Canterbury

I recently went to Canterbury in Kent for a short day out. I wasn’t able to see everything that makes Canterbury famous but I did see lots that make it a go to for literary fans.

The streams were picturesque with the long grasses growing on the beds, swaying along with the gentle movements of the water. They reminded me of paint strokes made on a canvas, using varying shades of green and yellow.

I also came across Westgate Gardens which is close to Westgate, a medieval gate (now a museum). This too had a beautiful stream which I enjoyed walking alongside to, whilst others enjoyed a gentle, relaxing boat ride on. There were lots of flowers to admire on the way on what was a nice, sunny afternoon.

I hope to go back one day and visit the famous cathedral and maybe have a boat ride but for now these pictures serve as a nice memory of a summer’s day out in a pretty town that really does have an ‘old English’ feel to it.

Fusion

blue and white flowers

I don’t know what these flowers are called but I love the way the lower petals are all white and the upper are blue, making it look like the two separate flowers have been fused together to make these pretty combinations. Also what’s interesting is how the anthers (the yellow bits with the pollen) are on the tips of the petals instead of in the centre of the flower. If anyone knows the name of these lovely flowers please, do let me know.

Crocus

One of the first flowers to bloom in early spring are these pretty crocuses (or croci) which can be found growing in woodland areas, bringing a carpet of colour to the landscape. The bright purple petals with sparks of yellow peeking out always bring me cheer on a dull cold day.

Spring in St Christopher’s Place

It’s starting to feel like Spring has arrived in London and in particular in St Christopher’s Place where a creative installation of 1200 ‘floating’ flowers has been brightening up the street.

As well as the flowers hanging over the street many of the shops have also been creating displays to fit the the theme of the event.

On a bright day like today it was lovely lunchtime stroll and a much needed break from the office. For those of you interested in going to visit you’ll have to be quick as the exhibition is only around for a few more days.

Mother’s Day

It’s Mother’s Day in the UK today, a day for kids to show their love, appreciation and to spoil their mums. My mum got really spoiled today with beautiful flowers and pretty gifts from all her kids and grandkids. Hope all mums out there are enjoying the day and making the most of being pampered.

Orchids festival

Recently I took a trip to Kew Gardens with my last visit being a few years ago. I love Kew Gardens and all the different plants, trees and flowers it has from around the world. I can spent hours there and not lose interest or manage to see everything. My trip this time was to specifically see the Orchids Festival which celebrated the rich biodiversity of Brazil.

Upon entry of the conservatory there was a lovely floral scent and my eyes were drawn to the wide range of flowers in artistic displays hanging from the ceilings and wrapped around pillars. A very unusual plant that caught my eye was Nepenthes. Nepenthes is shaped like a pod and is insectivorous, meaning that it traps and digests insects. This plant was used to create shape and colour in archways to walk under.

The bright colours and the different shapes and sizes of the exotic flowers drew my attention and I found myself weaving along the path from one flower to another delighted that I was able to take a closer look.

The Orchid Festival was really popular and I would certainly recommend a visit. The flowers on show were beautiful in various, vibrant colours and really captured the theme of carnival season in Brazil.