Cliveden House

Hello. Happy bank holiday to my UK readers. It’s good to be back.

Thank you for all the heartfelt Birthday messages. I had a magical day. Part of the celebrations took us to the stunning Cliveden House in in the heart of the Berkshire countryside. Surrounded by 376 acres of incredible National Trust managed Grade I listed formal gardens and parkland, it was the perfect spot for Afternoon Tea and a long walk.

We were truly lucky with the weather on the day. Mostly sunny with not even a drop of rain, it made everything look and feel even more beautiful. Of course, I was off duty. Nonetheless, I snapped a few pics to share with you a little of my special day. I hope you enjoy it!

Upon arriving at the gates, you follow the gravel drive all the way to the House. This is what greets you. The most magnificent Fountain of Love.

You continue round the corner following the signs for House Guests.

We just arrived in time for our Afternoon Tea booking. Set in the beautiful Great Hall, it was truly scrumptious. A true treat.

At the back and surrounding the House there are some wonderful terraces. Great for functions, like this one here.

I loved this isolated tree.

This is the panoramic view from the back of the house. You can see for miles. Imagine the care that goes into up keeping the gardens. Apparently there are 15 full-time gardeners and a whooping 200 volunteers who keep all the gardens and woodlands in tact and looking like this. Fascinating.

There are so many different routes to take that you’d need a full day or two to explore everything. With more time we could have got lost in the Maze, which opened in 2011.

A little gate led to this….

Nearing sunset, the sun was beaming down on one side and made everything look golden.

The shadows of the trees were making the most stunning reflections.

Not everything is beautifully manicured. Personally I love the woodlands best. There’s something unruly about it that appeals to my nature. When I return I’d like to explore more of the woodlands, the wilder Cliveden, with its wealth of walks throughout the estate including a Fitness Trail.

I haven’t been to Cliveden House for many many years so it was brilliant to be back. Last time was in my 20’s. It’s being revamped. The international staff were most friendly and helpful and we spent some wonderful few hours there.

Every year I know that just after my Birthday we’re going into Autumn. Sometimes it comes quicker, sometimes we still get a couple of weeks that feel like summer. I think my actual Birthday was the last day of summer and there definitely was a chill in the air on the very next day.

I hope you’ve all had a good summer break and maybe a holiday or two. September is one of my favourite months. It’s going to be a very busy one for me. See you Thursday.