On the history trail

So, yesterday, after a very peaceful night, we made for Polesden Lacey  another NT house. You may have gathered by now that we are on a historic castle, manor and houses trail. Having joined National Trust, Historic Houses and English Heritage, we were determined to get value for money. So for those not interested in any of the above, sorry about that, I know there are lots of interesting blogs out there instead.  But for those of you that would like to stay and enjoy my ramblings, there will be plenty more of this to come. You have been warned!
Polesden Lacey was a grand house, everything we expected from walking around the downstairs rooms. The grand staircase had a rope across, mores the pity.  What we did see had all the opulence we expected. 
We were a bit early to see the splender and colour of the magnificence gardens, most plants hadn't bloomed yet but everything was immaculate and had we arrived a couple of weeks later, would have enjoyed it even more.

 A noise above had Ian craning his neck to see what was coming, I took a photo for his benefit (not mine of course, he is the plane fanatic) "It's a Dakota" he said! Well I have to take his word because to me a plane is just a plane!

Time was getting on, and we hadn't sorted a park for the night. Ranmore Common nr Dorking looked promising. Run by NT, we could stay at the car park for free. The road was alongside but luckily quite quiet. Quiet also was the phones and internet. Not a signal to be had, and we only just managed a few channels on the TV.  It was lovely though and had our legs allowed us, we would have walked along the Denbies Hillside. Too blooming knackered to even attempt it, oh to be young and fit again. 

  And wildlife seen today.