National Trust Ickworth House

Ickworth House has long been a favourite National Trust property of mine and although hubby doesn't like stately homes he knew how much a visit while we were in Suffolk would mean to me as I haven't been in at least 4 years. 

His parents came with us but his Dad can't walk far so it was a good excuse for them to sit on a bench taking in their surroundings and talking football with Charlie while me, Harry, Molly and Mother in law took a walk through the parkland.  

Parson's Pond

I was really pleased to see that the church had been renovated and we were able to step inside as I had always wondered what it looked like. It seemed such a shame to have it closed up to visitors. 

Decorated roof over the Hervey family pew.

I rarely capture stained glass windows well but I was really pleased with this one.

Having bought a copy of the brochure detailing the history of the church and seeing photos of before the renovations I am amazed at how much work was undertaken. It's a beautiful church, inside and out, and full of history of the Hervey family.

After the church we walked towards the walled garden. I always love a walled garden and this one is no exception. I could imagine myself spending hours sitting in the summer house overlooking the canal.

This meadow was awash with colour but my camera let me down!

While we were walking around the garden Molly was plaiting her hair but didn't have a hairband to finish it off with so Grandma suggested a natural tie made of grass!

After a picnic lunch by the woodland play area we left Grandad again and walked the Albana Walk and the children took part in some of the trim trail.

Fabulous farmland views.

The boys indulged in some tree climbing.

I think Harry was meant to be doing sit ups here but decided to lay back and chill instead!

Once we'd found Grandad again Molly and I went inside the house and everyone else stopped for refreshments in the Italianate Garden.

The house has changed a lot since we last went in and there are a number of new exhibits. We also got to explore more of the servants area of the house.

The Pompeian Room is stunning. 

I'd love an entrance hall like this!

Croquet was set up on the lawn but the children played it more like golf. I had visions of Harry whacking a ball through one of the windows of the Orangery!

It was soon closing time so I didn't get chance to explore the Italianate Garden-but that gives me an excuse to go back one day soon.

I'd never taken much notice of the friezes on the rotunda before but there were close-up photos in the house. They are so intricate and detailed and it certainly pays to look up more often!

We left after a full day there but there were still lots of parts we had missed. That's what I love about National Trust properties-it's so easy to fill a day but also go back time and time again and find something new.