England at Eastertide 2013: Salisbury Cathedral

Today we all went down to Salisbury, where Ros is part of the team of flower arrangers in the cathedral. Many people were at work on flowers, as this is the Saturday before Easter.

I took a few photos inside the cathedral before being informed in no uncertain terms by a very officious gentleman that no photos were allowed, as this was "just about the holiest day in Christianity." Good Friday or Easter I could understand, but the Saturday between them? At any rate, I stopped taking photos inside and I have none of Ros at work or of the finished floral creations. Too bad, because they were lovely.

One of the transepts (first photo), and two of the flower arrangers beginning work.

The stonework at left is the pulpit, while behind it is part of the choir. The stained glass is indeed as vibrant as this, but since I've lightened the rest of the image a bit, the colors on the stone arches aren't as obvious as this to the naked eye.

Outside, the day was completely overcast, so the sky just disappears. The view on the right could not be taken much later in the year, as the cathedral would be hidden behind leaves.

Looking through the High Street Gate toward the cathedral. Tony and I walked out into the town to find a coffee shop while Ros worked on the flowers.

When we walked back to the cathedral, the sun had come out. These photos have nice blue skies and white clouds, and there's more color in the cathedral itself.

I particularly like this shot. It was taken with my longest telephoto lens, hand held, and it captured a very surprising amount of detail. In the full-size image even the points on the ends of the lightening rods attached to the arms of the cross can be seen. I've darkened the sky a bit, and I expect that I'll print this once I return home.

f/13, 1/640 sec, ISO 400, 220 mm focal length

A crucifix on top of a tall pedestal, with a little roof over top, and a medieval downspout.

I like this one, with the large birds wheeling over the tree. Again, a shot that wouldn't work once the trees leaf out.

A final shot, with blue sky and clouds. I think Salisbury Cathedral is the most beautiful cathedral in England. Constable seemed to think so, too.

On the way out of town, we stopped at Old Sarum to let Daisy Mae run about a bit before the long drive home. Salisbury Cathedral seen from Old Sarum, through the haze.