bike ride

The sunshine encouraged me to do something I haven't done in years- go on a bike ride!

My neighbourhood isn't exactly scenic, it's a bog-standard housing estate, but nearby there is a cycle-route into town which looks almost pretty.

Waddesdon Manor (gardens)

Waddesdon Manor 

Waddesdon Manor was built in 1877 by Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild as a place to host epic week long house parties and to showcase his immense collection of art.

We were really lucky when we visited this weekend as it was the perfect autumn day, fresh, crisp and sunny. The garden is still in bloom and the leaves are just beginning to turn.

 Ferdinand's sister, Alice, inherited Waddesdon on his death. She was a keen gardener and had a hand in designing the outside space. Alice was a bit of a battleaxe and had some very strict rules. She viewed her role as protector, and was passionate about preserving the manor and art collections for future generations to enjoy.

Rose garden at Waddesdon