Yesterday Kate and I decided to be productive by travelling to another historical site around Nottingham. After Friday's extreme relaxation (save NUAC training and an excursion to hear a band playing at the Lion), it was a change to wake up before ten and go somewhere. Kate and I made our way to Newstead Abbey by tram and then bus. The large front gates were right alond the motorway and we were greeted by a kind old gentleman who told us where to go... after a walk down a wooded road, we were instructed by a rather tattered sign to take the 'woodland path' to the Abbey. Walking through the trees and bushes, listening to the birds chirping and the other small animals rustling about in the underbrush, Kate and I were beginning to realize that we were about to be pleasantly surprised. Once we got to the main grounds of the Abbey (after passing a cricket match and many swans lazing in the water), the Abbey (converted to a stately home in the late sixteenth century) was beautifully situated next to a small lake. Kate and I made our way through the interior and were suitably impressed by the ornate furniture, elaborate decoration and priceless works of art. The house seemed to go on forever. After many, many rooms, we made our way out to the gardens. With icecream treats in hand, we made ourway past two of the interconnected lakes towards the Japanese garden. In the spirit of 'not living my life through a camera lens' as Carol would say, I did not bring my camera, neither did Kate. As soon as we set foot in the gardens, we realized that it was a mistake. Thanks to Google Images, I have included a few pics of the place anyway. The gardens were beautiful - I think the Japanese garden was my favorite, but the rose garden, the herb garden and the landscaping around the streams and lakes were also quite impressive. The flowers, trees and shrubs were in full bloom and the blossoms perfumed the air. We actually got to see a swan nest with over protective mother and eggs included. After wandering around for quite some time, soaking up the sun and appreciating the gardens, we decided to make our way back. Once back in Notts, we shopped a bit (buying gifts for family and friends is proving to more difficult than I previously thought) and headed back home. The girls went out for a bit of a girls night to some of the places we had not visted yet, but we didn't stay out late. It was a good day.
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