On 21st August a small but select group of our members joined Coventry u3as garden visit by coach to Arley Hall, near Knutsford. I first became aware of Arley Hall as a location for TV productions, particularly Peaky Blinders. However, our visit concentrated on the extensive gardens, which were a revelation. We were fortunate with the weather, which stayed dry and quite comfortable as the temperature climbed in the afternoon following a pleasantly cool morning. It was perfect for the three hours or more that it took us see everything of note, and there was still plenty of time to sit in the sun sampling delicious homemade cakes (it's a hard life).

Features of the garden include a double herbaceous border, reputed to be the earliest to be established in the UK (1846), an avenue of 14 holm oaks clipped to the shape of giant cylinders, and elaborate topiary. There are also two walled gardens, a large collection of shrubs, including roses, an informal woodland garden and a woodland walk. Despite the undeniable impact that the hot summer has had on the flowering plants, the gardens were spectacular and with relatively few visitors, the atmosphere was one of peace and tranquillity. Even the queues on the M6 as we returned through Birmingham couldn't spoil a very enjoyable expedition.

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