Sunday 6 March 2011

Birthday Outing For Mike

It was Mikes birthday yesterday, and we had a cunning plan! (Can't you tell we've been watching Blackadder! LOL)

If they were game, we would take both Mike and Sally-Ann to Lanhydrock House and Gardens, near Bodmin.

Of course, as we are all National Trust members, it meant a cheap day out for us, visiting a wonderful home, on a glorious Spring day. They said, what time are we leaving!

After a short trip up the A30/A38 we arrived, and sat and ate our picnic at the tables provided in the large parking area, before heading down the driveway towards this beautiful home.


As we walked through the gatehouse, we were welcomed by the most gorgeous gardens, with manicured lawns and shrubs creating a tranquil area prior to arriving at the main building.

Once inside we were welcomed by volunteers, who were very knowledgeable in the property and it's owners, The Robartes family, since the 16th Century.

There are 51 rooms in total that are open to us, and we were advised we would need a minimum of an hour to be able to see everything inside.


The family had 10 children at one point in it's history, but following early deaths, WW1 that claimed the life of Captain Tommy in France, and Alexander, by his own hand when he returned from the war, there were actually no heirs to continue the name. Only one of the daughters survived, but following her marriage the name and title were lost.

As you can see, Captain Tommy must have been quite a hunter before he was lost in the war.


The children were all expected to be seen and not heard, and were bought up in the upstairs rooms and nursery.
Onwards and down the stairs to another level, and I took the opportunity of a quick group shot.




Through the last of the rooms, and outside once more, where we headed around the side of the main building, past the old stables, where the fire engines were kept and round to the servants hall, and the now restaurant.

Mike and Sally-Ann treated us all to some really yummy pancakes with lemon and sugar - a special treat that the restaurant were doing for today only.

Back out, and up some more steps to the Church, where I wandered amongst the grave stones


and looked back down on the church itself.
and finally, back through the grounds



with another stop for a quick piccie.

and some more pictures of the incredible gardens


what a wonderful day out, well worth the visit, and we shall certainly be going again.

Tonight it's a birthday meal at the Portie Arms...... a great finish to a fun packed day.

2 comments:

  1. Lovely treat - fabulous house, fantastic photos. Is it close enough for us to visit when we are down that way later this year? I do think we need to join the National Trust to see all these lovely places. Do you get in half price or what is the deal if you are a member?

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  2. Hiya - Yes it's a lovely place and close enough for you to visit. If you become a member all NT properties are free to get into

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