How some Ramblers take their ease

A remarkable photograph has recently come into my possession, which I am compelled to reproduce for you all here. Although offensive to some, I justify publication not least because it shows the lengths that some Ragged Ramblers are prepared to go to get a feel for the past and those who dwelt therein. I have also rendered it slightly less offensive by the use of sepia tones.

The Rambler in question is seated upon a ‘gaurderobe’ a medieval toilet used by a monk at Mount Grace Priory in North Yorkshire. It was once the home for Carthusian monks who were unusual amongst the many Orders in that they took the idea of monastic solitude to extremes and occupied individual houses and gardens walled off from each other. By a remarkable coincidence I myself visited the Monastery last year and my ramble there can be read by clicking here…

Clearly this Ragged Rambler sought to imitate the Monks of Mount Grace by exposing himself to at least one of the many indignities of Medieval life and whilst I don’t condone this kind of behaviour or suggest that other Ramblers need emulate his actions, I do think that it is interesting to see just how far some of our peers will go in pursuance of their business!