No, not that one on the River Thames. This one is on the River Lugg in Herefordshire and actually predates the one near London. The castle dates from about the same period as The Woodhouse, the early fifteenth century, but the gardens are what really appeal to us, though as usual, we manged to miss the wisteria tunnel this year. It must be absolutely beautiful in flower, and to walk beneath it with the scent of wisteria and the sight of the huge trunks is a pleasure I keep promising myself. The organic vegetable garden which supplies the Orangery restaurant  is a pleasure at most times, and the old Victorian garden walls surround an area with canals and a central pavilion. The secret tunnel behind the waterfall in the sunken garden leads to the gothic tower at the centre of the maze, which delights all visiting children.

With a new owner, determined to invite more people in to share the beauty of the property, the castle is hosting a number of events this summer, including riverside strolls as part of the Herefordshire Walking Festival, outdoor theatre, gardening  and wildlife events. It sounds lovely, and a visit  as part of a break into the beautiful Herefordshire countryside is a must in our opinion. It is our favourite tourist attraction locally; in fact, I should think it attracts as many locals as tourists!