I realised recently that I desperately needed one day in the week to forget about work, not think about money, and just relax, get out of the house, take a few photos, eat cake and spend some time with my family. So, after visiting Bateman's in East Sussex, I decided that we should do this more regularly. We became National Trust members last year, so we really don't have an excuse!
Spring is in the air! Bateman's is most famous for being the home of the author and poet, Rudyard Kipling.
Magnolia.
After walking through a narrow path between very tall hedges, this open garden at the rear of the house is suddenly revealed in all its glory.
The Wild Garden. Snowy Mespilus, Narcissi & Siberian squill
Scilla siberica or Siberian squill.
The River Dudwell, Narcissi, Wood anemone & Snake's head fritillary (or Chequered daffodil)
Gardeners at work behind the 17th century Jacobean house.
Penelope and her daddy posing within the pergola.
Chaenomeles x speciosa or Japanese quince 'Moerloosei'.
Probably spotting either a giant bumble bee or another child.