Family Day At Basildon Park

A few weekends ago we went to explore Basildon Park, which is not too far from where we live in Berkshire. We love National Trust properties, obviously they are always very beautiful properties, but you can also be assured the facilities will be great too; clean toilets and a good cafe. As I am getting older these things are becoming increasingly important to me! I also remember being grateful for their baby changing facilities when Baby was younger, not everywhere is as nice!

Basildon Park is set in the sprawling Berkshire countryside near Reading.  You enter the property through the pretty stable yard, which houses the loos, shop and small cafe; then exit through the arch to take a walk through the woods and gardens to get to the main house.  I had a little peek in the gift shop, as Mr Hubby was buying me a cup of tea, and there were lots of lovely things, including some beautiful jewellery.

Armed with some hot drinks we set off up towards the main house.  Dotted along the path were these gorgeous carved benches, which were so pretty.

The views were gorgeous, typically of the english countryside, rolling fields with the daffodils adding a splash of spring brightness to the scene.  I just adore the lushness of the British countryside, I don’t think you can beat it.

The house was very impressive sat on the top of the hill. I did let myself daydream for a few moments about living in such a house, then we decided we probably couldn’t stretch the the heating bill!

We decided to have a wander round the gardens before finding the cafe for lunch.  We really enjoyed the mixture of more formal gardens, child-friendly areas and open fields to explore.

There was even a tiny maze for little ones to have fun in.

Then the big field called and we went to take in the views, collect branches(?), pick flowers….

and have a good old run around!

We had lunch in the very grand cafe which is situated in the main house, before it was time to explore some more.

The gardens are so pretty and interesting; we loved this seating area.

It wasn’t too much longer before it was time to head back towards the car, as we were all getting a little bit chilly.

Of course there were still lots of opportunities for Mummy to snap some photos along the way!

We had a lovely time at Basildon Park; such a relaxed day out, but I always find these days are so much sweeter than the ones with all the bells and whistles. Just me, my little family and some beautiful scenery.

Disclosure: We were guests of Basildon Park, but were not obliged to write about our experience.