Bodiam Castle with old friends.

We had a visit from old friends from South Africa, who we had not seen for 23 years. Andy and Graham had started Primary School together more than 60 years ago and we took the opportunity of their visit to show them another local attraction, Bodiam Castle. We enjoy taking our dog, Lettie for walks around the castle, but she is disappointed about not being allowed inside!

A view of the Rother Valley, taken from Bodiam car park.
The mystical castle across the moat.
Andy and Maureen crossing the moat.
While we were in the castle Prue and Lettie circle the moat.
All back together, a photo of the group, taken by Prue.
Andy, Graham, Maureen and Pauline reminiscing over old school pictures.

Sissinghurst Gardens open this year.

We are fortunate to have so many National Trust Properties around us in the south east, none closer than the wonderful Sissinghurst Gardens, almost on our doorstep. We were able to visit for the final time last year, on the closing day, and were back on a beautifully sunny day last Saturday for this years reopening.

The first thing we noticed was that they have purchased a new transport buggy to take those who need it, to and from the car park to the entrance. Apparently it was part funded from the proceeds of the raffle!

Also new this year is a introductory talk given 4 times a day on the Plain, in front of the ticket office. An interesting talk called Family Ties, giving a brief history of the property and the families that have lived at Sissinghurst. Most enlightening and worth trying to catch.

Prue enjoyed taking some pictures of the garden in its early awakening stage, and look forward to seeing it soon in its full glory.

The board as you go in showing the gardeners tasks.

 

The orchard with some of the early spring flowers.

 

The cottage garden almost dormant

 

The cottage Garden July 2010

 

The lime walk

 

The purple border is also just awakening.