Tropic of Hampshire

Today started dry and cooler, presenting ideal conditions for a cycle ride, so we went to Hillier's Gardens, my favourite  place when I need a "pick - me - up".  We hadn't  visited for a few months, and I was fearful it would  be  parched with lots of dead or dying plants. However I was delighted to see  how verdant and colourful  it was. A stream does flow through the garden, feeding the  pond and  probably other areas, which must have proved its salvation. The main blip shows the stunning Canna lilies in the Centenary border,  the first  extra shows some of the  luxuriant vegetation around the  pond, and the second extra is of one of the many Hydrangeas which were in bloom.  
We were also pleased to "spot" a family of Spotted Flycatchers flitting about in  the  Pinetum area.  
After thoroughly exploring all the garden, now in warm sunshine, we enjoyed a delicious tea in the new Garden Restaurant before cycling home.