Frozen leaves make a very satisfying crunch when you step on them.
There is parking closer by to where I was heading but it was a lovely day and I needed a walk.
Lots of ice around ...
Through Cumberland gate.
Heading towards Savill Garden - thirty five acres of established gardens and woodland within the Windsor Great Park, it's usually hefty entrance fee (£10.50 which makes Kirstenbosch's R60 - about £3.50 look decidedly affordable) is reduced to zero during the winter. Of course there isn't as much to see as there is in summer, but enough to make it worth the effort.
The visitor's centre is located on what was a beech tree plantation which was destroyed during a hurricane in 1986! It was constructed from timber harvested from the nearby Crown Estate. I love the undulating roof and the inside is spectacular.
Time to warm up a bit. There are renovations going on within the building so it's only partially open and the menu is limited.
There must have been a very cold snap here over night as everything was frozen.
About 2cm of ice covered the pond.
Just a small portion of running water and the ducks were jostling for position.
The dogwood (cornus) brings colour to a dull landscape.
The robins also bring a spot of bright colour.
Leaves and plants are transformed by ice formations.
Another fat little robin.
Into another world altogether - sub-tropical and balmy.
All too soon, back out into the cold. Lots of little creatures out taking advantage of the only very slightly warm sun.
So funny to see the ducks and birds strutting across the frozen water.
That's enough for now - my face was freezing, even at 2pm. Time to head home.
Haha Fat Robin!
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