Stockton-on-Tees

A found a local coffee roaster whom only sells online or at markets, the closest being in Wynyard. On this picture perfect day, we headed out on our latest adventure driven by the need for good coffee!

An easy 15 minute drive south and west, we found our way to the Wynyard Hall, a privately owned 120 acre country estate.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wynyard_Park,_C….

Parking near the estate gardens, we entered the market where we were welcomed at the first booth by Claire, who volunteers with the RSPB Charity. We had a wonderful conversation about nature conservation, both locally and internationally. Moving along to paruse the many booths, we successfully found the table selling the coffee, along with fresh baked brownies! Further on we bought some local procured cheeses, vegetables, hot sauce, biltong (South African, like jerky, but not), and a couple bottles of carbonated teas.

After the market, we decided to explore the gardens.

The main brick-walled area contained the ornamental plants and fountains. In one corner a little sidedoor next to the old groundskeeper's house took us to the edibles garden and the Glasshouse. The other corner was a large gate leading out to the forest walk, passing the final resting place of the famous race horse, Habeletonian. The forest walk was magnificent as we wove under ancient trees following the waterway. There were others in the forest, but it almost felt like we had it all to ourselves 😊

After arriving back at the house, we had a late lunch, and enjoyed many of our market purchases. As the day was still young, and weather favourable, we drove to Seaton Carew Beach. Initially, we walked along the beach, then up into the dunes to a concrete structured, installed presumably, as a breakwater for the Tees estuary. We then circled back along the bridal path, that separated Seaton Commons, with sheep out to pasture, and the golf course. As we had a few minutes left on the parking payment, we chose to enjoy the sun and breeze while people watching as they attended the limited amusement rides 🎪

Once home, we made a quick beef Stir-fry, and settled in for the night.Læs mere