Open Gardens 2015

 There were some gardens open near Lincoln Cathedral last Sunday, so we made the most of the beautiful weather and went to explore. I was taken with one garden's view of the Cathedral and totally forgot to take any photos of the garden itself.

When this view is across the road, is it any wonder that I was distracted?

 The first garden also had a lovely view across to the Cathedral close.

 At the next garden, I must admit to feeling a little envious of this view across the city.

 One garden had made the most of every space there was and we were very impressed with the array of fruit grown in tubs and boxes, including raspberries, gooseberries, currants and cherries to name but a few.

 There were little corners of lovely planting and this red rose caught my eye.

 This garden (which was my favourite) had an Italian feel, enhanced by the statues dotted around the garden. Everywhere you looked, there was something else to see.  Both of us really liked the pet graveyard area in a quiet and secluded part of the garden.  There were gravestones to pets from Victorian times and the current owner had continued the tradition.  It was very moving.

We spoke to the owner who said his wife wasn't always keen to see more bits and pieces appear in the garden, but we replied that this gave the garden its character.  It was a quirky and beautiful space and I am so pleased that we had the opportunity to see it. I really enjoy looking at other people's gardens and always come away with ideas.

Visit in the rain

We ventured out again yesterday to another open garden, this time one with crafts and ice cream too.  Unfortunately, the weather wasn't quite so kind, but being hardy sorts, would that put us off?  No!  Although the formal gardens were beautiful, with stunning views wherever we looked, it was the wildflower meadow which we were both drawn to.  It was a haze of white daisies with splashes of blue cornflowers and echiums.

 Grasses were intermingled among the flowers to create a relaxing and beautiful space.  Here and there, I spied bold flashes of colour from poppies and one in particular caught my eye.

 I followed the mown grass paths round and there it was, shining out despite the soaking it had received.

 I couldn't resist that colour!

I loved the way the raindrops were clinging to the petals.  Having wandered in the gardens, we looked at the craft stalls and then enjoyed an ice cream (Chris had toffee ripple and strawberries and cream and I went for chocolate - well, you have to, don't you?  It is nearly July!)

 Coming back from a garden visit is always a little dispiriting, but this hydrangea was there to help to cheer me up!  I have always wanted a blue hydrangea and this one is doing a great job of being lilac-y blue.

Watching the flowers change from creamy white to creamy green to blue has been a joy.
P.S Welcome to my new followers - I really hope you'll enjoy reading my blog.