We all met at Milton’s Cottage at 10am on Friday 10^th October. Most of us arrived early and, as the weather was good gathered in the garden.

This pretty cottage was built in the late 15^th Century for workers on the local estate, The Vache.

We were hosted by Kelly, who showed us around the cottage and described its history and the life and works of John Milton. Kelly was remarkably knowledgeable, answering all  sorts of questions as she showed around the 3 or 4 rooms open.

The cottage may be very small, but there was so much to see and read.

Milton took refuge from the plague in London by escaping to this cottage in 1665, and, although he lived here for less than two years, wrote his most famous work Paradise Lost and began Paradise Regained, whilst living here with his third wife.

Milton was a staunch republican, who wrote books and pamphlets in support of regicide, the abolition of the monarchy and divorce, but was spared from retribution during the restoration of the monarchy.

The cottage contains many of his original works as first and second editions along with artifacts from his time.

We then walked down the hill to the parish church of Chalfont St Giles. Here we met our guide Tony Ferguson, who is not only an author and speaker, but also a member of the St Giles watch, which helps to ensure that the church remains open to visitors.

The church itself dates back to around 1150, during the reign of Henry II, but has been remodelled several times over the following centuries. Parts of the original Norman church are clearly visible  and on the wall is a list of the rectors through the years dating back to the early 13^th century.

One of the most striking features of the church is a set of 14^th century wall paintings depicting scenes from the bible. These were discovered and revealed by the Victorians, but about 20 years ago suffered damage as a result of thieves taking lead from the roof.

Tony also pointed out ancient graffiti around the church dating back to the time of the civil war and a stained glass window with a small depiction of the devil, though he was a very small figure inside a red circle of hell!

Outside we were shown interesting features and graves, including a method used to protect the recently buried from ‘the resurrection men’ by placing long heavy stones across the grave.

After a very interesting tour of the church, we continued our walk into the village, ending up at the pub, ‘Merlin’s Cave’ for lunch.

Thanks to Gwyndaf for arranging this interesting and informative outing.