On Saturday I decided to take advantage of the warm, sunny weather and my National Trust membership to visit Gibside, a beautiful 18th century country estate overlooking the Derwent Valley, only a few miles away from where I live. Gibside was formerly the home of the Bowes-Lyon family before becoming a National Trust property. I thought I’d share some of my photos with you today.

This is Gibside Hall, sadly now in ruins:

Several views of the Orangery, also a ruin:

The long tree-lined Avenue and the path beside it:

The Column of British Liberty, built in the 1750s:

I loved the pretty colours here:

The estate also includes a chapel, stables and a newly restored walled garden (still a work in progress). I didn’t take any pictures of these this time, but maybe on my next visit!