It was a surprise to find the Abbey Buildings open on Saturday.

In the Long Gallery there was a black-and-white photography exhibition accompanied by a slideshow and atmospheric music. In the Undercroft, visitors could experience a Gong Bath, where people relaxed on mats while listening to gongs and other percussion.

In the Lower Hall there was a ballet and movement workshop. Outside in the garden, a carver was at work and explained that he both practises and teaches carving for therapeutic purposes. Also in the garden were quilts and colouring books.

The open day came as a surprise because I had thought work on the Abbey Buildings refurbishment was due to begin.

The photography exhibition, The Seekers, was a free exhibition by Samantha J Ratcliff, produced as part of her MA in Photography. The project explored the stories of eight people who had found ways to reorient their lives through approaches such as alternative therapies or a closer connection with nature in response to stress. It took place in the Abbey Buildings because it was seen as a place of sanctuary.