I have never started one of these picture sites with a picture of a member of staff or volunteer, too much risk of causing problems or offence. Neither do I do much writing, enough sites do that, I just do the pictures.

However this place is one great exception and she is the reason.

The site boasts a magnificent ruin, such as English Heritage have in abundance. A delightful wooded glen, lake, weir, lovely formal gardens and views, all of which, again, EH have plenty of. It does have a spectacular fountain, which actually works and is well worth going out of your way to see and possibly the most beautiful Church attached I have ever seen, anywhere.

These all paled into insignificence when compared to this one girl, her welcoming smile and warmth radiating to the old bones of this ancient creature made the hike, soaking, yes, a very wet day, and chill more than worthwhile.

An old man is usually just someone to be processed with a touch of distain by the young. One with a Camera and tripod even worse. This was the sight I beheld after taking the wrap round picture of the frontage. It seemed that I had stepped out of reality and her warmth in the moments of the encounter made the whole place into a surreal experience which will be with me all my life.

If you can ever reach there, go, take the day, enjoy the place and if you are lucky enough to see her, pass the time of day and have your life improved.

Now give her a friendly tickle and enjoy your cyber tour.