Autumnal Bateman's gardens

I went to Bateman's with a friend today.. It was mild for this time of the year.. 16 degrees.  Normally it's scarves, gloves hats etc. but today, a light jacket was all that was needed.

The light was weird.. sometimes grey skies, sometimes a bit of sun, but often glary making photography a bit of a challenge

Had a great wander around the gardens..

Lichen

We walked around the Mill area where there a few pine trees.. ah, what's that I hear/
Mistle Thrust, Redwings and a very fast and flighty Goldcrest.. just lovely to see.

Various fungi.. but don't know the names..

and then back into the more formal gardens

Lunch, and a very tasty scone for lunch

Back through the car park to this relatively new area - the Wild Play Area for children.. Really good use of the space and plenty of areas for children to explore and experience.

Last time I was here, this sculpture was in the process of being .. sculpted.  I really like it!

Lovely day, weather reasonable, and great company.