Berrington Hall

 It was sunny but the cool wind kept the temperature in the low twenties. It was also a Bank Holiday so we were keen to get out of the house and into the country. After discussing a few options (Malvern Hills, Eastnor Castle, Forest of Dean, Woolhope Village Fete, Hampton Court) we plumped for Berrington Hall, a nearby National Trust house and gardens.

Photo 1: Berrington Hall set in its Capability Brown Landscape

Berrington Hall was built in the late 18th Century in grounds laid out by Lancelot 'Capability' Brown. There are plenty of level easy walks around the estate including the 14-acre lake; the island in the middle of the lake 'houses' one of the largest heronries in the West Midlands. The lake, itself, has recently been revitalised to improve its biodiversity and sustainability.

Photo 2: Looking towards the House from the Lakeside Walk

Although the car parks were full, the grounds were not crowded. The house is well worth a visit though we restricted ourselves to the gardens, parkland, and lake this time.

On entering the property through the gatehouse, we had a bit of a shock. The gardens to the right of the driveway heading towards the house had been flattened ...

Photo 3: Clearing the Ground for the Garden Project

This was the garden we remembered on a crisp December day when looking back towards the gatehouse.

Photo 4: Christmas Puddings at Berrington Hall

We were relieved to discover this was the beginning of the Garden Project and that the Christmas Puds had been saved and would be returned to the gardens.

Photo 5: Plum Puddings in 'Storage'

It will look lovely once it is finished, I'm sure.

We always enjoy the walled garden where the model orchard can be found. Lots of heritage apple trees for eating, cooking, and cider-making (Photos 6 & &).

Photo 6: Eating Apple

Photo 7: Eating Apple

Deckchairs and hammocks were provided in the Orchard and Mary was happy to take advantage of the facilities ...

Photo 8: Mary definitely not asleep

A few more pictures from the walled garden, time for a piece of cake and a cup of tea before heading back home.

Photo 9: Walled Garden

Photo 10: Walled Garden

Photo 11: Walled Garden

An exceedlingly pleasant three hours of rural relaxation.