We opted to visit Cliveden as we have joined National Trust this year and wanted to go somewhere different for our anniversary. Cliveden was chosen on basis of some Google pics looking good.
The day was dull and grey and drizzly, BUT we were totally amazed by the place even in those dull conditions.
Arriving and parking was hassle free and we set off on foot for our exploration.
First stop was the Fountain of Love, which is situated at a corner in the driveway to the House.
Thereafter, we walked along to the House and followed signs to the Parterre which had looked interesting in the pics we saw before our visit. However, we were not prepared for the spectacular sight that this Parterre provided, even on such a dull grey day.
Venturing out onto the lawn, we made our way to the far end and were rewarded with another spectacular image (below). There is a large horseshoe shaped garden planted with primulas I believe and which provided a colourful foreground to shoot towards the House.
We next headed for the Woodland Walk, with the idea being to see the bluebells as they were due to be in decent bloom at that time. Again we were not disappointed, as the National Trust have 'fenced' the paths to stop people trampling the bluebells. It was another example of how well kept and presented the whole property is.
We the returned to the top end of the site by walking up through more woodland, again all very nicely kept, as we headed for the Water Garden.
This was another delightful corner of the property, with fountains, blossom and a pagoda. We intend to return on a sunnier day to further enjoy the beauty of this place.
As I said just now, we will be back in near future on a sunnier day. We were captivated by the sheer beauty of the property and we know there is a lot more to explore. Down the eastern side of the property there is a good length of riverside walk, alongside the Thames, which we intend to walk along next time, plus the Chapel and the Long Garden.
This is truly one of the National Trusts' gems and a shining example of the work they do.