Outfit Details:

Burberry Trench, Carven Sweater, Theory Dress, Hunter Boots, Fendi Bag

Thomas and I woke up early on this Saturday morning and decided to put some of our plans aside and stay in for a little longer, the brisk countryside air made us want to curl up in our cozy room even more. So by the late morning, we were itching for a little activity before our lunch plans, so we hopped on the bikes at Babington House and rode around some of the paths that they have available. We didn’t get far when the rain started, so we made our way back inside to discuss the day over mint tea and toast.

As a self professed dress lover, it’s hard for me to pinpoint my absolute favorite dress style, but I can narrow it down to a handful of ones that make up a large portion of my wardrobe. The shirtdress is at the top of that list. I was recently asked “what can you usually be found wearing?” and I answered almost immediately, “a shirtdress and Chanel ballet flats”. I always feel confident and pulled together in the simple combination, but still feminine and able to put my own unique touch on it. This black Theory one has all of the right elements – a full skirt, pockets and a fitted bodice that makes it extra flattering.

After a drizzly morning, we drove out to Rose’s parents house and were happy to arrive to some warmer weather. We had the most wonderful, relaxing afternoon walking with all of the dogs out to the orchard and down to the river, followed by a cream tea in the sunshine afterwards. Rose’s mum, the beautiful creator of Silver May, hands down makes the best scones I’ve ever had. She said the key is to never add any sugar or add-ins (like cranberries or currants), but to load them up with extra clotted cream and homemade jam right as they come out of the oven. Pure heaven!

The following day, I slipped back on the same black shirtdress for another afternoon tea, but this time over at Lucknam Park near Bath. I told Thomas that I could really get used to this 3pm tea routine (and a beautiful tea set is now high on my wish list). I might have to swap out the sweets and scones for rice cakes and fruit, but I’m still game. It was a little bit difficult to find anything to eat after 3pm out in the countryside other than having sugar and tea, so by the next day, we were hitting up the grocery store for some healthy snacks.

The 500 acres of parkland that Lucknam Park sits on has the main house/hotel, lush gardens as well as an equestrian center with 35 horses. We almost stayed here, but chose Babington House instead, but I would definitely stay here on another trip out to the countryside!