Wow, what weather! With lockdown eased and a new tier system looming, we headed to meet some friends at Castle Howard. What started as a nice day, ended up bitterly cold and windy.

We arrived a little early so did as we usually do and went and had a cup of tea. James was on top form, supping away on his hot chocolate like a real little man.

It was not long before our friends arrived and we headed into the Castle Howard estate. The weather started nice, however, over the course of the day, that was too change. However, we headed in, sunglasses on a spring in our step.

We headed into the woods first to try and tire the little men out before lunch and the play park. It was a great idea as we spent a good couple of hours exploring.

Before too long though it was time for lunch. we managed to bag ourselves a table by the lake. By this time, the wind was blowing a gale and it was bitterly cold. We huddle up with a cup of tea and shivered our way through lunch.

Once we had scoffed lunch, we unleashed the little ones on the play park. Despite the kids throwing themselves all over the climbing equipment, the only casualty was Lyns as she brained herself on a beam while trying to take a photo.

Before too long though, it was time to start thinking about head back. We, of course, took the scenic route via the pond and the walled garden. The kids got absolutely drenched as the wind was whipping the fountain water through the air like a hose.

Even though the wind tried to blow us away and we got drenched through, covered in mud and freezing cold, we all had an amazing day, as usual!!