Thankfully our coach arrived early as it was pouring with rain.

The group were all dressed in wellingtons and raincoats. The rain continued throughout our journey and the spray from the roads was not good.

On reaching Welford most made their way to the café for a complimentary tea or coffee.  By this time thankfully the rain had stopped and didn’t start again until we boarded the coach for our homeward journey.

The Queen Anne manor, which was not open, is surrounded by parkland and gardens. The snowdrops carpet the grounds in a Beech Wood beside the River Lambourn. On the banks of the river feature fallen trees which provide shelter for insects and wildlife. We were also able to visit the Church of St Gregory, the Manor gardens and a small shop.

Apparently, the snowdrops are primarily “Galanthus Nivalis”, with rare species dotted amongst the beech trees like Elphinstone and Lord Monstictus. (My learning for the day)!”

Both journeys were without any holdups and mostly it was deemed a pleasant visit.  Pam