One thing I love about the National Trust is there’s always a garden/house/common when you need one. I was recently in the Stroud area collecting a lovely little sewing machine, bought for £5 off eBay (bargain) and I stumbled across the lovely Minchinhampton and Rodborough Commons in Gloucestershire. The perfect spots to let puppy stretch his legs before the journey home.

Even in the damp drizzle you could tell that the views across the Severn Vale were pretty special. We did a short circular loop around a striking turreted building, meeting many other dog walkers and enjoying the varied landscape along the way. Commons are great places to simply meander and explore.

Later on this month and into early May, Rodborough Common (pictured above) will become a colourful carpet as the pasque flower and purple orchid, among other wild flowers, come into bloom. A good excuse to return when the sun shines.