The HouseAnd then there were eleven, some of our party were missing including our leader Joan. However Margaret and Robert took the helm. The weather conditions deteriorated markedly giving us rain and sleet as we drove south on the A1M. After some navigational problems we arrived at Hodsock and were warmly greeted by Sir Andrew and Lady Buchanan the present owners. The weather conditions were poor so the party was happy to gravitate to the marquee tea room to realise their vouchers for a free cup of tea. We explored the gardens and woodland at our leisure (some of us completed the route twice). We marvelled at the swaths of snowdrops, aconities, iris, cyclamen, mahonia, winter honeysuckle, witch hazel as well as fungi. 
Bank Of CyclamenEarly afternoon and sunshine appeared. The group set off again in the direction of the woodland. At two o'clock several of us gathered around the bonfire at the woodland hut to listen to George Buchanan, son of the owner, tell us the history of the family and the house. Birds seen by the group included goldcrest, blue and great tits, robin, tree creeper and pied wagtail. A woodpecker was heard.Our visit was enjoyed by all. We expressed our gratitude to Robert for driving safely in difficult conditions.Margaret