Devonshire delight

IT is not necessarily true that familiarity dulls the perception of excellence.

Some things would be endlessly enjoyable; such as having dinner out every evening in a five star hotel; or being able to change the car each year. Similarly, some places never lose their thrilling appeal, however many times you visit.

The Hampton Palace Flower Show is a good example; or indeed visiting the beautiful island of Madeira during the month of March. I could also add some of the fairytale castles and lush parklands found around the four provinces, and in particular the historic Lismore Castle and gardens in Co Waterford. Encapsulated within this familiar and much visited landmark are centuries of history-in art, architecture, gardening, and social fashions.