The April meeting was a visit by coach to Ascott House, a National Trust house and garden just outside Leighton Buzzard
Formerly it had been a hunting lodge for the Rothschild family but many rooms had since been demolished. the house was
filled with treasures brought back from their travels. These were displayed in 5 rooms on the ground floor. The guides were
friendly and knowledgeable, allowing us to wander around in a free flow system. there was a golf buggy available to transport
visitors between the carpark and the House.
Outside the gardens and parkland were spectacular. Distant views of the white lion on the hillside close to
Whipsnade zoo were possible. The parkland and gardens were filled with magnificent mature trees.
Everywhere the lawns and flower beds were pristine. With the aid of garden maps, we were able to
wander at our leisure in the sunshine. Plenty of seating was available, with the exception being around the
pond, which had a recently laid footpath.
Everyone enjoyed the spectacular Dutch garden, filled with
beautiful tulips and jonquils around a large fountain.
Closer to the house-was a large pond which freezes over in the winter to provide opportunities for skating
Nearby was an area called Lynn’s garden, dedicated
to a former wife of one of the Rothschilds. It was based on mounds planted around by blossom trees and surrounded by moats where the water had been coloured black. Very spectacular, as shown in the photo
herein.
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We all agreed that it was a really enjoyable day, just one hour away on a coach. If you have an opportunity
to visit, you will not be disappointed.