Today was a two-for-one day. Driving back from Devon during some of the hottest weather so far this year, we stopped off at a couple of places to break the journey.

First we called in at the RSPB reserve at Ham Wall. Last time we were there, we went on a guided walk but this time we were on our own. However we enjoyed seeing many birds including hobbies, grebes, coots, egrets and what was probably a pair of Cetti’s warblers. I took a few photos and will have to see if any of them provide evidence one way or the other or just show blurred, bird-like shapes.

Further on, we took another detour to visit Dyrham Park, a National Trust site featuring a late 17th century house and gardens set in extensive grounds. We didn’t explore thoroughly but it is definitely one to return to while we continue as members of the Trust. Our highlight was the display of tulips – beautiful in the formal garden but even better in the neighbouring section where they grow in the grass surrounding trees with dots of colour.

And now, I think, time to welcome some sleep!