL COT. There is no microwave in this cottage.

In September 2007 there may be some external decoration going on at this cottage. This will be weather permitting and will include windows and doors which may need to be left open during the day. A refund of 50% of the daily rental paid will be given for each day that the decorations take place.
This refund will be processed after your holiday.


This one is interesting also, for those without the need for a 'luxury' holiday...

http://www.nationaltrustcottages.co.uk/nt.asp?p=63&c=214

Actually the Youth Hostel is possibly more luxurious... and cheaper...

http://www.yha.org.uk/find-accommodation/the-lake-district/hostels/Helvellyn/index.aspx