Today was a welcome return to ‘Bomber Command’ in Bourne, Lincolnshire. This time, with great mates John & Trish. Its full title is International Bomber Command Centre (the IBCC).
July 2019 – Denis’s 90th
September 2023 – with Dennis & Sandra
It wasn’t our first visit, but it’s such a well-laid-out and comprehensive record of that pivotal period of WWII, there’s always something here that’s new or worth a relook. We took Ann’s Dad there to celebrate his 90th birthday (Denis was ex-RAF) and made it one of our cultural days out with Dennis & Sandra – and it certainly impressed! For those who’ve not been, the IBCC is a record of the war department’s activities, primarily responsible for strategic bombing of Germany and occupied Europe. It played a crucial role in the Allied war effort, but also faced significant criticism for its high casualty rates too.
By the time we arrived just after 11.30, the car-park was almost full and so we parked in the overflow area and near a shady tree in preparation for our picnic later.
After getting our four tickets (three concessions and car parking, it totalled £48), we headed for their Café. That too, was unusually busy, and we settled down with a coffee to plan our visit.
Inside, across two floors, it was as informative as ever!
Outside though, was nothing short of stunning. In addition to the fixed exhibits, including the Spire Memorial and the Wall of Names (58000 of them!), there is usually an area here that changes over time, and today was no different. The ceramic poppies, first seen at the Tower of London, were proudly on display, (and it made for a stunning scene, fronting the traditional view across the city of Lincoln).
Yes, a great experience all around (even though we’ve now been here three times) – I’m sure we’ll be back! 👏
Our promised picnic followed, where Ann and Trish had done a great job assembling the ingredients, leaving the boys to assemble the furniture! Well, you’ve got to play to your strengths, and before long, we were all (safely) seated, tucking in to the good food! The glorious weather (now about 28℃, but much cooler under the shade of the nearby tree!) made it a perfect day for it! 👏
What a great day! The venue impressed, the food impressed, and so did the weather – what’s not to love? 😊. If it wasn’t the insects taking a serious interest in our food and drink, we might have stayed longer, but after finishing pudding and a quick visit to the loos, we headed home.
It was a smooth journey home, and we were back on the drive by 4.30. A swift cuppa followed, with a brief natter about our next get-together. We then said our goodbyes, until the next time.
I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!
I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!
Comments