about handy history
Everything to know about Handy History
Hello! I’m Catherine Jarvis, a north-eastern lass, I live with my husband, Nigel and two teenage children and our dog at Four Wynds, Longbyre, Greenhead, Northumberland CA8 7HN right on one of the best bits of Hadrian’s Wall.
Where it all began
I’m originally from South Shields (Arbeia Roman Fort) and went to school in Newcastle (Pons Aelii – Hadrian’s Bridge). I worked in international banking in London (Londinium) and also went to university there where I studied Spanish and Italian.
In 2000 I met Nigel when his main business (of scuba diving) was based in Hurghada, the Red Sea, Egypt. He owned and ran scuba diving centres in Egypt for over 15 years. When my parents moved from South Shields/Newcastle to Hadrian’s Wall in the early 2000s we decided to join them.
In 2007 we bought Four Wynds Guest House, Longbyre, which turned into Hadrian’s Holiday Lodges in 2017. In 2009 I trained as a registered guide with the Institute of Tourist Guiding with Vindolanda Roman Fort and their sister museum, The Roman Army Museum. In 2018/2019 I gained a Secondary School Modern Language PGCE (a postgrad teaching certificate) with Durham University.
Handy History & you
I have worked and am working with the Vindolanda Trust, English Heritage, the National Trust, Epiacum Roman Fort, Hadrian’s Wall Heritage Ltd., Primary Latin Project/Minimus Latin (I have been part of its committee since 2011) plus more!
I work with people of all ages and all backgrounds. I can deliver a one to one tour; a two person tour or bigger groups – just let me know and we can sort a tour out according to your preferences. I work with Primary Schools, Secondary Schools and Universities; tourists, locals; People from the UK and abroad. I just enjoy talking to people – making them feel at ease and showing them around.
I am incredibly passionate about our local areas (North East and North West) – in the history in all its eras (and not just Roman history!). I also speak Spanish, Italian and French. I am outdoor first aid trained and fully insured. I look forward to showing you around these fantastic regions on our doorstep.
Please do Contact me, I look forward to hearing from you.
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