It was late summer and the weather was holding up. A perfect day for exploring the beautiful grounds at Arlington Court.
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| Arlington House, North Devon |
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| A rather grand staircase, Arlington House |
The boxy exterior of the house belies the interesting objects inside the house. The Chichester family were hoarders: from model ships to seashells to pewter, and what an eclectic collection it is. Was it a hobby or was it an obsession? Was the collection habit in the genes?
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An example of a very extensive sea shell collection,
beautifully arranged |
They family travelled extensively and they brought home treasures that would once considered as exotic. The place is almost like a museum, although the objects on display were not of museum grade. Modern day travels for many people are about sun, sea, sand and sangria. How times have changed.
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A well used trunk. What a difference half a century makes.
Now we have wheeled cases and bar codes on luggage tags. |
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One of the carriages on display at the National Trust Carriage Museum,
Arlington Court |
Arlington Court boasts an interesting collection of carriages. The most valuable item is the gloriously golden Speaker's Coach, on loan from the Houses of Parliament. It is a magnificent object, elaborately carved and gilded, with allegorical paintings on the doors and side panels. Alas, photography is forbidden.
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| The Victorian garden at Arlington Court |
The Victorian garden within the grounds of Arlington House was recently restored, and what a success it is. It was a tranquil place to visit and to take a rest. There was even a resident peacock. A perfect place to end a summer day out.
