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On our North Coast 500 trip during the summer we hoped we would have the opportunity to photograph some Red Deer – and we were very lucky to see a small herd completely by accident (after thinking they were funny looking highland cattle).
Although we didn’t see any ‘rutting’ it was well worth the visit – we spent quite some time observing two herds and the stags waiting around the edges for their chance to mate. We also stumbled into one stag which was completely camouflaged in very long grass watching the herd some distance away. You are warned at all times to stay a safe distance from the testosterone charged stags but how far is that? It is very unsettling to be fixed in the gaze of a large antlered stag! We discussed at length with a fellow photographer what we would actually do should one charge! The general consensus was to climb the nearest tree. In 50 years I’ve never been able to climb a tree so that would have been an adventure by itself! We walked for over 4 hours and probably didn’t see half of the park. At one point, we had completely lost our bearings and had to ask for directions from an equally lost couple. Luckily we had come in opposite directions so were able to advise each other on a route back to civilisation (and toilets!). It was an extremely good value day out – the courtyard area contained several small quality shops and cafes and there was a food and gift fair on. Currently Tatton have a Roald Dahl event on and as you walk around the park you bump into characters and objects from the book including the BFG and the great glass elevator. We would definitely recommend a visit – there is lots to do for everyone from walkers and wildlife enthusiasts, families and those who just want afternoon tea or an ice cream in nice surroundings. We will definitely return. It’s just a shame the park doesn’t allow early morning access for wildlife enthusiasts – we would love to be able to visit on a misty morning!
For more pictures visit our Flickr Album. For full details on visiting Tatton Park click here. V |
Life and other
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