The first snow of the year wasn't quite as much as forecast, but still provided enough to be worthy of wrapping up warm and heading out to the beautiful Harlow Carr Gardens in Harrogate, North Yorkshire.
After a delicious lunch at Betty's Cafe (pictured right) consisting of possibly the best hot chocolate I have ever had in my life, and fat rascals and scones between us, we ventured out into the snow-covered landscape that is Harlow Carr Gardens.
I decided not to take my SLR but instead packed my excellent Panasonic DMC-TZ70 (my "travel camera" - and what a wonderful little camera it is too. all the photos below were taken with it).
Click on any of the thumbnails below to view the larger images.
Despite not being a particularly large amount of snow around, the gardens certainly took on a very wintry aspect that had not been seen at all so far this season. The birds were certainly grateful for the myriad of nuts, seeds and fat balls that had been generously left for them by the garden's staff.
The paths among the garden's grounds were a picture with the blanket of snow, and the chill can be evidently seen with the small pond covered with a layer of ice.
The final destination (before the customary walk round the splendid and well-equipped shop) was the fully-enclosed Alpine Garden, resembling an enormous greenhouse. Packed with beautiful flowers and delightful arrangements, this area also offered a well-received respite from the outside chill.
Harlow Carr Gardens is well worth a visit at any time of year, and this time we were lucky enough to see it in it's winter wonderland state. And if you haven't been to the gardens yet - what are you waiting for?!
