The first week in October I am going on holiday. Regular readers will know doubt be saying "well that's a shock him on holiday"
Well part of the time will be in Dorset and I thought I'd give you a sneak preview of somewhere I am definitely going whilst there.
The small village of Abbotsbury has a fine Sub Tropical Garden but it is really famous for its Swannery. This is the only place in England where you can walk through the middle of a colony of swans. And when I say through, I mean through, they are right next to you.
The Swannery was established by Benedictine Monks who built a monastery at Abbotsbury during the 1040's. The monks farmed the swans to produce food for their lavish banquets. St Peter's monastery was destroyed in 1539 during the dissolution. Some of the ruins are still visible around St Nicholas' Church in the village. Since that time the Swannery has been under the stewardship of the Ilchester Estates.
The swannery is right next to chesil beach and so you can do some birding as well. I am hoping for a nice bright day and my camera will be revved up.
But I thought you might like a an early taster, so here is a link where you can take a virtual tour. Enjoy
6 comments:
The swannery featured on Nature Watch last week and Karen and i have decided we will go in late Spring when we may see the cygnets hatching. You can buy a combined ticket with the tropical gardens!
Had a look...WOW!
Mary - my last visit was in April 2005 I think. Was superb. I can get into the garden for free as its HHA.
OC - you would love it.
Excellent, my kind of place. No long lens needed here!
Cushy job you must have. :)
Watch you don't break your arm! It looks lovely. The only surprise is that October is 10 weeks away. You'll never last at work that long.
Post a Comment