Just to prove that woodland do not have the monopoly on Bluebells, here in this rather lost Derbyshire Graveyard they thrive… that is until the the rest of the vegetation takes over.
These overgrown gravestones are beside St. Bartholomew’s Church at Elvaston.
You could very well think that St. Bartholomew’s was no longer in use, few houses near, the graveyard overgrown with only animal tracks weaving their way between the markers. However communion is taken on most Sundays….. there is also a treat on certain Sundays when the tall tower is open for those with a head for heights.
Time and history has changed the importance of this country church. It was part of the once prosperous Elvaston Castle Estate. But times do change many things and now the Castle is basically empty; speculation on various schemes have come and gone. Maybe one day its former glory will be restored. But we can continue to enjoy over 200 acres of woodland, Italian Gardens and open countryside in what is Elvaston Country Park. Add on the old stables, that once must have been a hive of active estate life., its not a bad location for a potter about.
Whilst we enjoyed our exploration of Elvaston, it was not the bright sunny spring morning we were expecting. When we left the sun was shinning and the day looked set fair…
Like many days this unpredictable Spring, the icy north winds brought a quick change in weather fortunes …. still great to be out and about.
Whatever the weather… whatever your plans…. as always….
Please Remember ….
Stay Safe …. Be Kind…. Look After Each Other
24th April
(C) David Oakes 2024
DAVID OAKES - IMAGES. 