Crathes Castle

A trip out to Crathes Castle. As reported extensively on the news this part of Scotland is experiencing amazing weather. Warmer in March than it often is in full summer. The plants are taking full advantage of the weather, despite the lack of rain. So are the human inhabitants of the area. Although not evidenced in the photograph there were more people here on a Monday, enjoying the sun, than I think there would normally be on a typical March weekend.

Fortunately this Scottish National Trust property is open all year, and so it is able to take advantage of the weather, many others do not open until 1st April, and so are missing out on this unexpected visit of summer out off season. There was much activity by the gardeners, particularly in the walled garden which is spectacular in mid summer.

We had a similar very pleasant and warm April last year. Unfortunately followed by a disappointing summer. Hopefully we will be more fortunate this year, and have some summer at the traditional time of year. At the same time a pause for sympathy for the farmers who may well be suffering because we have had very little snow or rain over the winter.