The Butterfly House

Noah and Nana at Ashton Memorial

It's days like these that are why I love being a stay at home mum.   At 19 months Noah is at such a great age; he's learning and accomplishing new things every day.  My time with him is now more rewarding than ever, and our days varied and exciting.  From exploring the park, to family hikes and afternoons at the train station watching the 'Choo Choo's', both he and I are eager for any new experiences.

This week, our best adventure was at Lancaster's Butterfly House.  Lancaster has a long history and we even have Roman ruins here, but architecturally speaking it's predominantly an Edwardian city.  Ashton Memorial dominates the city skyline, and at its base stands the Butterfly House.

The Butterfly House, picture courtesy of Lancaster Council

One of the many species of Butterfly to be found within the house.

Its light-filled entrance was striking, as was the humidity.  At only £3.50 per adult, we will be frequent visitors on cold or rainy days! Noah ran off excess energy along the leafy paths and even recognised the butterflies from one of his favourite books; 'The Very Hungry Caterpillar' - Though admittedly he was more fascinated with the Koi Carp!  Included in the centre is also a Mini Beast House (although these are less photogenic) and both an Avery and Mammal House.  

I've fallen in love with the high ceiling and spiral stairs, the storey high windows, the rain forest canopy and the creeping vines.  The best adventures are always those that provide a little escapism, and discovering a rainforest in the centre of a city was exactly this!  It was as though we had stepped suddenly into another world. (I don't think I'll ever outgrow my imagination!)

It was a fantastic day out, and yet another reason why I love Lancaster.

Much love,

Michelle x