Janet Roberts's Blog, page 21
October 1, 2012
Southwell Ploughing Match & Show - Averham - Nottinghamshire
http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
It had been several years since I last attended this annual event. One of the many things I love about it is the fact that it moves round each year, so you get the chance to visit such interesting venues. This year the entrance was opposite the turning to the little village of Averham, just a stone's throw from Kelham Hall, which I visited several times whilst researching my book Oil under Sherwood Forest
This year the event was held on the farms of the Latham, Miller and Hutton families, and it was interesting that the first Southwell Ploughing Match was held in the parish in 1856 at Averham Park. The present site was cleared of hedges and trees in 1919 to enable experiments in the growing of sugar beet to take place.
The first thing that struck me was the sheer size of this event. It was hard to know where to start! Of course ploughing was the main activity and it was interesting to see the development from working with steam engines, horses and vintage tractors to giant tractors steered by satelite.
After looking at all the pens full of cattle and sheep, and watching children trying their hand at archery, it was time for lunch, and there was a big area devoted to a wide range of tempting meals. I settled for the trailer specialising in Cornish Pasties, and lovely and hot it was too! I could have had a full meal from the look of this board, enterprisingly set up by a local pub!
Then it was off to the large craft tent, always a fascinating experience. Next door was an equally large space with local exhibits ranging from freshly picked raspberries to gorgeous Victoria Sponges, specialty breads and oil paintings. As always, I can't resist the comments written by the Flower Arranger Judge!
By now it was the middle of the afternoon and I still had the arena and rings to visit, not to mention the various dog events, hedge laying etc., and I definitely wanted to go on the free Tractor Ride! There were a staggering six rings with horse events taking place, including heavy horses, show jumping and side saddle. In the end I got sidetracked at the Main Ring by the Jousting Stunt Team. I'd already watched them warm up, and admired their fine costumes, so I just had to stop and see their impressive display.
This was a brilliant day out - helped of course by dry, sunny weather. Let's hope next year's event, to be held at Blidworth Dale, Ravenshead on Saturday 28th September, 2013 is as fortunate. ***f you would like to know more about me just click here
It had been several years since I last attended this annual event. One of the many things I love about it is the fact that it moves round each year, so you get the chance to visit such interesting venues. This year the entrance was opposite the turning to the little village of Averham, just a stone's throw from Kelham Hall, which I visited several times whilst researching my book Oil under Sherwood Forest
This year the event was held on the farms of the Latham, Miller and Hutton families, and it was interesting that the first Southwell Ploughing Match was held in the parish in 1856 at Averham Park. The present site was cleared of hedges and trees in 1919 to enable experiments in the growing of sugar beet to take place.
The first thing that struck me was the sheer size of this event. It was hard to know where to start! Of course ploughing was the main activity and it was interesting to see the development from working with steam engines, horses and vintage tractors to giant tractors steered by satelite.
After looking at all the pens full of cattle and sheep, and watching children trying their hand at archery, it was time for lunch, and there was a big area devoted to a wide range of tempting meals. I settled for the trailer specialising in Cornish Pasties, and lovely and hot it was too! I could have had a full meal from the look of this board, enterprisingly set up by a local pub!
Then it was off to the large craft tent, always a fascinating experience. Next door was an equally large space with local exhibits ranging from freshly picked raspberries to gorgeous Victoria Sponges, specialty breads and oil paintings. As always, I can't resist the comments written by the Flower Arranger Judge!
By now it was the middle of the afternoon and I still had the arena and rings to visit, not to mention the various dog events, hedge laying etc., and I definitely wanted to go on the free Tractor Ride! There were a staggering six rings with horse events taking place, including heavy horses, show jumping and side saddle. In the end I got sidetracked at the Main Ring by the Jousting Stunt Team. I'd already watched them warm up, and admired their fine costumes, so I just had to stop and see their impressive display. This was a brilliant day out - helped of course by dry, sunny weather. Let's hope next year's event, to be held at Blidworth Dale, Ravenshead on Saturday 28th September, 2013 is as fortunate. ***f you would like to know more about me just click here
September 28, 2012
'Beyond Limits' - Chatsworth - Derbyshire
http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Every year Chatsworth, the gorgeous Stately Home in Derbyshire, holds an outdoor sculpture exhibition, in conjuction with Sotheby's.
It was clearly going to be different this year, displaying the work of a single artist - Barry Flanagan. He was born in 1941, and died of motor neurone disease in 2009. Chatsworth already owns several of his hares, so I felt familiar with his work.
The first thing that struck me was that there were far fewer sculptures than in the past, with nothing in the cascade, such a delight before, nothing outside the shop nor on the lawn. (See what I mean from the exhibition in 2009 and 2010)
In fact the first sculpture I found was at the back of the Rose Garden, and the elephant did seem a bit of a lump!
Here is another, this time high in the rockery area, and titled Six Foot Leaping Hare on Silver Pyramid.
One of the more interesting pieces was entitled Sculler and was set in the Ring Pool, which certainly gave it interesting reflections
I did like this rather striking image called 'Composition', but that was partly because of it's striking setting.
As expected, there was a sculpture at the end of the Canal Pond and was huge. Entitled 'Large Nijinski on Anvil Point' it glinted in the autumn sunshine.
Generally I was rather disappointed with this exhibition, which was very unusual for me and anything going on at Chatsworth! I do appreciate that organising and mounting these annual outdoor sculpture exhibitions must involve a vast amount of work and money, but I do hope next year Chatsworth will be able to revert to the previous format of both classical and modern pieces.
The Beyond Limits exhibition continues until the 28th October 2012****If you would like to know more about me just click here
Every year Chatsworth, the gorgeous Stately Home in Derbyshire, holds an outdoor sculpture exhibition, in conjuction with Sotheby's.
It was clearly going to be different this year, displaying the work of a single artist - Barry Flanagan. He was born in 1941, and died of motor neurone disease in 2009. Chatsworth already owns several of his hares, so I felt familiar with his work.
The first thing that struck me was that there were far fewer sculptures than in the past, with nothing in the cascade, such a delight before, nothing outside the shop nor on the lawn. (See what I mean from the exhibition in 2009 and 2010)In fact the first sculpture I found was at the back of the Rose Garden, and the elephant did seem a bit of a lump!
Here is another, this time high in the rockery area, and titled Six Foot Leaping Hare on Silver Pyramid.
One of the more interesting pieces was entitled Sculler and was set in the Ring Pool, which certainly gave it interesting reflectionsI did like this rather striking image called 'Composition', but that was partly because of it's striking setting.
As expected, there was a sculpture at the end of the Canal Pond and was huge. Entitled 'Large Nijinski on Anvil Point' it glinted in the autumn sunshine.Generally I was rather disappointed with this exhibition, which was very unusual for me and anything going on at Chatsworth! I do appreciate that organising and mounting these annual outdoor sculpture exhibitions must involve a vast amount of work and money, but I do hope next year Chatsworth will be able to revert to the previous format of both classical and modern pieces.
The Beyond Limits exhibition continues until the 28th October 2012****If you would like to know more about me just click here
September 23, 2012
Florabundance - Chatsworth House - Derbyshire
http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
I love this celebration of all things floral, and have, I think, been to every one. Organised by skilled florist Jonathan Moseley this is definitely an experience not to be missed.
Almost immediately you enter the Painted Hallway and are greeted by this great arrangement, which incorporates vegetables and flowers into one great display. In fact the combination of mediums was a theme throughout - in fact I don't think I'll ever look at a pepper again and not think it could be hollowed out to form a flower container!
Every room was decorated, each so carefully worked out to blend with the surroundings. For example in the Leicester Bedroom the rich decoration was reflected in the flowers, while a landing was decorated with these striking Birds of Paradise.
One of the most breathtaking rooms had to be the Chapel, with it's sombre statue of St Bartholomew by Damien Hurst. At first glance it is just a white arrangement, contrasting with the dark of the statue. However, on closer inspection there are leeks up the sides of the uprights, and cauliflowers along with the orchids! In fact I could have sat in the lovely space for hours and studied such a clever display, and really working out how everything is both attached and watered.
Beyond the Dining Room, with its masses of orchids, always a firm favourite of mine, you enter the spacious and lighter Sculpture Gallery, and here the arrangements were in scale with the monumental pieces of marble, and looked just wonderful.
I really enjoyed this event - in fact I thought it was the best one yet. It continues at Chatsworth until 25th September, 2012.
***A Stately Home connected to Chatsworth is Hardwick Hall. Are you familiar with The Hardwick Love Story?
I love this celebration of all things floral, and have, I think, been to every one. Organised by skilled florist Jonathan Moseley this is definitely an experience not to be missed.
Almost immediately you enter the Painted Hallway and are greeted by this great arrangement, which incorporates vegetables and flowers into one great display. In fact the combination of mediums was a theme throughout - in fact I don't think I'll ever look at a pepper again and not think it could be hollowed out to form a flower container!
Every room was decorated, each so carefully worked out to blend with the surroundings. For example in the Leicester Bedroom the rich decoration was reflected in the flowers, while a landing was decorated with these striking Birds of Paradise.
One of the most breathtaking rooms had to be the Chapel, with it's sombre statue of St Bartholomew by Damien Hurst. At first glance it is just a white arrangement, contrasting with the dark of the statue. However, on closer inspection there are leeks up the sides of the uprights, and cauliflowers along with the orchids! In fact I could have sat in the lovely space for hours and studied such a clever display, and really working out how everything is both attached and watered.Beyond the Dining Room, with its masses of orchids, always a firm favourite of mine, you enter the spacious and lighter Sculpture Gallery, and here the arrangements were in scale with the monumental pieces of marble, and looked just wonderful.
I really enjoyed this event - in fact I thought it was the best one yet. It continues at Chatsworth until 25th September, 2012. ***A Stately Home connected to Chatsworth is Hardwick Hall. Are you familiar with The Hardwick Love Story?
September 16, 2012
Brackenborough Hall - Louth - Lincolnshire
http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
This years Heritage Open Days Lincolnshire booklet provided a host of delights. It was from this publication that I found 'Brackenborough Hall Deserted Medieval Village and Farm Walk' - which , being a Grade 2* listed moated manor house, sounded fun.
I got an indication of how good it was going to be when I found really detailed instructions on how to find it on the Web - always a good sign!
Our large party was given a very warm welcome from Paul and Flora Bennett, who immediately invited us into their home to watch a short TV programme about the deserted medieval village. This included aerial shots so gave a very clear indication of what we would be seeing on the ground, which I thought was excellent. In the adjacent room literature had been laid out for to peruse, including the book written by Paul's mother "Brackenborough - the Story of a Manor".
Our party was then divided into two groups, and I elected to go on the walk. After only a short distance we arrived at this most interesting site, made all the more vivid having seen it from the air. A local historian explained the significance of the various mounds and gulley's and it was all quite fascinating. Paul, the farmer then explained about his 800 farm, and we went to see a large badger sett on the edge of the field. (It was good to know that tuberculosis, so rife in a lot of England and especially Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, it not in this part of the country.)
Then it was back to the farm house, where chilled jugs of water were waiting for us in the garden - much appreciated on such a hot day. Then it was our turn to be led by Flora who took us round the extensive vegetable garden.. Again I was amazed when we were handed print-outs - something I certainly didn't expect, but greatly appreciated.
Then we went inside their home and explored the whole of the downstairs, with its many original features, which as the Hall was built in the 17th century was quite fascinating.
I just couldn't believe how much trouble this delightful couple had gone to, to give us such a good afternoon. "Well worth coming" was the comment on every one's lips as we left. I thought what a marvellous place it must be to stay, as they have converted the listed 18th century Coach House into self-catering holidays.
***If you would like to find out more about my writing just click here
This years Heritage Open Days Lincolnshire booklet provided a host of delights. It was from this publication that I found 'Brackenborough Hall Deserted Medieval Village and Farm Walk' - which , being a Grade 2* listed moated manor house, sounded fun.I got an indication of how good it was going to be when I found really detailed instructions on how to find it on the Web - always a good sign!
Our large party was given a very warm welcome from Paul and Flora Bennett, who immediately invited us into their home to watch a short TV programme about the deserted medieval village. This included aerial shots so gave a very clear indication of what we would be seeing on the ground, which I thought was excellent. In the adjacent room literature had been laid out for to peruse, including the book written by Paul's mother "Brackenborough - the Story of a Manor".
Our party was then divided into two groups, and I elected to go on the walk. After only a short distance we arrived at this most interesting site, made all the more vivid having seen it from the air. A local historian explained the significance of the various mounds and gulley's and it was all quite fascinating. Paul, the farmer then explained about his 800 farm, and we went to see a large badger sett on the edge of the field. (It was good to know that tuberculosis, so rife in a lot of England and especially Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, it not in this part of the country.)
Then it was back to the farm house, where chilled jugs of water were waiting for us in the garden - much appreciated on such a hot day. Then it was our turn to be led by Flora who took us round the extensive vegetable garden.. Again I was amazed when we were handed print-outs - something I certainly didn't expect, but greatly appreciated.
Then we went inside their home and explored the whole of the downstairs, with its many original features, which as the Hall was built in the 17th century was quite fascinating.
I just couldn't believe how much trouble this delightful couple had gone to, to give us such a good afternoon. "Well worth coming" was the comment on every one's lips as we left. I thought what a marvellous place it must be to stay, as they have converted the listed 18th century Coach House into self-catering holidays.
***If you would like to find out more about my writing just click here
September 13, 2012
St Mary & St Nicolas - Spalding - Lincolnshire
http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Heritage Open Days is an annual event that gives the most wonderful opportunity to visit places not usually open to the public. This year Lincolnshire produced a most informative booklet, so it was easy to choose delightful venues.
Many churches are included, and whilst these might be familiar to their parishioners, they are often unseen by the general public. When they include a tour, in this case by the vicar, ably assisted by a local historian, it becomes a real treat.
This lovely church, with St Nicolas spelt the French way, dates back to 1284. It proved extremely difficult to photograph adequately, because of the tower, which was built around 1360, with the spire being added about 100 years later. It contains a peal of 8 bells, which are still in use.
A particular interest of mine is stained glass windows, and this church had some really interesting ones. This one is part of a pair of modern windows installed in 1966. On one side it shows local agriculture, including the growing of tulips, such a feature in this part of the country.
Something that really interested me was this most unusual crucifix. Normally the figure is shown writhing in agony on the cross, but here Christ is shown in glory. (This was another occasion when I appreciated the fact that our guide was the vicar as he could interpret the image for us.)
Another interesting feature was the etched glass. Here is the Millennium Screen which separates the chancel from the choir vestry. It was designed by Sally Scott and shows not only the church but, slightly coloured, local produce. The central quotation is from psalm 90, and I thought it just lovely.
I would love to return to this Church when the fine brass chandelier, dating from 1760, has all 36 candles alight, and when the quite large choir is singing. What an memorable occasion that would be!***If you enjoyed this blog why not become a subscriber? That way you wont miss a single entry!
Heritage Open Days is an annual event that gives the most wonderful opportunity to visit places not usually open to the public. This year Lincolnshire produced a most informative booklet, so it was easy to choose delightful venues.
Many churches are included, and whilst these might be familiar to their parishioners, they are often unseen by the general public. When they include a tour, in this case by the vicar, ably assisted by a local historian, it becomes a real treat.This lovely church, with St Nicolas spelt the French way, dates back to 1284. It proved extremely difficult to photograph adequately, because of the tower, which was built around 1360, with the spire being added about 100 years later. It contains a peal of 8 bells, which are still in use.
A particular interest of mine is stained glass windows, and this church had some really interesting ones. This one is part of a pair of modern windows installed in 1966. On one side it shows local agriculture, including the growing of tulips, such a feature in this part of the country.
Something that really interested me was this most unusual crucifix. Normally the figure is shown writhing in agony on the cross, but here Christ is shown in glory. (This was another occasion when I appreciated the fact that our guide was the vicar as he could interpret the image for us.)Another interesting feature was the etched glass. Here is the Millennium Screen which separates the chancel from the choir vestry. It was designed by Sally Scott and shows not only the church but, slightly coloured, local produce. The central quotation is from psalm 90, and I thought it just lovely.
I would love to return to this Church when the fine brass chandelier, dating from 1760, has all 36 candles alight, and when the quite large choir is singing. What an memorable occasion that would be!***If you enjoyed this blog why not become a subscriber? That way you wont miss a single entry!
September 10, 2012
Sheep Dog Trials - Longshaw Estate - Derbyshire
http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
These Sheep Dog Trials claim to be the oldest continuous ones in the country, and as a great fan of these events I couldn't believe I hadn't been there before! Set just below the house, with spectacular views across the Peak District this is such a lovely part of the country, which I written about in a previous blog.
It is said that the head shepherd and the head keeper to the Duke of Rutland held a competition to see who could shoot the most pigeons, with the shepherd having to borrow a gun. To the considerable annoyance of the keeper, the shepherd won. The keeper then suggested a return match, knowing full well the shepherd did not hold a gun licence, and he would be able to report his illegal activity to the police. Fortunately the shepherd realised what was happening, and instead suggested a competition to see whose dog could round up sheep best, donating a sheep as first prize. This unofficial trial was held around 1894 or 1895.
The first official trial was held on 24th March 1898, with 16 competitors in the Open Class and 5 in the Local Class, with a grand total of £19 being given in prize money. Unfortunately the first day had to be abandoned due to a snow storm, but resumed the following day. The following year the trial was held in September, and news must have spread about the event, for a special train was run from Manchester, and 700 spectators paid to see the trials.
By 1901 the number of spectators had risen to 3,000, mostly from nearby Sheffield. Even the prize money had increased - to £33. It was only during the First World War that they stopped, but resumed straight after, and by 1925 8,000 people attended. 1927 was an important year, as ladies were allowed to enter as competitors for the first time, and a microphone was introduced in 1936, in order to give a commentary on the event, and a 10 minutes bus service was run from Sheffield.
Then war stopped the trials again, but they resumed in 1945, with the BBC in attendance, and by 1947 two days were introduced, then three in 1951.
Having read this account on the web I rather expected vast hordes of people, but in fact this wasn't the case, despite really lovely weather. Low long benches had been provided, and trials were their usual delight.
Then there were two competitions, for best bitch and best dog, with the animals first being checked over by a vet.
This was followed by a lunch break, and I'd taken a picnic as food facilities at these events can be extremely varied. To my considerable delight I found there was a large marquee, full of trestle tables, and serving an impressive array of hot food. This is roast pork, apple sauce and yorkshire pud - with help yourself veggies! It certainly beat sandwiches any day!
After more trials, there was the surprise of seeing three different packs of hounds enter the field, accompanied by an excellent, informative commentary. The crowds, especially the children were invited to enter and pet the animals and ask any questions, which was very popular.
Altogether this was a quite wonderful day out - and now I can't wait to go and see it all again next year.
***What do you do when the love of your life marries someone else, and your whole life falls apart? This is the theme of my novel Every 4 Minutes
These Sheep Dog Trials claim to be the oldest continuous ones in the country, and as a great fan of these events I couldn't believe I hadn't been there before! Set just below the house, with spectacular views across the Peak District this is such a lovely part of the country, which I written about in a previous blog.
It is said that the head shepherd and the head keeper to the Duke of Rutland held a competition to see who could shoot the most pigeons, with the shepherd having to borrow a gun. To the considerable annoyance of the keeper, the shepherd won. The keeper then suggested a return match, knowing full well the shepherd did not hold a gun licence, and he would be able to report his illegal activity to the police. Fortunately the shepherd realised what was happening, and instead suggested a competition to see whose dog could round up sheep best, donating a sheep as first prize. This unofficial trial was held around 1894 or 1895.The first official trial was held on 24th March 1898, with 16 competitors in the Open Class and 5 in the Local Class, with a grand total of £19 being given in prize money. Unfortunately the first day had to be abandoned due to a snow storm, but resumed the following day. The following year the trial was held in September, and news must have spread about the event, for a special train was run from Manchester, and 700 spectators paid to see the trials.
By 1901 the number of spectators had risen to 3,000, mostly from nearby Sheffield. Even the prize money had increased - to £33. It was only during the First World War that they stopped, but resumed straight after, and by 1925 8,000 people attended. 1927 was an important year, as ladies were allowed to enter as competitors for the first time, and a microphone was introduced in 1936, in order to give a commentary on the event, and a 10 minutes bus service was run from Sheffield.Then war stopped the trials again, but they resumed in 1945, with the BBC in attendance, and by 1947 two days were introduced, then three in 1951.
Having read this account on the web I rather expected vast hordes of people, but in fact this wasn't the case, despite really lovely weather. Low long benches had been provided, and trials were their usual delight.
Then there were two competitions, for best bitch and best dog, with the animals first being checked over by a vet.This was followed by a lunch break, and I'd taken a picnic as food facilities at these events can be extremely varied. To my considerable delight I found there was a large marquee, full of trestle tables, and serving an impressive array of hot food. This is roast pork, apple sauce and yorkshire pud - with help yourself veggies! It certainly beat sandwiches any day!
After more trials, there was the surprise of seeing three different packs of hounds enter the field, accompanied by an excellent, informative commentary. The crowds, especially the children were invited to enter and pet the animals and ask any questions, which was very popular.
Altogether this was a quite wonderful day out - and now I can't wait to go and see it all again next year.
***What do you do when the love of your life marries someone else, and your whole life falls apart? This is the theme of my novel Every 4 Minutes
September 5, 2012
Burton Agnes Hall & Gardens - Driffield - E. Yorkshire
http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/It was solely because of a feature on TV's 'Gardener's World' that I travelled up to Yorkshire especially to visit Burton Agnes.
I hadn't quite realised that there was a Hall, and that, for an additional £3, it was possible to visit - and take photographs, something that always delights me!
Burton Agnes is a magnificient Elizabethan stately home built between 1598 and 1610 by Sir Henry Griffith. Incredibly 15 generations of the same family, covering more than 400 years, have lived and added to this lovely place, filling it with French impressionist paintings, contemporary furniture, tapestriesand even modern artwork. I could well understand why it has been described as one of the 20 best English houses alongside Windsor Castle, Buckingham Palace and Chatsworth House. (What I couldn't understand was why I'd never heard of it before!)
The entrance hallway just takes your breath away being filled with the most amazing Elizabethan alabaster I had ever seen, with the twelve apostles in one part and the wise and foolish virgins on the chimney piece.On the floor above, and the stairway is just beautiful, there are lovely rooms, including this Dining Room. All the furniture is 18th century with Chippendale chairs. Amongst the pictures are notable works by Gainsborough, Reynolds, Cotes and Marlow.
Further on was King James' bedroom were it is said the King slept on his Royal progress from Edinburgh to be crowned in Westminster Abbey.
Outside is an equal delight with a large old Elizabethan walled garden containing over 3,000 different plants, divided up into different 'rooms'. It has a somewhat wild and woolly appearance, but I thought this just added to the charm. One thing I particularly liked was the fact that the majority of the plants are so clearly labelled - something you don't see very often.
Away from the main house, and before you pay entrance, is a small courtyard containing a very nice, if somewhat cramped resturant, which was very busy when I visited. There was a wide range of both hot and cold food, and I struggled to decide what to eat! Eventually I settled on a Ploughman's, which as you can see, contained absolutely everything, including a boiled egg!
I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Burton Agnes, and look forward to returning in the spring when the garden will look completely different, and spending more time in the lovely woodlands. 
If you'd like to know more about me why not visit my Smashwords Profile
August 29, 2012
Pensthorpe Wildlife & Gardens - Fakenham - Norfolk
http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
I'd seen the most amazing gardens more than a year ago on TV, and realised they were a feature of Pensthorpe, so I couldn't wait to visit.
It certainly is the most amazing place, covering more than 200 acres. There is ample car parking, and the small cluster of buildings contain an excellent resturant with additional outside seating in the courtyard. A large number of enthusiastic young staff members kept everything flowing and in next to no time I had this lovely honey baked ham salad, which was just delicious and contained so much meat!
Then it was outside, and the only problem was deciding where to go first! In fact I headed straight for the Millennium Garden which had been opened in 2000. It was created by Piet Oudolf, and it certainly lived up to all by expectations, and was just lovely, buzzing with bees and butterflies.
The majority of the site is made up of impressive lakes where they claim 18 species of dragonfly and 22 species of butterfly were spotted last year. They even state otters have been seen in this lovely haven.
Next I headed along a woodland pathway, where I found some good bird hides, outside which were large numbers of feeders attracting an impressive range of wild birds. There were also clear information boards along the pathway, and I saw quite a number of nest boxes.
Pensthorpe also has large wildflower meadows, which support native orchids, as well as Longhorn cattle - in fact there is simply something for everyone in this lovely place.
In fact the only thing I was sorry about was that it wasn't nearer Nottingham! It must be somewhere that changes on a daily basis and I would love to see it all!
If you'd like to know more about me why not visit my Smashwords Profile
I'd seen the most amazing gardens more than a year ago on TV, and realised they were a feature of Pensthorpe, so I couldn't wait to visit.
It certainly is the most amazing place, covering more than 200 acres. There is ample car parking, and the small cluster of buildings contain an excellent resturant with additional outside seating in the courtyard. A large number of enthusiastic young staff members kept everything flowing and in next to no time I had this lovely honey baked ham salad, which was just delicious and contained so much meat!
Then it was outside, and the only problem was deciding where to go first! In fact I headed straight for the Millennium Garden which had been opened in 2000. It was created by Piet Oudolf, and it certainly lived up to all by expectations, and was just lovely, buzzing with bees and butterflies.The majority of the site is made up of impressive lakes where they claim 18 species of dragonfly and 22 species of butterfly were spotted last year. They even state otters have been seen in this lovely haven.
Next I headed along a woodland pathway, where I found some good bird hides, outside which were large numbers of feeders attracting an impressive range of wild birds. There were also clear information boards along the pathway, and I saw quite a number of nest boxes. Pensthorpe also has large wildflower meadows, which support native orchids, as well as Longhorn cattle - in fact there is simply something for everyone in this lovely place.
In fact the only thing I was sorry about was that it wasn't nearer Nottingham! It must be somewhere that changes on a daily basis and I would love to see it all!
If you'd like to know more about me why not visit my Smashwords Profile
August 24, 2012
Riber View Cafe & Farm Shop - Ashover - Derbyshire
http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
This is another farm that has diversified - and good luck to them I say! For many years they sold produce at the gate, but now there is both a small cafe and a farm shop.
Riber View is situated high above Matlock. I got to it via Lick Penny Lane, off the A615.(It doesn't seem very near Ashover to me, despite the postal address!)
It consists of a long, single storey building, which is divided into a small cafe, an industrial style kitchen and a small Farm Shop with a barrow outside. When I first visited I was rather put off by the sheer about of 'stuff', which I can only describe as 'car boot rubbish.' And it is everywhere - outside amongst the plants, crammed into the cafe, which is extremely small anyway, and taking up half the farm shop. The outside 'stuff' was full of rain water when I visited, which rather made me want to leave!
However, what saves the place is the food! The sheer quality, with everything both home made and created on site, is amazing. Also the portions are more than generous, the choice is good and the prices very reasonable. Who can ask for anything more?
Clearly it is very popular with passing cyclist, and the outside seating area is by far the best place, for the views across Derbyshire are absolutely stunning.
The farm shop has a small range of pies, quiches and cakes on sale. They advise to ring first if there's something you particularly fancy (01629 581954), but as I usually call in when passing, it's a case of taking pot luck and hoping something is still for sale, as the selection is surprisingly small.
Last time I visited I had this smoked salmon salad, which was absolutely lovely. (I loved the toasted triangles tucked into the side of the plate!) Afterwards there was Traditional Bakewell Tart. (I definitely did not need any tea after this lot!)
Now I know what to expect, I shall certainly be visiting again, preferably when the weather's good and I can sit outside in the sunshine enjoying the beautiful Derbyshire countryside.
If you'd like to know more about me why not visit my Smashwords Profile
This is another farm that has diversified - and good luck to them I say! For many years they sold produce at the gate, but now there is both a small cafe and a farm shop.
Riber View is situated high above Matlock. I got to it via Lick Penny Lane, off the A615.(It doesn't seem very near Ashover to me, despite the postal address!)
It consists of a long, single storey building, which is divided into a small cafe, an industrial style kitchen and a small Farm Shop with a barrow outside. When I first visited I was rather put off by the sheer about of 'stuff', which I can only describe as 'car boot rubbish.' And it is everywhere - outside amongst the plants, crammed into the cafe, which is extremely small anyway, and taking up half the farm shop. The outside 'stuff' was full of rain water when I visited, which rather made me want to leave!
However, what saves the place is the food! The sheer quality, with everything both home made and created on site, is amazing. Also the portions are more than generous, the choice is good and the prices very reasonable. Who can ask for anything more?Clearly it is very popular with passing cyclist, and the outside seating area is by far the best place, for the views across Derbyshire are absolutely stunning.
The farm shop has a small range of pies, quiches and cakes on sale. They advise to ring first if there's something you particularly fancy (01629 581954), but as I usually call in when passing, it's a case of taking pot luck and hoping something is still for sale, as the selection is surprisingly small.
Last time I visited I had this smoked salmon salad, which was absolutely lovely. (I loved the toasted triangles tucked into the side of the plate!) Afterwards there was Traditional Bakewell Tart. (I definitely did not need any tea after this lot!)Now I know what to expect, I shall certainly be visiting again, preferably when the weather's good and I can sit outside in the sunshine enjoying the beautiful Derbyshire countryside.
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August 20, 2012
Boston 'Stump' - Lincolnshire
http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
No one knows why St Botolph's gorgeous church in Boston is known, affectionately, as 'The Stump'. Maybe it's because the tower, which soars just over 272 feet (82.5 meters) has no spire. It took 70 years to build and the architect is thought to have been Reginald of Ely, the first architect of King's College Chapel, Cambridge.
If the exterior, right in the centre of the town of Boston is striking, the interior is breathtaking. You enter through a tiny, ancient doorway, and are transported into the most amazing sacred space, with a lovely, tranquil atmosphere.
Everywhere you look there are delights. This is the pulpit which dates from 1612, and was used by John Cotton, then Vicar of Boston. It is said that his sermons lasted several hours. It has ornate carvings in the style of the Prince of Wales feathers.
Another amazing feature is all the carving. especially in the choir stalls, which were probably created when the Chancel was extended about 1390. I particularly found the 62 Misericords (or tip-up seats) delightful, and spent ages peering at them all!
The amazing ceiling in the chancel was repainted during Sir Charles Nicolson's 1929-33 restoration, and the fine reredos was erected in memory of a 17 year-old boy who accidentally drowned in 1879. There are 57 individual saints in addition to the Apostles on each side of the Crucified Christ.
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No one knows why St Botolph's gorgeous church in Boston is known, affectionately, as 'The Stump'. Maybe it's because the tower, which soars just over 272 feet (82.5 meters) has no spire. It took 70 years to build and the architect is thought to have been Reginald of Ely, the first architect of King's College Chapel, Cambridge.If the exterior, right in the centre of the town of Boston is striking, the interior is breathtaking. You enter through a tiny, ancient doorway, and are transported into the most amazing sacred space, with a lovely, tranquil atmosphere.
Everywhere you look there are delights. This is the pulpit which dates from 1612, and was used by John Cotton, then Vicar of Boston. It is said that his sermons lasted several hours. It has ornate carvings in the style of the Prince of Wales feathers.
Another amazing feature is all the carving. especially in the choir stalls, which were probably created when the Chancel was extended about 1390. I particularly found the 62 Misericords (or tip-up seats) delightful, and spent ages peering at them all!The amazing ceiling in the chancel was repainted during Sir Charles Nicolson's 1929-33 restoration, and the fine reredos was erected in memory of a 17 year-old boy who accidentally drowned in 1879. There are 57 individual saints in addition to the Apostles on each side of the Crucified Christ.
If you'd like to know more about me why not visit my Smashwords Profile
