Calke Abbey

I went back to one of my favourite NT properties, as the weather forecast was about as good as it’s going to get for a while.

I arrived and it rained. April showers, of course, so I spent a short while in the bird hide until the sun came out.

It was wonderfully quiet and the gardens were looking poised for the summer glory. The two wildflower meadows were immaculately prepared, certainly giving the lie to the suggestion you just have to scatter a few seeds and leave the rest to Mother Nature. They’ll be sensational again. I blipped them last summer.

Interesting light catching the range of greens. Lovely views as the trees come to life. Spectacular blue skies in between the grey threatening clouds.

For me, it was the tulips who stole the day. I just gasped when I turned a corner and was stunned by the sight of forget me nots and bright red opposite a similar effect with deep pink. (Extras show the wider effect and the individual detail)

For locals, the New Farm Shop is open and Lichfield asparagus is on sale for a fabulous price....