We were in Warwickshire today for a visit to Charlecote Park, a National Trust property advertised as a:"- Superb Tudor house and landscape deer park
- Shakespeare was rumoured to be caught poaching on the estate
- 700 years of the Lucy family, with a uniquely extensive portrait collection
- Colourful landscaped gardens by the River Avon
- Great walking and picnic opportunities in the 'Capability' Brown deer park
- Traditional family games and play area
The Tudor home of the Lucy family for more than 700 years, the mellow stonework and ornate chimneys of Charlecote sum up the very essence of Tudor England. There are strong associations with both Queen Elizabeth I and Shakespeare, who knew the house well – he is alleged to have been caught poaching the estate deer. The rich, early Victorian interior contains some important objects from Beckford's Fonthill Abbey. Landscaped by 'Capability' Brown, the balustraded formal garden opens on to a fine deer park on the River Avon."
Despite the rather aggressive looking wild boar guarding the entrance, the property was very welcoming today, with lots of happy people wandering around it on a sunny afternoon.
In keeping with tradition at such places, mute swans floated serenely on the River Avon
Pleasant gardens, and a croquet lawn, led from the house to the river
We found a large mulberry bush, its fruits are shown below
The house, as seen from the restaurant (above), and the gatehouse (below)
Then we retreated to Solihull and had a fine bonfire, coincidentally succeeding in trimming the holly and rhododendron hedge as well – the technique could be likened to trimming one's hair using a primus stove.
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