Fernley House

Set in the sun‑drenched gardens of an early‑twentieth‑century country house, the story opens as Margaret Montfort watches the summer bloom around Fernley House. With her uncle John lounging on the verandah and the laughter of cousins Basil and Susan still echoing in the rooms, she feels the house both alive and suddenly empty. The narrative captures the gentle rhythm of daily chores—stitching, smoking rings, listening to birdsong—while hinting at the deep affection Margaret holds for the children. As the season progresses, the arrival of a new guest, the senior schoolgirl Peggy, promises fresh excitement.

Margaret balances her quiet responsibilities with the lively expectations of her family, offering a glimpse into the social customs and tender bonds of the era. Through her eyes we sense the bittersweet mix of anticipation and nostalgia as beloved visitors depart and return. Listeners will be drawn into a warm, intergenerational tale where simple moments become the heart of a summer that lingers long after the last swing of a porch swing.