After having my National Trust membership for over a year and a half now, I finally managed to use it for the first time today… Yes, the FIRST time! Shame on me! I signed up with the best intentions of making regular visits to the amazing National Trust places in Surrey and surrounding areas, but for one reason or another it just hasn’t happened until now.
So, today my Dad and I went to the amazingly beautiful Polesden Lacey in Surrey. I’d heard some amazing reviews from friends and family and so I was keen to check it out. My Mum lives pretty close and so it’s been on the cards for a long time!
The view was breathtaking. The sun was out and the sky was blue. A gentle breeze blew and I felt like a tiny speck of dust in the vast landscape in front of me. I stood there and inhaled deeply. For a moment, I was disconnected from the world around me. Although there were people there, it was peaceful. As I looked around me, the place was covered in beautiful flowers and strategically placed trees. It felt very royal in a way and during the tour, I discovered it was indeed a very ‘royal’ place.
I couldn’t help but imagine what parties were like there. It was a residence that had hosted many and the most elite in the land, the world! All of this, almost on my doorstep!
The Tour
Our tour guide was amazing. I was mesmerised by the story of the place. Her short blonde hair and large pearl necklace stood out as she projected across the room to her audience. The rooms were incredible. None more so than the ‘Gold Room’ that was built to entertain royalty and maharajas alike. In the middle of the room hung the most beautiful chandelier I have ever seen. I couldn’t take my eyes off it. It gleamed in the light and commanded almost everyones attention.
After the tour of the house, we headed into the courtyard, where a garden tour was about to begin. The garden tour was a no brainer. My Dad is a keen gardener and looking around the grounds, even if you’re not a fan of gardening, you still want to know how they create the beauty around you! They had these amazing burgundy tulips. So stunning! They lined the flowerbeds around the house and were the opposite of the tulips I was used to seeing in the shops. Everything in this place, including the flowers felt ‘exclusive’.
Reflections
It was such a lovely day. I don’t get to spend much time on my own with my Dad, but we had so much fun that we have decided to make it a more regular thing. Spending time with my Dad is one of my favourite things in the world to do. He’s amazing! He keeps me grounded and along with my husband, is the only other person with the ability to calm me effortlessly. I love my Daddy! Today made me feel thankful for those around me and where I live. I’m so lucky to be surrounded with so much beauty.
Don’t take these places for granted! They can only keep going with your support! Today made me feel proud of my membership rather then thinking it was a waste of money. So much goodness can be maintained and created!
