Great Bookham

What a contrasting day from yesterday! Cloud cover and cool all day - typical English weather as we remember it! We were not eager to move on from the park at Englefield Green, however, we did get going by mid-morning, setting our radar to Great Bookham and the park,house and garden at Polesden Lacey.

 

View into the iris garden.

We arrived at Polesden Lacey early, we thought, but the natives had already arrived in great numbers! We wondered if there was some special event happening. But no, they were here with their chairs and rugs ready for a day of picnicking - the cool day wasn't going to put a dampener on having a good time on a long-weekend.

Picnic lawn - a few hardy souls braving the elements!

We organised ourselves to take the guided tour of the grounds and a follow-up introduction to the history of the house. Both excellent choices.

Main entrance at Polesden Lacey.

It appears that Polesden Lacey was the party location for the rich and famous - kings, queens, ministers, and society folk all were guests at different stages.

A very homely, yet stately property. 

Chinese porcelain vases.

The glittering saloon.

The dining room.

The handkerchief tree in flower.