2 – 5 May 2025
A group of 20 of us from Foxton visited Montigny, our twin village in Normandy, over the early May Bank Holiday weekend, and a fabulous time was had by all. We were very pleased to welcome new families on both sides, and also meet up again with what have now become ‘old friends’ (some of whom we have known for almost 10 years!). The Foxtonians travelled in a variety of ways; by shared cars, the Eurostar and even the overnight Flixbus via Paris, and some took the opportunity to have holidays in France before and after the weekend. The weather started very hot, then broke with a dramatic thunderstorm and ended quite chilly on Sunday. However, the warmth of the welcome and hospitality from our French friends was overwhelming.
Friday evening was the usual drinks and canapés in the salle des fêtes (village hall) and then dinner at home with our host families, exchanging news and getting to know each other, in a mixture of French and English.
On Saturday morning, we visited Rouen, the nearest city, only 10 kilometres away. We started with a guided visit of the ‘Joan of Arc Historial’ Museum, an immersive, theatre-like experience, set in the beautiful Archbishop’s Palace, where part of her trial took place. It was educational, fascinating and very atmospheric.
Some of us stayed in Rouen for the afternoon, wandering through the delightful medieval backstreets, while others visited the ‘Foret Monumental’, with incredible sculptures, situated in one of the forests close to Montigny.
We also visited Martine and Patrick’s fabulous garden in Montigny, which has featured in a French national magazine!
On Saturday evening there was a delicious buffet in the salle des fêtes, followed by karaoke and a quiz. Lots of laughter and conversation!
Sunday was spent relaxing with our host families, including visits to Fécamp, Honfleur and trips to some of the many chateaux and abbeys in the area. We rounded off the weekend with a ‘farewell drink’ at a rooftop bar in Rouen.
We are looking forward to a return visit in Foxton next year, which is provisionally booked for 8 – 11 May 2026. Do let us know if you would like to get involved by hosting a French couple or family by emailing us foxton.twinning@gmail.com. For more information about the association and how it’s organised, and to read about our previous trips and activities have a look at our website www.foxtontwinning.org.uk.
Foxton Twinning Association 