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GLW1210:
Little Hall, Big Hall
The only hall that I thought we would be close enough to
inspect today was Hincaster Hall, near to where we parked (thanks to a very
helpful lady at the first house in the lane). The lady also provided us with
something we have missed on recent outings- a fine display
of washing! Plus a foretaste of things to come
with the clipped yew representation of Queen Victoria.
After
passing the hall and reaching the farm at the brow of
the hill, the cows watched in amusement whilst we waded
through the challenge they and the rains had left us
in the field.
Dropping down to the A6, our
intention was to return via Levens Park but we noticed that Levens Hall's garden and shop
were open for FREE at
weekends until 9th December so we decided to take a detour. A good decision. Even in autumn (or perhaps especially in autumn)
the grounds with the crazily trimmed yews looked magnificent.
Other
trees looked more like Ents from Lord of the Rings!
Not
long ago we were given an etching featuring part of
the topiary. Fortunately one of my snaps closely
corresponded. Had I know in advance where we were
going, I would have taken a copy with me to try and
reproduce the image. Even so, it is pretty close:
Cunningly, you have to pass through the gift shop into and out
of the garden, unlike on our last visit a few years ago when the snow and ice
meant that the grounds were out of bounds. Inevitably, on exit, purchases were made, including my
Christmas present, which I can't describe or the surprise would be lost. No doubt we would have eaten there as well
had we not done so before setting off.
As
ever, the Park also looked good; the Kent running past the trees
which still held some fine autumnal colour.
On our side were the Bagot goats whilst opposite there were plenty of
deer to be seen.
The original plan had been to climb up to Well Heads Lane,
no doubt to sit on the bench and enjoy the distant Lakeland view but time was
now tight so we returned by the direct route, partly along the old canal
towpath to the tunnel entrance, near to which was the car.
One
last piece of excitement. Arriving home (well,
nearly) the drive was blocked by a horse that certainly
didn't want to go where its would-be but now dismounted
rider wanted it to go!
Don,
11th November 2012
Note
to self: Don't forget to return to Levens
Hall next time Luca is over and take him to the playground
whilst Margaret admires the plants!
More
scenes of Levens Hall and Park:
Distance:
4.1 miles; Height climbed:
340 feet
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