Eye-openers

Around 100 different Japanese irises (Iris ensata, sometimes sold as I. kaempferi) are scattered throughout the boggy areas but the best display we found were in a hidden clump clustered around the last lake's outlet.

The combination of velvety purples, pastels and whites brightening the streamside were an unexpected sight. As their growing site indicated, they need moist soil and a sunny spot to thrive.

As we continued our stroll around the valley we could see that there would be plenty more delights to savour in the months to come. Our local was right - there's plenty here to enjoy, whatever the time of year.