National Trust Archives - Blasdale Home

Hughenden and Bird Mugging

Posted on April 2, 2024 by SteveApril 6, 2024

2nd April 2024

Our day out started under clearish skies, offering respite from the persistent rain. Our primary objective was to Briants Of Risborough Ltd, where Steve sought a replacement chain for his chainsaw. While the process initially proved intricate, he eventually acquired a 16-inch chain, fitting the required length. However, on trying to install it, it became evident that the chainsaw’s slot size, at 1.6mm, was incompatible. Consequently, Steve returned on Thursday to exchange it for a chain for a 1.3mm slot, only to discover that the pitch size also needed consideration. With Rosemary’s assistance in identifying the model, the correct chain was eventually procured. The juxtaposition of metric and imperial measurements throughout the ordeal struck an odd note. Nonetheless, the day concluded on a positive note as the chainsaw was eventually fitted with the correct chain.

On this first outing, our journey led us to Hughenden Manor, where upon arrival, we parked and strolled towards the house. Being half term, the grounds were abuzz with children engaged in Easter activities. The pathway was adorned with themed drawings from the local schools.

Inside the house, we found a degree of quiet, allowing us to explore the rooms in relative tranquillity. Each room was adorned with informative displays, shedding light on both the architecture and the lives of its former inhabitants. Of particular intrigue were the tales of romantic entanglements amongst the aristocracy, notably the affair involving Count D’Orsay and Lord and Lady Blessington, and their daughter.

Hughenden Manor holds historical significance as a key hub for mapping bomber flights to Germany during World War II, a fact we were reminded of from a past visit dating back to 2015.

Warning – Bird Mugging

Following our tour and obligatory perusal of the second-hand bookshop, we retreated to the garden for a leisurely lunch sitting on a garden bench in the warm sunshine. As we indulged in our Ginsters Cornish Pasties, a sudden interruption occurred when a Red Kite swooped from behind and between Rosemary and me, snatching my pasty mid-bite and leaving the remnants scattered on the ground, with no intention of returning to tidy up the mess. Superb flying skills, but no manners.

After our unexpected avian encounter, we meandered through the gardens before making our way back to the car park to bid farewell to Hughenden Manor, and conclude our day’s excursion.

Charlecote Park

Posted on March 12, 2024 by SteveApril 5, 2024

12th March 2024

Deciding to risk the ominous forecast weather, our destination for this Tuesday was the NT’s Charlecote Park, in Warwickshire. Departing amidst a downpour, the journey along the M40 proved challenging, with waterlogged roads and poor visibility. However, as we neared our destination, the weather forecast showed its accuracy, the rain ceased, and we arrived at the park under cloudy skies, but importantly no rain. Rosemary, ever sceptical, brought her jacket, while Steve opted to leave his in the car—both wagering on the fickle forecast. Boarding the National Trust passenger vehicle to the house, we heeded the driver’s warning of muddy paths. Recent winter rains had left their mark, with the River Avon flooding the grounds, giving the box hedges a wash.

Charlecote Park stands as a testament to centuries of history, its roots extending back to the Tudor era. Built in the 16th century, the original house was constructed by Sir Thomas Lucy, a prominent figure in Warwickshire society. The Lucy family’s influence and wealth were reflected in the grandeur of Charlecote, which evolved over the centuries through various renovations and expansions.

Throughout its history, Charlecote House has played host to various notable figures, including Queen Elizabeth I, who visited the estate during her reign. The house witnessed periods of prosperity and decline, surviving the ravages of time and the challenges of changing fortunes.

Inside the house, our time was well-spent. Engaging with the National Trust volunteers, we learned about the history behind the grand Pietre Dure table in the hall—a masterpiece of intricately veneered stone, a testament to the wealth of its original owner who, in today’s currency, would have paid a staggering £17 million for it. It was bought at auction by the Victorian George Hammond Lucy, who is said to have outbid the king for it.

We also learned a little of the history. One notable episode in Charlecote’s history involves a young William Shakespeare, who, according to local legend, found himself in trouble with Sir Thomas Lucy for poaching deer on the estate. This purported incident is thought to have inspired Shakespeare’s later satirical depiction of Sir Thomas Lucy in his plays as Justice Shallow.

Exploring further, we found the Dining Room undergoing repairs, a casualty of water damage from a leaking roof. Despite this, the highlight remained the serving buffet, albeit a challenge for Rosemary to navigate due to her & its relative heights.

The library, complete with countless books, piqued our interest, yet we couldn’t help but notice the absence of river-facing windows— a curious feature of the Victorian extension. Surely, the original house, with its Capability Brown-designed landscape, must have embraced the riverside view In the 18th century?

Charlecote underwent significant renovations under the ownership of Mary Elizabeth Lucy, Welsh wife of George Hammond Lucy, who worked tirelessly to restore and enhance the estate. The addition of Victorian extensions, including the library and billiard room, added to the house’s architectural splendour while preserving its historic charm. She obviously didn’t like looking at the river or, perhaps, its potential flooding capabilities.

In the Billiard Room, Japanese artefacts caught our attention, rumoured to be earthquake detectors—an intriguing blend of function and ornamentation.

We moved on to the Drawing Room, a space tailored for relaxation.

After the house tour, we indulged in a hearty lunch at the café, where a predominantly vegan menu awaited—a nod, perhaps, to changing dietary preferences, or simplicity for the limited number of visitors in winter.

Strolling through the gardens, we marvelled at the resident deer, stags and does leisurely occupying the estate. A visit to the kitchens, laundry, and brewery offered insights into daily life on the estate in centuries past. We were told the estate was open last Christmas. We made a mental note.

Snowdrops at Swyncombe and Greys Court

Posted on February 5, 2024 by SteveMarch 10, 2024

5th February 2024

We decided on an earlier trip this week. Monday, weatherwise, seemed a better day than Tuesday. This trip was looking for Snowdrops, and I had been given a recommendation to visit St Botolph’s Church, Swyncombe. This came about during a chat with a fellow Kingswood gun club member on Sunday. She had visited St Botolph’s Church on Saturday, and mentioned the Snowdrops were gorgeous. On a Saturday and Sunday, the church volunteers were selling tea and cakes. We visited on Monday, so missed out on the victuals. Amazingly there were several people at the church viewing the Snowdrops. It is a lovely small, Norman church in a remote area of Oxfordshire on the Ridgeway and Chiltern Way footpaths. We looked around and photographed.

National Trust Greys Court

Next, we headed on to the National Trust house of Greys Court, renowned for its Wisteria and Bluebells. Here we had an early lunch, the seemingly standard winter menu of all National Trust house at this time of year. Both Rosemary and I ate the Vegan spiced bean pot, made not vegan by a slab of butter in my case.

We had a walk through the house, which had been in use up to a few years before. It is still maintained in a state such that you could think of living in the premises. You would need quite a lot of money to keep the place warm, lack of double glazing and large drafty rooms.

The gardens are not at their best at this time of year. There will be a visit for the Bluebells and Wisteria later in the year. There were though a couple of patches of Snowdrops, not as expansive as St Botolph’s Church, , Swyncombe. There is a maze, easy to navigate because you can plan your route, no tall hedges to restrict the view. Rosemary and I walked around it, unlike one chap who cheated!

Before we left, we paid another visit to the cafe for coffee and a cake, as well as the mandatory visit to the secondhand book shop.

National Trust Basildon Park

Posted on January 30, 2024 by SteveApril 22, 2025

30th January 2024

Another trip out. This time it was to Basildon Park (yes, the writing paper was named after it). Built in the 1700s with newly acquired wealth, Basildon Park has weathered many storms. By World War II, it had fallen into disrepair. The grounds became a prison camp, and sadly, American soldiers damaged parts of the house. Fires, water damage, and neglect took their toll. Yet, the house persevered. In 1952, when a woman with a keen eye saw its potential and embarked on a revival mission, eventually gifting it to the National Trust in 1978.

We joined a short, guided tour of the house which was the only way to view inside. Perhaps this is in the winter only.

After the tour, we enjoyed a light lunch. The winter menu offered a few hot options, perfect for a chilly day. Next, we explored the gardens and woods, marvelling at a magnificent Holm Oak tree. Dog owners will be thrilled with the 400 acres of space to roam, and there’s even a designated dog-friendly area in the house restaurant for those who really must bring their furry friend along.

The park boasts two restaurants: one by the house and another near the entrance, where you’ll also find the National Trust shop. Interestingly, Basildon Park is one of the few National Trust sites where you don’t have to exit through the shop (bonus points!). While the second restaurant was closed for the winter, the one by the house was open and ready to serve hungry visitors.

National Trust Hanbury Hall

Posted on January 28, 2024 by SteveJanuary 28, 2024

24th January 2024

Our scheduled Tuesday excursion was postponed to Wednesday due to inclement weather, characterized by persistent drizzle. Fortunately, Wednesday brought overcast skies but remained dry, prompting our visit to Hanbury Hall, a National Trust property located near Droitwich. Prior to this visit, we had not explored this estate. Google Maps directed us via by motorways before navigating single-track roads leading to the estate. This last part was scary, necessitating one reversal for an oncoming truck. Luckily, the sparse traffic alleviated any significant inconvenience. It is worth noting that alternative routes, such as a cross-country path from Stratford-Upon-Avon, offer a better approach. This is the way we left Hanbury Hall.

Hanbury Hall, constructed of brick, presents an impressive facade while exhibiting a disordered aspect from its rear vantage point. Within the estate grounds, two adjacent cafes cater for visitors. Additionally, during the summer months, it looked as though a mobile trailer would offer refreshments such as ice cream and coffee.

Originally there were formal gardens, but these were later transformed into Capability Brown style parklands. Now, those original formal gardens have been faithfully recreated by the NT and complement the relaxed later gardens, with orangery, orchards, and walled garden. The estate also still encompasses expansive parkland, offering many walks. The reconstruction of the original gardens was helped by a painting commissioned by the original owner, Thomas Vernon. The painting prominently features Vernon himself overlooking the estate from a high point. It could be thought of as an “18th-century photoshop” creation, because there is no miniature hill overlooking the estate

Within the main hall, a striking staircase adorned with wall murals by the English painter Sir James Thornhill commands attention. Paintings in other rooms, have concealed symbolism; for instance, a portrait featuring a greyhound flanked by two young brothers carries historical significance. The two boys are dressed as girls, but cannon balls and a military hat hint at their masculinity. Painting the two boys as girls, could also perhaps help thwart kidnap attempts. A greyhound denotes that the heir to the estate is present in the painting. Notably, in the case of Hanbury Hall, this symbolism proved prescient – both brothers ultimately assumed ownership of the estate, following the premature demise of the elder sibling without heirs.

Exploring the outdoor environs, we walked around the formal gardens before venturing into the expansive parkland. While we arrived slightly ahead of the full bloom of snowdrops, their imminent shoots promised a picturesque sight upon subsequent visits. The estate’s diligent gardeners were observed preparing the grounds for the forthcoming spring season. A magnificent orchard looked as though it will be a mass of bloom in spring. Among the architectural features, the 18th-century Orangery stands out, housing lemon and orange trees, with many likely to be relocated outdoors during the warmer months.

The primary cafe had a somewhat limited menu comprising sandwiches, jacket potatoes plus a few vegetarian options, with my personal selection being red dal.

Anticipating a broader array of offerings on the menus, a return visit is certainly warranted also to more fully appreciate the splendour of Hanbury Hall, particularly amidst the lush backdrop of trees, formal gardens, and orchards.

National Trust – Baddesley Clinton

Posted on January 17, 2024 by SteveJanuary 17, 2024

16th January 2024

Our regular Tuesday adventures resumed after a short break, and what a crisp, sunny, yet undeniably cold, day it was! The journey up the M40 was smooth, leading us to a pleasantly bustling car park at Baddesley Clinton, an imposing moated manor nestled in the Warwickshire countryside.

Stepping through the grand entrance, we were immediately drawn to the house itself, a captivating blend of Tudor and Elizabethan architecture with a rich history. Despite the valiant efforts of the National Trust volunteers, who were adorned in layers to combat the barely double-digit room temperatures, the house retained a distinct chill, a poignant reminder of its turbulent past. One volunteer said one of their number was wearing a heated gilet. Sensible type, we thought.

The knowledgeable room guides, ever eager to share their insights, expertly navigated us through the maze of chambers and corridors. Among the treasures, the priest hole captivated our imagination. Hidden behind a bookshelf, its intricate construction, crafted by one Nicholas Owen, spoke volumes of the Catholic refuge Baddesley Clinton offered during a period of religious persecution. Owen was described on an information board as “the renowned” builder & designer of priest holes. Presumably, that was a posthumous accolade?! He was canonised in 1970. One of the priests, Father John Gerard, who sheltered there, led a highly adventurous life. He was one of few people who escaped from the Tower of London and later wrote “The Autobiography of a Hunted Priest”. But was he sheltered at Baddesley? R needs to read the autobiography.

After venturing through the historical tapestry of the house, we craved warmth and sustenance! Two steaming vegetable and bean chillies later, we felt suitably fortified for further exploration. The bookshop beckoned, and while R searched, I found a science fiction section, adding to my enormous collection of To Be Read books.

Finally, before bidding farewell to Baddesley Clinton, I couldn’t resist capturing the house’s reflection in the moat. The stark contrast between the frozen waters on the north side and the ice-free surface on the south was a curious reflection of the house itself – a microcosm of history’s uneven flow, where secrets lie hidden beneath a seemingly placid surface?

Baddesley Clinton offered more than just a pleasant excursion; it was a journey through time, a glimpse into the resilience of faith and the ingenuity of those who sought solace in its walls.

National Trust – Chedworth Roman Villa

Posted on December 21, 2023 by SteveJanuary 9, 2024

21st December 2023

On a damp, dark, cloudy day we visited Chedworth Roman Villa. This villa has been partially excavated, with protective shelters built over the top of some of the remains. Viewing of the floors and hypocausts are from walkways above. There’s a smallmuseum of finds.

We arrived along some narrow roads and parked beside the road some 200 meters from the site. The main parking was full, and there was a coach party of schoolchildren. Guided tours were available, but Rosemary and I, seeking a self-paced exploration, opted for the audio guide. It offered various options, from factual narrations about the villa’s history to playful dramatizations of life during Roman times. We decided to stick to the plain facts, eager to unravel the secrets embedded in the ancient stones.

Before delving into the ruins, we refuelled in the cozy cafe, relishing a warming coffee. After the tour we ate a light lunch there amidst the clean and cheerful ambiance. I imagine on a sun-drenched summer day, the surrounding areas would transform into a delightful picnic haven, the open air adding to the charm of the place. Somehow R managed to find their small secondhand book shop.

Our exploration along the raised walkways, overlooking fascinating remains showed us:

o – Roman Mosaics: Exquisite floors crafted from tiny coloured stones

o – Hypocausts: These ingenious underfloor heating systems, utilizing hot air channels, warmed the Roman floors and baths, offering a glimpse into their sophisticated approach to comfort.

o – Toilets: These were explained in all their glory details to the listening school kids.

Our online research unveiled a curious detail – Chedworth Roman Villa is apparently home to a thriving population of Roman Snails! These intriguing creatures, protected by their unique status, add a touch of biodiversity to the historical site.

Christmas at Mottisfont

Posted on December 11, 2023 by SteveDecember 29, 2023

11th December 2023

We decided our Tuesday outing would take place on Monday, the weather being the deciding factor. It was time to see a National Trust house dressed for winter. As members we resent paying to see a dressed NT house, so that was Waddesdon off the list. In recent years we have visited most Christmas dressed NT houses in the area, so decided to go a little further afield. We chose Mottisfont Abbey, it also seemed the rest of the world had also chosen this bright sunny day to visit. The car park was almost full, there was a thirty minute wait to get into the house. In hindsight, we should have had an early lunch or elevenses, and then visited the house, the queue certainly dissipated nearer 2pm.

The house had been decorated for Christmas along the theme of letters to Father Christmas and a visit to the North Pole (including a train!) with masses of trees and letters. Santas little helpers were busy organizing the presents to be delivered, along with lists of which children had been naughty or nice. Seems Stephen had been naughty. I loved the boys room, with a wigwam tent in the middle of the floor silhouetting the boys as they plotted to wait up and see Father C, and an electric model train (R thought “0” guage? LGB?) circling the room.

The winter garden was worth a visit. The walk along the river was alas closed. The ground was a little soggy underfoot, in fact we saw many flooded fields en route and masses of Old Man’s Beard in the hedges.

Southwold

Posted on October 24, 2023 by SteveJanuary 7, 2024

24th October 2023

My birthday was on the horizon, campsite had been booked, and Rosemary had been working behind the scenes organising a surprise or two for me. We then had rain, and the rain fell heavily in Norfolk and Suffolk as Storm Babet passed through. Sure enough, we received the expected call from the campsite to say our pitch was flooded. A little hasty reorganisation, and we booked a hotel for a couple of nights. The Blyth.

We set off for Southwold, making one stop at Diss to charge the car, not really needed, but if we wanted to use the car for an outing, then better safe than sorry. We arrived in Southwold, parked the car at the hotel and walked into the centre. We had a lighthouse tour booked. This was the first time in several years that tours were on offer. Adnams brewery ran the tours. We asked why, the guide said because they had the guiding resource, it had been agreed by Trinity House they could run the tours. Not surprising really, as Adnams seems to own pretty much all of Southwold.

Southwold Lighthouse was inaugurated in 1890. Since then, it has stood witness to the evolution of technology. Originally equipped with an oil lamp system, it was then modernized with electric lights with the bulbs changing over the years from filament lamps to halogen lamps and metal halide lamps. Those ended up being unreliable and a new solution was sought. Step in MSM, which provided a new light based on their MFR LED reflector, custom-made according to the specifications given by Trinity House. Its light source is composed of high-efficiency acrylic reflectors with dioptric and catadioptric elements and high intensity LED diodes, with an average life of 100,000 hours.

From near the top of the lighthouse, there were good views of Southwold itself, wind farms and Sizewell. The campsite was in full view and there appeared to be many vans parked there. Mmmm??

After the tour, we checked into the hotel, and then I went for a short walk out to the pier, and then up the north shore.

We had a small room at the top of the hotel, rather rotting windows that would not close completely, and a toilet that required a knack to flush which R never grasped.

We met up with Phil and Selina (my surpise; the other surprise being friends joining us at the campsite, but that didn’t come off obviously), they were staying in The Swan, a much more salubrious hotel where my grandmother and Great Aunt Hetty used to stay. It was here we were going to have my birthday lunch the next day. We had a drink with them at the Swan. They nobly arrived with a plate of birthday sweeties the hotel had placed in their room, thinking they were the birthday guests. After a drink, we headed out on our own for a meal; they were booked for dinner, bed & breakfast. We had spotted a nice-looking restaurant called Coasters. We should have booked, because as we walked up to it, we spied a piece of paper in the window saying, “Fully Booked'” Damn. I suggested the Sail Loft, so we headed off to that. Thankfully, as we later discovered, we were waylaid by the Red Lion and popped in there for supper. Excellent choice of good pub grub.

The next day, breakfast in the hotel and then we drove over to Covehithe to see the church and walk to the coast. The Covehithe church is a small church in the ruins of a larger older one. Some of the walls and bell tower of the original church are still used. We then walked down to Covehithe beach where there were a few people exercising their pooches. There is a small stretch of water separated from the sea by sand. Some interesting tree stumps and driftwood.

Driving back, we drove through a flooded road. We had noticed the amount of sand on the local roads, the result of Storm Babet washing off the light soil from the fields.

Back in Southwold, we dressed for lunch and met up with Phil and Selina in The Swan. A lovely lunch was eaten. We bade the others goodbye (bet they went to their room for a snooze) then had a walk to the view campsite, and decided we could probably have camped there. East Suffolk Council was being a tad too risk adverse. But the Sail Loft pub was closed, due to floods. We thought probably in the kitchen which is at the rear nearer the marshes. Walked back along the beach on a lovely starlit evening and back to the hotel.

We again met up with S&P in the evening for a drink. When the waiter came to take their dinner orders, he joked that they probably wouldn’t want much after lunch! He was correct. and we too weren’t that hungry!

The next day we checked out and drove home, stopping at Scole for a small charge, and then Ickworh House for a quick look, and lunch. The place was heaving with people, and we had to park in the reserve car park. I suddenly realised I had something rather large in my pocket. Oh. The hotel room key. Thankfully the restaurant there is well organised. We ate outside, it was so warm and dry in the sun. he next day we posted back the room key, having phoned to apologize for taking it away.

Stowe Gardens

Posted on October 17, 2023 by SteveDecember 31, 2023

17th October 2023

Wanting to escape the boredom of same-old, same-old days, R and I have embarked on a self-proclaimed “Odyssey.” Every week, we vow to venture out, taking turns in choosing our destination. Last week, we meandered through the tranquil hues of College Lake in Tring. This week, our second expedition on this self-imposed odyssey, we went to the grand expanse of the National Trust’s Stowe Gardens. (Usually, Stowe beckons us in early spring to view Snowdrops, but this year, that season had slipped through our fingers.)

A brisk stroll led us around the lake, past the imposing house (now a private school), viewing poignant poppy decorations, each a silent tribute to fallen soldiers in conflicts past, as well as large silhouettes of soldiers standing stoic as stark reminders of sacrifice and valour. Our exploration complete, we sought the NT cafe for lunch.

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