This afternoon Jackie drove us all to Highcliffe Castle. The reason for the hilarity displayed in this picture is that, when debating whether we should pay for parking, I had said that we didn’t have to pay ‘from October until some other date’.
Well, I couldn’t remember exactly what.
Scooby did his best to get lost in the maze.
Ian examined an entrance,
at the side of which is a display board telling the story of the building. As usual, clicking on the image for enlargement will make this clearer.
It was a mild enough day for my companions to sample the tea shop refreshments alfresco. As they settled themselves, we met Kate and Toby with their twin baby daughters carried in slings.
I chose to investigate the grounds, from which, through trees, could be seen the sea and Mudeford Spit.
A lengthy zig-zag path led down to the beach.
On the way down I noticed a couple of walkers as I photographed the shore;
they seemed worthy of a picture in themselves. Only when I zoomed in on the second image did I recognise the twins and their happy parents. Naturally I parted with another of Becky’s blogging cards.
On my way back up the path I met Ian and Scooby coming down. At the top were the ladies.
By dusk the castle lights were lit.
This evening the four of us shared a bottle of Las Primas Gran Familia Airen sauvignon blanc 2014, with our Mr. Pink’s fish and chips.
Did Scooby go in?
He did, Ginene. Several pics had just his tail sticking up, but we thought the published one game people more chance to spot him.
Reading about the castle I was amazed that someone is presumed to have stolen that large and ornate flower trough – surely it would be instantly recognisable………. That took some muscle and ingenuity!
Thank you, Pauline. Architectural salvage is often nicked
The utter gall (or is that Gaul?) of Mrs Violet Stuart Wortley getting herself photographed in front of the flower trough before pinching it…
Many thanks, Bruce. Excellent jeu de mots
You have a fascinating way to tell a story, Derrick. And your photos are beautiful. But the one you took it through the trees, with the sea and Mudeford Spit, is fabulous 🙂 All the best for the twins!
Many thanks, Monica
I’m sure the twins will appreciate those photographs that you took of the family. I wonder if they’ll be able to visit your blog when they grow up?
Steady on, Mary! I’d be as old as my Mum. Thanks
I’m sure you’ll live forever, Derrick. I was wondering about the longevity of this WordPress site 🙂
Good question, Mary
I didn’t mean your site; I meant WordPress itself. I knew I shouldn’t have had ice cream for breakfast.
Thanks Mary, 🙂
Goodness. Thieving from a derelict castle. Glad it was restored and that you had a nice day out seeing it.
Thank you, Lisa
Loving all these moody pictures from yesterday and today.
Thank you, Susanne
The castle is stunning as dusk. Great shots, Derrick.
Thank you, Jill
Beautiful…castles are just magical. I’m envious. Great photos, Derrick.
Thank you, Van
Fantastic photography, Derrick. You have undoubted ability, innit!
Thank you, Ian.
Gorgeous scenery Derrick. You appear to have such a ‘active’ life haha.
Thanks, Nina. Making the best of retirement
He also has an ‘active’ driver!!
*an
Also love the pictures.
1 What is a blogging card.
2 Who packs your parachutewww.infojustice.com/Parachute.pps as a thankyou for always being on my blog.
That was lovely.
And this explains the blog cards –
http://derrickjknight.com/2015/12/31/the-selfie-stick/
Thanks, Beck
Many thanks, John. Much appreciated, and I echo Becky’s comment.
I love the glimpse of Scooby’s body with tail. A mosey brings the best things. No castles very near us. (But I’ll have a formidable mansion picture to share in spring :-)!)
It was a real pleasure to meet you yesterday and thank you for photographing us on the beach with our girls, Alice & Heidi! I will treasure that photograph. In fact that’s our first family photo since they were out of hospital almost five months ago! I shall certainly be following your blog. All the best 🙂 Kate & Toby
Wonderful, Kate. My eldest son’s wife is Heidi, and one of her daughters is Alice. Thank you.
Enjoy reading the story of the castle. Great photos, Derrick!
Thank you, Amy
Poor old castle! What a wonderful character! It sure has seen its ups and downs.
Thanks, Laurie
Looks like an amazing structure, Derrick. Thank Jackie for me for driving you all so we could share in the pictures!!
Thank you, GP. Jackie is touched
The rolling sand on the beach was typical winter terrain along our Great Lakes here. Did anyone mention there is a simple way to learn our 5 Lakes, Derrick? H O M E S. Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie and Superior.
I love the pattern of the brick cling and the beauty of the castle at night. This was a gorgeous day spent together and I liked hearing about laughter and forgetfulness, Derrick. 🙂
Brick “coloring” ~ it looks like a subtle yellow and cream stone brick checkerboard. ~Robin
Many thanks, Robin. HOMES is brilliant
Another post with great pictures, you really do have a gift.
Many thanks, Eric