Autumn is one of my favourite times of the year - the changing leaves on the trees are just beautiful. I like to take a dog out for a walk somewhere with lots of trees - but this year it was a lamb! Billy and I returned to Castlewellan Forest Park for the first time since our visit in late April. Last time, Billy was only five weeks old and I thought that the 2.4 mile walk around the lake would be too far for his little legs, but he's much bigger now and I was sure he could handle it. We set off, having already met several people in the car park.
A view of the castle.
Beautiful early autumn leaves.
We saw this dead tree that's covered in mushrooms.
Billy was curious.
Billy was very sweet as usual.
There were frequent stops for snacks.
I just had to be patient.
It was a very dull day with drizzle showers now and again, but the sun did briefly come out to shine on these trees.
We did stop now and again to talk to people or just to take in the surroundings.
Billy saw this fern plant and had to climb up the bank to nibble it.
Finally, we reached the far end of the lake.
We made the turn and started up the other side of the lake.
There were a few puddles - Billy reminds sceptical of standing water.
That's my sweet boy!
Our reward for making it all the way around the lake? A closer view of the "castle".
And tasty grass, of course.
After this I had a coffee in the car park and then we went home. It was a great day!
