When I booked the trip for the end of April, I didn’t expect that the weather would be so cold or that the magnolias would have flowered so early. However, the acers were magnificent with crimson and bronze contrasting beautifully with the fresh green shades of spring leaves and flowering trees. Thousands of the rare trees and plants at the Arboretum are labelled with their Latin names and registration numbers. Thirty-two of our members boarded the coach in bright sunshine. The weather forecast was wrong again! We had no rain and just a gentle breeze throughout the day.
Our hour-long journey took us through beautiful countryside, fields with young lambs, the vivid yellow of oil-seed rape and many signs that Spring had finally arrived.
The Arboretum is heavily influenced by the Far East. Spread across 56 acres, there are beautiful old trees and shrubs in a variety of colours and different textures.
Batsford Budha
It is very tranquil. The only noise coming from the birdsong and the gentle sound of water. There was something different to see and hear around every corner, from the Japanese Fu Dog, a Black Cap singing its captivating warbling song, and a small church on the edge of the estate.
Well worth a visit, gentle music in the background as you looked at the memorials on the ancient walls. Delicious food in the café/restaurant, then a browse in the lovely gift shop and the excellent plant centre rounded off our visit. As usual on these trips, we all chatted and got to know each other during the day. We hope you enjoy the photos, here are a few.
Carolyn Jones
Pictures: Carolyn Jones
