Our July event was a coach trip to RHS Garden Hyde Hall, near Chelmsford. After a trouble-free journey we arrived at Hyde Hall in time for a quick coffee, before walking around these wonderful gardens.  The weather was warm but not too hot and there were plenty of shady spots where we could sit and cool down.  The gardens were spectacular in spite of the drought conditions and the careful watering had enabled the plants to thrive and the lawn to stay emerald green whilst the surrounding countryside was brown and faded. Beautiful herbaceous borders. roses and Australian and New Zealand beds. A new addition to the gardens was a fantastic display by Thompson and Morgan – a riot of colour and scents that feasted the senses.  Two large and excellent cafes/restaurants, a well-stocked plant sales area and gift shop enabled us to rest and revive and retreat from the sun.  Another smooth return coach journey completed a thoroughly enjoyable day out.