Autumn Arboretum

When you wake up to a morning like today, you just have to put any jobs on hold, and head out to the countryside.
Oh the joys of retirement!

We drove up the A1 and into Bedale, and Thorp Perrow Arboretum.
We were hoping the trees would be showing their gorgeous autumn tints, and we weren't disappointed.
The beautiful cloudless blue sky was a bonus.

Also managed to catch the Birds of Prey demonstration. 
I was surprised to get some good photos of the eagle owl, as I only had my little pocket Lumix. Which as usual was set on auto.

It was busier than usual as there was a Halloween Trail for the children, although half term and it will be crowded no doubt.
I remember taking our grandchildren in the past.
Away from the children it was peaceful and so relaxing walking round.

We called at a little pub nearby in the tiny village of Wall.
I can recommend the Millbank Arms. Delightful traditional pub, with excellent food.
The courgette, pea and basil soup was so tasty.

Then stopped off for a walk round Nosterfield Nature Reserve, near Masham.
Another hidden gem. A vast assortment of ducks, geese and waders on the lagoon. 

A beautiful blue sky day autumn day.
Finished off with fish and chips from our local chippy.

Collage of Thorp Perrow for my blip.
The map shows you where it is.