Castle Howard

On impulse we decided, despite the snow on the hills opposite the house this morning, to get the van ready for a night away. I have always, since seeing Brideshead Revisited, wanted to see Castle Howard. I found a site on the lake opposite the house. It’s low season so only £17 a night with hook up. (Obviously we’ll be using more of their electricity now to keep the van warm than in the summer but we’re not complaining.)

The house is closed till Easter but the camp site gave us a 2 for 1 ticket to see the grounds which we hope to do tomorrow. We walked by the lake when we got here. (25% gradient up Sutton Bank and snow at the top en route to the camp site). It’s bitterly cold out but sunny between sleat and rain.

There’s nothing for it but to relax and read our books, watch the ripples on the lake and listen to the rookery.

Luke’s Dad’s cremation is in Hull in April right in the middle of Nathaniel’s play. Ella wants to go to the funeral but Nathaniel doesn’t. He doesn’t have to decide now. He might change his mind as he’ll want to see the extended family. It’s a 6 hour round trip for them.