Cliveden is an Italianate mansion with extensive grounds and an interesting history, including being the residence of the Astors and being the location linked with the Profumo Affair. There are even particular Mediterranean land snails that were found here, thought to have hitch-hiked to Britain along with the balustrade in the 19th century!
We enjoyed the grounds and the interiors, peeking at suits of armour and even at the wine decanter, a work of art in itself.
A great family occasion to be remembered...
A delicious three-course lunch. We were intrigued by the subtleties of fine dining hospitality - wondering how different staff remembered which courses we ordered when we went into different rooms, asking the French sommelier a few questions to learn about the wine, and asking the secret to the Cliveden Christmas pudding (the chef would only say that it is cooked in a bain-marie at 150 degrees for 2 hours!).
A last walk outside in the grounds to admire the sunset.
Not many days to go now until Dave and I are packing our bags. We are enjoying being at the Evans home and loving the family company over the holidays. We've caught up with many friends and have just a bit more time to say goodbye to everyone here. However...happily we can say that we will be expecting quite a few visitors while we're in New Zealand!
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