Visit to Greys Court – 1st April 2013
It seems that the changing of the month had hardly any effect on the long-standing cold weather which has persisted during March and the Bank Holiday Monday following Easter was as cold as any day over the preceding weeks.
Undeterred, we donned our winter coats and hats (again!) and struck out for our second visit to Greys Court. Our first visit was back in April 2011, when we had enjoyed much warmer weather and were able to enjoy a picnic outside!
This time around, we took mum with us and also arranged to meet my sister and her family over there.
We drove over after lunch and arrived to find the car park almost full and space at a premium. Fortunately we managed to park without too many problems and located Heather and her family, who were also in the car park, before we walked up towards the house.
Walking up from the car park
First view of Greys Court
With all the tickets for tours around the house having already been allocated, we contented ourselves with a look around the many different gardens that Greys Court has to offer.
Emily trying for a closer look
Fruit trees
A splash of colour
Hugh and the girls in the maze
The welcome sight of spring daffodils
Tulips in an old barrow
More spring colour
Mum trying to shelter from the wind
The press rushing for position
Rebekah
Not much sign of wisteria or bluebells this year!
Rebekah having an issue with her lace
Holly
Martin enjoying the warm weather
Relections
Gathered around the pond
Another view of Greys Court
After looking around for a while, a few of us decided to brave the climb up to the top of the tower and were greeted by both an impressive view and a chilly wind.
Looking down from the tower
Looking down across the garden to the car park
Another view of the pond
Looking down the Scots Pine beside the tower
Weather vane
Eventually, defeated by the cold, we gathered in a crowded restaurant for a restorative brew and a chance to defrost.
Holly in the restaurant
Emily looking cheeky
As we emerged outside, so did the sun and we were at least able to take a handful of photos which gave the impression of warm, spring weather!
Finally some sunshine!
While the others left to head home, we made our ubiquitous visit to the shop and the girls were all able to make a purchase.
Emily checking out a mirror in the shop
Spring sunshine
Another view on the way back to the car park
Later on, we finished off the Bank Holiday by having mum round to tea and Sarah provided her usual good spread for such an occasion.
Part of the spread for tea
One of the latest possible Easters is now over. All we need now is for some springlike weather!
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