Canons Ashby

Visited on Friday 25 Feb 2017. Still considering whether to end my membership over the fox-hunting issue . . . or shall I just write to them in protest??

I forgot to pack my 'big' camera, so all photos here were taken with the phone.

Canons Ashby house was built by John and Elizabeth Dryden around a small farmhouse and the remains of a large medieval priory. John inherited the estate through his wife in the 1550s. Some interesting aspects of the history of the place can be found here.

The gardens, were laid out from 1708-1710 by Edward Dryden, nephew of the poet John Dryden.

The sundial dates from 1710

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The shepherd boy died when he warned the family of a Royalist attack by blowing his flute. The Drydens were Puritans, and supporters of Cromwell and the Parliamentarians. The statue was made in 1713.

The house from the Lion gates - the lion and sphere was a family crest.

The priory church

Tree shadows

The first lambs I've noticed - and they are huge.

Part of the church

This window was originally in the priory, but was removed following its dissolution.

A heavy Jacobean plasterwork ceiling in the drawing room has had to be supported by metal braces.

The wall painting is an example of late 16th century decoration.

I enjoyed the nursery with its rocking horse

high chair . . .

and puppet theatre.

Small domestic objects intrigue - like this hot water bottle.

I'm told this is "bargeware". Tea for two, anyone?

Figs

The lake at the bottom of the parkland area.

Some rather jolly topiary.

The church and a picnic area.