Himself has set course east. For reasons known only to himself mind. Each time I ask, the answer shifts slightly. No doubt at some point he’ll tell me it was my idea…
Luckily this takes us straight past an old favourite, Stourhead, yet another National Trust delight.
And while there’s no doubt the Palladian mansion is fabulously grand, it’s the grounds that are truly captivating.
Stourhead’s gardens were inspired by the landscape painting masterpieces of yesteryear. They are the vision of landscaper Henry Hoare II also known as Henry the Magnificent. And why not – the man was a visionary.
Temples, architectural features, follies and ancient trees are set around a grand lake, all placed to evoke artistic scenes. The grounds were designed to transition seamlessly throughout the seasons – it’s the perfect place to lose oneself in.
There’s even a grotto, a perpetual source of cool spring waters complete with sculptures and intricate stone paths. I know where I would be loosening my crinolines and wading in on a sweltering day.
Meanwhile the manor house features one of the finest surviving Regency libraries in Britain. Built in 1792 it houses over 6,100 books and has an extensive collection of Chippendale furniture. Always my favourite rooms, libraries – just leave me here please and collect me in a few years or so.
In addition to an impressive art collection, one of Stourhead’s special pieces is the Pope’s Cabinet which once belonged to Pope Sixtus V. Inlaid with precious gems and finishes, it was built in the 16th century and has over 150 drawers, including secret squirrel ones that have never been opened. Now who exactly has that sort of willpower?
We also see the ice house, a reminder of the luxuries of 18th century dining rooms. Ice from Stourhead’s lake would be stored here for summer refreshments, in a deep lined well. It’s hard to tell from the photo, but it’s at least a 10 -15 metre drop. I pity the poor sod who had to be lowered in to chip a block out.
Manor and grounds lapped, Himself eventually tears me away. He’s vexed due to not being able to stay on the grounds as we have previously – can’t get through to the contact person apparently and so we have to make our way elsewhere before days end. A pity. When last here, I had a lovely hare encounter at twilight. In his haste to leave we don’t even stop at the lovely farm shop. *Sigh*
It’s been a lovely day. Stourhead will always hold a special place in my memories of the UK.
PS: don’t tell anyone but I may have found my Petie rabbit a girlfriend. Cute isn’t she. It’s very likely she’ll hop home with me. In the meantime I couldn’t resist setting her up in a smooch in the gift shop. I am a grown up. Really. I am.
Miss Baci Travels 