What is it about butterflies that entrances us all?  We have been going to see the butterflies in the glasshouse at RHS Wisley every February for several years and we never tire of it (neither the gardens nor the butterflies).  Yesterday was no exception.  The rain held off, which makes a change as we usually hurry Deane’s Nan, Ella , around the gardens whilst dodging drops and pretending that the English weather is simply delightful!  After warming our cockles with hot soup and fresh crusty bread at the Conservatory Cafe we arrived at the glasshouse with our spirits high.

I think what makes the Wisley butterfiles so special is how close they are, and how relaxed they seem.  Hundreds of these delicate creatures live in the tropical glasshouse from January to March each year and simply flutter around you, landing where and when they like.  They range from large showy electric blue morpho butterflies to dainty lacewings – all allowing eager eyed visitors to get up close and very personal. Even camera dullards like me can masquerade as national geographic photographers (as evidenced by this shot of a white morpho butterfly).  It is magical and mesmerising!

Over the obligatory coffee and cake, all agreed that our membership at RHS, and our frequent trips to Wisley have been a triumph.  The changing seasons in the gardens, the silly summer mazes, the sometimes soggy picnics and the refreshing of the soul have all been a joy.  Thank you RHS Wisley!