Flatford Mill, Constable Country

Bridge Cottage, Flatford

 

Saturday was dry in our neck of the woods. It was sunny at times (sufficiently sunny for an ice cream 😊), but largely cloudy. We took a trip to Flatford, where the RSPB Wildlife Garden has been saved and will continue under the National Trust. 

2026 marks the 250th anniversary of John Constable's birth and there are a number of commemorative events and exhibitions this year, including three exhibitions in Christchurch Mansion, Ipswich.   

 

There were several newts ...

... and pond-skaters

 

in or on the wildlife pond. 

The Kingcups were stunning. 

Water meadows to the left of the River Stour

Looking back through the lock gates

The blossom was out of this world. 

I'm guessing these are Dock Beetle eggs ...

  

A beautiful way to spend a spring afternoon. 

Playing catch-up... Flatford Mill

 

We have returned from our Easter travels, and spent this afternoon closer to home at Flatford Mill. It was a rather grey scene, and judging by the size of the puddles, we arrived at a timely moment after a heavy downpour.

The lack of sunshine meant that there were few insects on the wing and no sign of newts in the pond. However, I kept a sharp eye open as we made our way along the towpath, and David took the photo above of what I believe are Green Dock Leaf Beetle (Gastrophysa viridula) eggs.

It was a joy to find Iris ...

... and Prunus in flower in the RSPB Wildlife Garden. I hope there will be butterflies on the wing when we go next time.

Iconic Flatford Mill