Having lived in London for more than 29 years, I am attempting to hit some places I have never visited. Having read a book recently in which the main character has a day out at Chelsea Physic Garden and decides to change her career, I thought I might do the same.
I chose a Sunday morning and arrived just before opening time to discover the doors were open so in I went and spent a few hours wandering the grounds of this lovely spot tucked away in Chelsea on the banks of the Thames.
First I strolled through the green houses and discovered a hidden channel that ran along the back. I do love a green house, ever since my first visit to one in the New York Botanical Garden in the 1970s. The balance between humidity and heat is always a challenge. But I emerged into the fresh air and made my way round the perimeter, checking out the various gardens, such as Edible Plants and Useful Plants. I think there were beehives in one corner but they are away from the path.
I stumbled across the Tank Pond and wondered how many unsuspecting visitors attempt to take a short cut through it and fall in. I stopped to look at the male and female ginkgo trees entangled across a path. I took a breather in the Garden of Medicinal Plants, then cut back across the lawn for a look at the Cool Fernery, disturbing a robin which flew out an open window. I finished up with a peep at the carnivorous plants, always fun.
It really is a dreamy spot, only spoiled by a quite outrageously priced cafe, but that is the way of things nowadays.
I have not yet changed career, but I don't discount the possibility.
While I have pictures I want to upload for this post, Google will not allow me to do so.