Less nostalgia, more local treasures....

Weather was kinder to us today than has been of late. That might be the understatement of the year - the sun shone and I think the temperature might have hit 20 celsius... so somewhere outside for a wee walk was indicated. I know, Laois! Heywood gardens has been on the hitlist for a while since I saw it mentioned somewhere, so we struck out, as you do, in the car.

We hit Abbeyleix first, though, to see could we get a bit of lunch. A swift pie (I know, on a day like this?) in the Gallic Kitchen on Main St, which was delicious (one steak and guinness, one chicken and mushroom, both yummy) and in a lovely poky friendly café - highly recommended. Will hit this spot again on another day. Coffee and Brownie to finish!

On we went, heading in Ballinakill direction to Heywood Gardens. There's a school on the grounds, which is a bit strange and gives you that "did we take the right turn?" moment, but it was the right place. A lovely and unusual pair of gardens awaits the visitor, one set being very formal, set in circular form around a pond and a walled garden and the other more freeform and natural set around a much more natural pond with beautiful waterlilies and a woodland surround. The place was lovely for a walk on a warm day, and the trail takes you right into Ballinakill village, which we didn't quite go as far as - there was barbecuing to do!

Maybe some photos to come from the day - there's also a beer report (Beerdog Paradox, and Aecht Schenkerla) and some nostalgic reading to mention. And Vegas photos, don't forget those! Maybe it'll rain and I can get them typed up. Until then.....