Exploring My Manor

Getting to know your neighbourhood and its history can lead to some fascinating discoveries. All you need to do is ask and some remarkable doors may well open.

- Steve Harris

“SO what exactly is Penn Hill?” asked my dad on a recent visit.

This is the kind of question that he would know the answer to in his own neighbourhood. But then he has only lived in a combined total of three houses, within one-and-a-half miles of each other, in almost 70 years.

My own residential history is far more chequered. Since I stopped living with my mum and dad 20 years ago, I’ve moved 17 times. The last six years in Dorset has been possibly the most settled period of my life - I’ve averaged two years in each of the three places I’ve lived.

Up until now I’ve been more than happy with this wandering lifestyle. I chose a career that’s unstable, that involves following the work when there are promotions to be had, or upping sticks when you’re suddenly out of a job. Also time spent living in places like Teesside and Birmingham means that I appreciate Dorset’s beauty all the more.