Today we decided to visit the National Trust place, The Vyne near Basingstoke. On the way we stopped near Odiham, in a forestry car park for a cup of tea from our flask. There are free roaming horses in this forest and I think one especially wanted to help Dave pour our tea. He became quite a pest, and getting out of the car park was difficult too as about 7 horses were all stood in the middle of the little car park.







We were quite disappointed with the Vyne, the house was interesting inside but not very interesting from the outside and the gardens (well a border, basically) was very meagre. These are the few photos I took. Dave took some as well so maybe I'll add more tomorrow.























I've no idea what this plant is, they are poppy-like but huge, each flower the size of a saucer or small tea plate.

That last flower is a Gordonia or Fried Egg bush I think, June. I have quite a large one in my garden. Lovely photos.

Thanks Hazel. I was hoping they might have some for sale in the NT shop, but they didn't. I shall have to look out for it at the garden centres.

Just looked it up on Gooogle, not sure now, the leaves are totally different Hazel

I just noticed that, too, June. I'll see what else I can find out. My Gordonia has identical flowers, though.

Once again June, lovely pics.

I agree with you Daisy B the Vyne at Nr Basingstoke is not value for money at all, I find like many National Trust properties very sparse inside regarding furniture,

Really great pics June.

Vince wrote:I agree with you Daisy B the Vyne at Nr Basingstoke is not value for money at all, I find like many National Trust properties very sparse inside regarding furniture,

So the Vyne was not devine?

No Tony.