Autumn Colour14 of us enjoyed our morning visit to the gardens of Littlethorpe Manor which had been arranged for us by Janet who unfortunately was still on jury service - we were, however, ably looked after by Philip. Littlethorpe Manor which is situated on the outskirts of Ripon has 11 acres of grounds and is owned by Mr and Mrs Thackray. We were given a guided tour by Eddie Harland, head gardener (who was responsible for the design and planting of the garden), following tea and cake in the marquee. The gardens were quite stunning! We passed from the Walled Garden divided into sections representing the four seasons with appropriate flowers and sculptures into the Sunken garden consisting of a box parterre and containing interesting fruit trees, medlar and kiwi as well as old roses and herbs. Passing through the front of the house we walked into the drive with an aqualens surrounded by hornbeams. We crossed the lawns admiring a magnificent walnut tree. The vista in front of the house which included a lake with a fountain and an avenue of pollared rubra lime trees which led to a pond and classical pavillion was stunning. 
Winter GardenThe Winter Garden which we visited is a recent addition with white Himalayan birch, beech hedges and colourful dogwood shrubs. There was so much to see and appreciate. In the afternoon we enjoyed a stroll down a section of the Ripon canal with brief stops at the bird hides which overlooked a large lake. Greylag geese, cormorant ,coot, lapwing and great crested grebe were seen. Late summer flowers were noted by Joan and Alice. A relaxing and enjoyable day was had by all. The day started with some rain but ended in sunshine.
Margaret