A Day at Cragside
Cragside has to be one of my favourite places I've visited.
Set among the hills of Northumberland, this Victorian estate feels like somewhere you could spend an entire day exploring and still find something you hadn't noticed before.
The house was built in the nineteenth century and became the first house in the world to be lit using hydroelectric power, generated from the surrounding water. Inside, the library has beautiful views towards the bridge and formal gardens, while the dining room, drawing room and billiard room each reveal another glimpse into life at Cragside during the Victorian era. The large marble fireplace in the dining room is particularly impressive.
But for me, it was the gardens and surrounding landscape that provided some of the best opportunities for photography. There are woodland paths, open views and peaceful walks around the lake. When we visited, the rhododendrons were only just beginning to bloom. There were splashes of colour appearing here and there, hinting at the spectacular display that was still to come. I'd love to return later in the year when the flowers are fully out and the gardens have been transformed.
I think Cragside will be one of those places I'll keep coming back to with my camera.
