Flatford Mill

I have been wanting to visit Flatford for so long but as it's a few hours drive from where we live it didn't seem worth it. However, the stars aligned as Mr Poachie's son wanted to visit a car meet nearby so we combined the trip so that whilst the two of them saw supercars, I had a peaceful wander in this stunning setting.

This is actually my second visit here; I first visited on a school trip many years ago. I remember it well though and as I wandered around today I could almost hear the laughter and the teachers telling us off!

Flatford lies in the heart of the beautiful Dedham Vale. This charming hamlet was the inspiration for some of John Constable's most famous pictures, for example, the Hay Wain or Boatbuilding near Flatford Mill among many others. Wandering beside the River Stour or looking at Flatford Mill and Willy Lott's House you can feel as if you are actually walking through one of his paintings.

There is something about being close to water that makes life so calming. I could have happily stayed all afternoon watching the dragon flies, ducks and the heron. With the lush green water and the red stone brick exterior it was a dream to photograph.

The tearoom is open and is next to the river where you can self launch a paddle board or kayak (if you own one). I currently don't own one but I am working on it! I was thinking of maybe joining a club so that I could kayak on a Sunday morning, wouldn't that be a great way to start the day?!

Whilst I was here I walked around the orange estate trail which took about 20 minutes and was very easy, the views were gorgeous and along the way were signposts for all of the birds and wildlife that you might spot.

I am so glad that I went back, it felt like a trip down memory lane but seeing somewhere beautiful with fresh eyes.

I hope you all had a lovely Sunday!