To Cragside via Middle Earth

Enjoyed a day out today that I regularly recommend to guests, a trip across to Cragside to see the famous Rhododendrons in full bloom – and truly beautiful they were too. Miles upon miles of these bright pink flowers along both sides of the 6 mile carriage drive and also around  Nelly’s Moss lake, where we enjoyed a walk with our six year old and her best friend.

Rhododendrons

Although we didn’t visit the house today as it was just too sunny to go inside, it is well worth a visit if you get the chance. A trip through the kitchens always reminds me of growing up at Bog Mill and the old range fire that dominated our front room, a similar one to that seen in Cragside kitchen. Their bathroom though does slightly have the edge on ours.

My very favourite part of the trip though is always the journey from Alnwick to Rothbury, the most spectacular view from Corby Crags. Demonstrated by the same view used in the publicity posters for the film The Hobbit. Though didn’t spot Gandolph as we passed today.

Northumberland