Perchance a picnic

Nothing quite says British Summer time like a jolly good picnic, so that's precisely what we did. Laden with quiche, couscous salad, scotch eggs, sausage rolls, salad, brownies, buns and sweets we ventured into the grounds of Harewood House to a nice shady tree looking towards the house and laid out our feast. Being very civilised (with cutlery and plates what what) we enjoyed the views of the magnificent house but our tranquility was disturbed by a pesky duck who decided that he wanted some quiche too.

 

Mr. Duck was alas to be disappointed as he ventured closer and closer to our picnic rug and was denied any food. He made his displeasure clear by pooing next to us before flying off. Charming

The day that we decided to visit Harewood House happened to be the same day that the BBC were going to be filming 'Death Comes To Pemberley' a sequel of sorts to Jane Austen's Pride and Predjudice. Starring Matthew Rhys, Anna Maxwell-Martin and Jenna Coleman the three part drama based on the novel by P.D James has been adapted for screen by Juliette Towhidi. (Calander Girls)

Due to the filming, the house and servants quarters shut at three so we were just able to squeeze in a quick look around the kitchen before we were sent packing. If you have ever been to a stately home (and if not, why not?) you come to expect the rooms to be laid out like they were in yesteryear, displaying the furniture and instruments used. The kitchen and pantry were in keeping with the stately home ideal but turn the corner to go into the next room and there was an exhibition of modern art. Confused much.

The adventure continued with a trip to the bird garden to see the flamingoes, pheasants, geese and have a good giggle with the laughing kookaburra. Our visit coincided with feeding time and we watched on with amusement as a gaggle of ducks followed the bird keeper everywhere he went hoping that they would get some food too. 

 Our fun day out was concluded by eating strawberries and cream and watching Wimbledon, not at all stereotypically British. Anyone for a round of the national anthem?