national trust

and it appeared from some of the signs that people were jauntily running off the side.  it loked fun, but we decided against it

there’s a lovely walk round the perimeter (or periyard for all you old school imperialists)

but there was danger everywhere

and of course the highlight of the visit is a walk across the wobbly suspension bridge to look down at the gorge

kezia was of course fearless

and just to add to the danger we posed for some hideous photos.

whilst we were in scotland we went on a walk organised by the national trust to see some seals

we asked whether it was suitable for kids and they said “yes, it’s meant for kids”

so we thought they’d be no problems for our walk-loving youngsters

but the walk itself took us over an exposed hill in the pouring rain

and there wasn’t even a path so we had to stomp through heather

which of course was very hole-y and a bit of a death trap

but onwards we trod

and it was jolly good.

we definately wouldn’t have gone on it if we realised how tricky/wet/hard work it was going to be.  but we really enjoyed it so we were glad we didn’t know in advance !

and the views when we got to the other side were stunning (it even stopped raining for a moment or two)

we did see a seal when we got there

liverwort (not worms)

these are carnivorous plants.  quite rare i think

it was very wet

here’s our intrepid guide showing us some mushrooms

here are signs of a pine marten

so, i think i’d advise it.  but not for those with youngish kids.

after 20 years or so, we’ve now cancelled our national trust membership.  we’ll have to see if NZ offers us something similar.

yesterday afternoon my mum and i went out for lunch then on to grey’s court for a mum and son afterrnoon

i really like grey’s court, and it’s lovely how they have this little labels around the place written by people who work there explaining why that particular area is their favourite corner.  the one above was particularly nice – click on it to read it (i won’t spoil it by paraphrasing)

despite visiting 10s of time, i don’t think i’ve ever been at this time of year before when all the veggies in the garden are ready

there was an honesty box if you wanted to buy some of the produce

this sunflower line up must have looked dramatic a few weeks ago

and here’s a bit more info about red kites (if my post earlier in the week whetted your appetite).  the whisteria canopy is much more hayfever friendly at this time of year too

and even the request to return your tray was lovely.

waddesdon manor in a glorious (if rather chilly) winter’s day.  all their statues have been wrapped up nicely in protective bags for the winter and looked more than a bit spooky

apologies for the absolutely appalling descriptions at the moment !