Family day out ... Tuesday 22nd Oct

Today has been designated as family day-out day in the Perry household. The teenagers have been told/requested to keep it free from social engagements. The weather is pretty awful at the moment, with wind and rain dominating, but the forecast is for an improvement this afternoon.

So after an early lunch we climb into the car and head off to Tatton Park (Cheshire) for some fresh air and culture. Due I suspect to the earlier weather conditions it is not too busy when we get there, and happily for us it is actually quite warm this afternoon. Tatton Park is run by the National Trust, and we decide look to around the house first. The lack of crowds makes it a lovely experience for us, as we can chat and wander at our own pace. From original paintings to rare books, and exotica collected from around the world it is very impressive. The National Trust volunteers are very knowledgeable and friendly, and one even kindly shows us a hall that is closed today. The last Baron Egerton of Tatton was a fascinating man and we can’t help but be impressed by how widely travelled he was for his time (early to mid 1900’s), and how well respected and liked he was by his estate workers and the community. We even have time to do a family quiz as we go around, taking turns to find the clues.

We sit down for a drink outside in a lovely enclosed courtyard cafe and chat happily together, without the teenagers being on their mobile devices. Then its boots on, and off for a walk through the woods which are stunning in the autumn light. The only danger is the risk of chestnuts falling on your head. The deer in the park are sitting quietly with the stags standing looking imperious with their antlers on show. Despite it being rutting season all is quiet in this idyllic spot today.

On the way home we stop off at a pub for something to eat, not somewhere we’ve been before. It’s busy which is usually a good sign, but the service is prompt, and the food good value, especially with the discount voucher I printed off earlier. They even have a decent pint of bitter on for me. It is dark by the time we get home, which is unusual for the Perry family as our track record at staying out for a long time is not great. But today we have had a good family outing, and all enjoyed ourselves together. Happy days, happy memories.

Yours enjoying family time.

Jay