Christchruch Botanic Gardens - a tranquail oasis in the heart of the city

I love Christchurch Botanic Gardens at all times of the day, all times of the year. Including during Autumn when the leaves are turning orange, rusty red and bruised brown and are slowly beginning to fall. There is something warm and comforting about strolling the pathways at this time listening to the crunch of dried leaves underfoot. A reminder perhaps that some of life’s greatest pleasures come from the smallest most familiar things.

During the winter months the gardens are remarkably colourful seemingly in contrast to the time of year. Magnolia and Camellia trees bloom in an abundance of colour. Their perfume scents cloud the air.

Without doubt though an early springtime morning must be the best. Just as the earth is reawakening with new prospects, blossoms bloom, buds pop, the daffodils sway and new life is created. Ducklings can be found bobbing along on the water. This is, in my opinion, the time of year to take a punt on the River Avon. The gondola rides are available all year but first thing on a Sunday morning cannot be beaten.

Top tip: book a seat on the first punt of the day - usually just before 10am. The park is blissfully quiet at this time as is the river - kayak hire doesn’t open until a little later. This enables you to sit back, relax and let yourself be punted along floating under the sweeping branches of the willow trees that grace the rivers banks.