Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, UK
info@capitalofthefens.org.uk

Octavia Hill

Octavia Hill

Neatly following on from last week – I got a tweet from an artist whose work I remembered from the Orchard Tea Rooms. Julie tells me she has a new exhibition with an open evening this Friday, the 6th. See www.julieillustration.co.uk Her work is cute and quirky!
The exhibition will be at Octavia View, which is 10-14 South Brink. This is not to be confused with the subject of this week’s article, Octavia Hill’s Birthplace House, which is at 7 South Brink. Dedicated to the founder of the National Trust, who was also very influential in housing reform, and an artist, teacher and writer. My first visit was, like others have said to me since, a discovery of an amazing woman in Octavia Hill, and a real hidden gem of a place! The detailed displays throughout the building are very interesting, charting not only Octavia’s life and works, but who inspired her. It’s led me to look at these other influential Victorians and find lessons that we can take heed of today. The building is also run like a community centre with many classes on offer, though my favourite activity is the traditional games afternoon! I have enjoyed a game of Mah Jongg in the tearoom, with help and guidance, a great way to meet new people and learn something new too.
The tearoom and peaceful garden are lovely at any time of year (the main building opens again on March 18th). The plants, stonework and sculptures are all significant to Octavia’s life and work. It’s very cleverly done, everything tells a story, and is well worth a visit – you don’t have to pay to visit the tearoom and garden, though admission prices to the rest of the building are very reasonable at £1.50-£3.50.
Octavia Hill’s Birthplace House (www.octaviahill.org 01945 476358) is only a few steps along South Brink from the Clarkson Memorial, almost opposite the Council Chambers. “Octavia View” is further along, and so has a lovely view of Octavia Hill’s Birthplace House! Two completely different places, but both have a lot to offer the town and recognise Wisbech’s most famous daughter.