Joie de vivre

In the normal run of things, you don't often relate to a scarecrow.  But today, in this wonderful sultry weather, and in a vegetable garden so flourishing, I knew how this one felt.

Calke Abbey (not too far from Derby) is lovely and today, walking round the lush gardens and enjoying our magical July day, it just seemed like heaven.

They've opened two bird hides too - one on the edge of the car park.... this is a splendid National Trust property to visit.