Bus Challenge No 61!!

A cultural, botanical, historical, gastronomical, horticultural and educational day out!

Felt the need to see a castle today (as you do!) so headed into Bath on an early bus to meet my Bus Challenge friend where we took a second bus back to Westwood in Wiltshire.

From Westwood, we set off down narrow county lanes to Iford Manor, a beautiful manor house dating back to the late 15th century, famous for its Peto Gardens (extra photo 2). Crossing the River Frome (extra photo 1), we then followed a footpath along the river, through gorgeous wildflower meadows (extra photo 3). Thankfully the 'Beware of the Bull' warning signs were just there for show!

Arriving in Farleigh Hungerford, one of the remaining towers of the medieval castle towered above us. Farleigh Hungerford Castle now lies in ruins but the Eastern Gatehouse still stands proudly guarding the castle (extra photo 4). After a tour of the castle, it was time for a local farmhouse ice cream before heading back towards Westwood.

En route, we came across an elderly man who explained he was picking Wild Asparagus from the hedgerows, also known as Bath Asparagus (extra photo 5), as the countryside around Bath is one of the few places where this plant grows. You learn something new every day!

Another grand day out on a beautiful Summer's day!!

Bus journey time = 2 hour 15 mins
Waiting time in between buses = 55 mins
Total journey time = 3 hours 10 mins