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Driving along this coastal road in East Lothian, it's impossible to tell what lies behind the old wall shielding stunted wind blasted trees. |
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The gate house - today is open day so we are invited to drive through the front gates! |
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This part neoclassical, part Victorian mansion, set in mature woodlands is privately owned and is open for only a few days every year. However by purchasing a permit, anyone can walk around the estate lakes and woodland throughout the year. |
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In past times formal flower gardens in front of the house were accessed via the terrace. |
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The building was originally designed by Robert Adam and built around 1800. Decorative lions,swans,urns and sphinxes are in evidence everywhere. |
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This bored looking lion is one of a pair guarding gates to the main entrance below. |
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The principal entrance Sorry I can't show the interior and large collections of paintings. As is so often the case, no photography is allowed indoors. |
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On the other side,the original main entrance where guests would have alighted from carriages. |
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Directly above, a swan stands on a crown, supported by lions and flanked by two sphinxes. |
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Sphinx - half woman and half lion. |
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The woodlands contain a variety of trees, both old and young. |
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Forestry vehicles lurk in the woods like something from the film Avatar. |
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Next post - the stables and lily pond ........... Shared with Our world Tuesday Skywatch Friday |
