We've had some weird and wonderful weather in the UK this month. Earlier in the month we had the hottest February days since records began, and it wasn't unusual to see people strolling around without their coats on, which is unheard of for England in February - it's definitely a coat, scarf and gloves time of year! And then, just as we were getting used to the heat, we woke up to ice instead.I had the best of both worlds - sun and ice - when I went to visit Tatton Park, a beautiful Georgian stately home. The house was bathed in sunlight . . .
. . . whilst the ducks were skating around on the ice instead of swimming in the lake. It must have been cold for their feet!
And I loved the sight of a rhododendon in bloom, with frost all around it and a frozen lake in front of it. I'm not sure what variety it is, but presumably it must be an early bloomer. Even so, I've never seen a rhododendron out in February before. If anyone recognises it, I'd love to know what it is.
Although the house is Georgian, the gardens were mainly remodelled in the Edwardian era and they've been restored to their Edwardian splendour. The Japanese garden was made at this time, as Japanese gardens were in vogue. Maybe this will put you in the mood for Nicola's Edwardian romance, which is due out soon!
Amanda Grange
4 comments:
It looks beautiful, Amanda. I imagine you have gained inspiration for more stories.
Melinda Hammond
Thank you so much for the lovely link. I've spent the last few minutes enjoying the history of Tatton Park.
We have ice now as well, our fourth ice storm this year, and it has encased my hyacinths, which were a good two inches up.
Jane said...
What beautiful photographs, and such contrast - spring flowers and a frozen lake. I don't recognise the rhododenron, but here we have masses of camellias and azaleas of every shade from white to blood red all in full bloom
I wonder if this is an azalea? I didn't think they grew so large, but maybe they do. That would explain the flowering season.
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