Posts on Ian Cylkowski Photography

Watlowes Dry Valley, Yorkshire Dales, Spring

Sat, 06 Jun 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Summer’s here.

As we headed into the Spring Bank Holiday, a heatwave was approaching the British Isles. Before things got too crazy and blisteringly hot, we took the opportunity for a cooler — but still beautiful — hike in the Dales.

Barkbooth Lot, Lake District, Spring

Sat, 16 May 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Early May means one thing in my head: bluebells.

There’s a few options I know of, and have been quite fortunate to view some extraordinary bluebell displays. However, one place in particular tugs on my desire strings more than others: Barkbooth Lot.

Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Tyne & Wear, Spring

Sat, 02 May 2026 09:00:00 +0000

I have a lot of love for Newcastle.

The last time I visited the city was over a decade ago. Too long.

During our recent stay in Tynemouth we picked a more murkey weather day to take the metro inland for a jaunt around Newcastle city.

Whitburn, Tyne & Wear, Spring

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Like a mini-Pembrokeshire.

On our final day during our Easter break in Tynemouth, we decided to cross the Tyne south towards a coastline that looked rather interesting (to me) on Google Earth: Whitburn.

Tynemouth, Tyne & Wear, Spring

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 10:58:00 +0000

An Easter break on the other side of England.

Hearing that Storm Dave was on its way wreak havoc across the northwest, we did the only sensible and drive away from it.

Blackpool, Lancashire, Spring

Sun, 15 Mar 2026 16:58:00 +0000

Things are starting to feel like spring.

They day ahead was looking clear and sunny, if still cold. So we decided that a visit to Blackpool was in order. Something a little different.

Blackburn, Lancashire, Winter

Sun, 15 Feb 2026 17:56:09 +0000

Finally, blue sky!

January and February have been wet. Murk, drizzle, mist, frost have been a defining feature of this winter. But with Valentine’s Day opening up clear skies and cold temperatures, it was time to get out.

York, North Yorkshire, Winter

Sat, 31 Jan 2026 18:04:22 +0000

It’s been about 12 years since I last went to York.

That’s way too long.

A few days after our snowy hike around Brimham Rocks, Lisabet + extended family and I head east on a crisp clear day to one of England’s oldest cities: York.

Brimham Rocks, Nidderdale National Landscape, Winter

Sat, 17 Jan 2026 15:04:07 +0000

A week off after working Christmas and New Year was needed.

With Lisabet’s Aussie family in the UK for a few weeks, we all took a joint week long holiday together. Our “base” was near Summerbridge, between Harrogate and Pateley Bridge, within the Nidderdale National Landscape. This gave us good access to a wide variety of places to explore.

Coledale, Lake District, England

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 21:00:58 +0000

Time for proper winter scenery.

Happy 2026 everyone! May you have the clarity to focus on what you can control and the composure to let go of what you cannot.

Morecambe, Lancashire, Winter

Sun, 21 Dec 2025 15:31:31 +0000

December has been very wet.

To quote the UK government website, “In the first 16 days of December, England has already received 80% of the long term average (LTA) rainfall for December.”

Crina Bottom, Yorkshire Dales, Winter

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 21:00:21 +0000

It’s beginning to look a lot like winter.

Recently we’ve been bombarded with a mix of arctic blasts and torrential downpours. After a Saturday of downpours, Sunday was looking nice and clear.

Kirkstall Abbey, West Yorkshire, Autumn

Sat, 22 Nov 2025 13:40:59 +0000

It’s not often you find the ruins of an abbey near a city centre.

Upon our visit in and around the Leeds area we also became aware of a ruined abbey right next to the main A65 road that runs from Leeds to Kendal.

An Assortment, Shropshire Autumn

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 19:25:34 +0000

The remaining bits and bobs from our time in Shropshire.

One of the first places we checked out upon arriving in Shropshire was Ironbridge, famous for its namesake bridge and for being the “the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution”.

Leeds, West Yorkshire, Autumn

Sun, 09 Nov 2025 16:19:55 +0000

It’s not often we visit cities.

After our week in and around Shropshire we then booked a couple of nights away in Horsforth, in the northwestern suburbs of Leeds.

Lisabet has family history in Leeds, which fuelled part of our reason for staying, but it’s also genuinely a lovely city. And also, apparently, undergoing massive investments, improvements, and upgrades. Skyscrapers growing, streets are clean, arcades and food halls full… Leeds seems to be thriving.

Stokesay Castle, Shropshire, Autumn

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 21:37:29 +0000

The pinnacle of historical conservation.

To quote Wikipedia, “Stokesay Castle is one of the finest surviving fortified manor houses in England, situated at Stokesay in Shropshire.”

Stokesay Castle was built in the 1280s by wealthy wool merchant Laurence of Ludlow. It’s a ridiculously well-preserved medieval complex featuring a great hall with an exceptional timber roof, two stone towers, and sits within a moated enclosure. In the 1640s, the Craven family added an ornate timber-framed gatehouse and created fashionable ornamental gardens, complete with ponds and water features. The castle surrendered peacefully to Parliamentary forces in 1645 and, after periods of decay and restoration, has been in English Heritage’s care since 1986.

Shrewsbury, Shropshire, Autumn

Sat, 01 Nov 2025 19:39:13 +0000

Another gem of preserved history.

We thought Ludlow was impressive with its 500 Listed Buildings. Then we went to Shrewsbury. According to its Wikipedia, “The centre has a largely undisturbed medieval street plan and over 660 listed buildings, including several examples of timber framing from the 15th and 16th centuries.”

Long Mynd, Shropshire Hills, Autumn

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 15:17:21 +0000

A lot on offer in such a small space.

For a full nature-based day we started out at the Carding Mill Valley, probably the most well-known part of the Shropshire Hills. It is from here that you can choose any one of a myriad of hiking trails and see the sights.

Ludlow, Shropshire, Autumn

Sun, 26 Oct 2025 15:14:58 +0000

A week around somewhere completely new to us.

Regular readers of this humble blog may know that, around October time, Lisabet and I like to take a couple of weeks off to enjoy the gorgeous autumn colours somewhere beautiful.

Holker Hall, Cumbria, Autumn

Sun, 05 Oct 2025 19:56:44 +0000

Some places are just overdue a visit.

I’ve lived in Cumbria for twelve or so years now, and in all that time have never once visited the beautiful Holker Hall & Gardens.

Chollerford, Northumberland, Summer

Sun, 24 Aug 2025 21:47:59 +0000

Time for a wee break.

It’s been a busy, and sometimes eventful, summer and we needed a break.

Lisabet donned her sleuth attire and found us a few deals, one of which was here: Chollerford in Northumberland.

Crummackdale, Yorkshire Dales, Summer

Sun, 27 Jul 2025 20:09:15 +0000

Finally, time for a proper hike.

With a cooperative Saturday in the pipeline, we decided to head into the [Yorkshire Dales](/blog/tag/yorkshire dales) for a new—to us—location: the oft-overlooked valley of Crummackdale.

Duddo Five Stones, Northumberland, Summer

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 21:42:07 +0000

The Five Stones of Duddo.

First, I must apologise for the lack of updates from myself here. June and July have proven to be tumultuous months that required a lot of my time and energy.

Bamburgh, Northumberland, Summer

Sun, 29 Jun 2025 19:27:09 +0000

A trip to Northumberland is incomplete without visiting Bamburgh.

It’s easy to see why Bamburgh’s popularity has exploded in the last decade. It’s historical and beautiful. There’s not many places in the UK where a huge castle stands tall and proud over a vast beautiful beach.

Dryburgh Abbey, Dryburgh, Scottish Borders, Summer

Sat, 21 Jun 2025 19:33:14 +0000

There are a lot of ruined abbeys in the Scottish Borders.

I’ve been to Melrose Abbey before but this time, during our stay in Northumberland for Lisabet’s birthday, we nipped over the border again to St. Boswells, in the Scottish Borders.

Rumbling Kern, Howick, Northumberland, Summer

Sun, 08 Jun 2025 12:29:58 +0000

This was probably the find of the week.

There’s plenty of the Northumberland coast we’ve explored before in various conditions, but one area we hadn’t been to was a relatively overlooked section of the coast near Howick.

Cheswick Sands, Northumberland, Spring

Sun, 01 Jun 2025 15:25:00 +0000

We’ve just come back from a beautiful week in Northumberland.

My wonderful Lisabet turned 50 and what better way to celebrate than by holidaying around the gorgeous coast and countryside of Northumberland?

Jervaulx Abbey, Nidderdale National Landscape, North Yorkshire, Spring

Wed, 14 May 2025 20:42:06 +0000

I’ve been meaning to visit here for years.

Right on the eastern fringes of the Yorkshire Dales, just peeking over into the Nidderdale National Landscape, you can find the ruins of Jervaulx Abbey.

Southern Uplands, Dumfriesshire, Scotland, Spring

Sun, 27 Apr 2025 13:21:28 +0000

Happy birthday to me.

On Friday 25th I celebrated 42 years on this planet, subsequently becoming the answer to Life, the Universe, and Everything.

How to celebrate reaching an age I’d never thought I’d make? Well, off to Scotland of course!

Fife Ness, East Neuk of Fife, Scotland, Winter

Sat, 15 Mar 2025 20:45:54 +0000

The last lot of photos from our week around the East Neuk of Fife.

And for this hike we decided on the easternmost point of East Neuk, Fife Ness. One the main reasons to explore this area was to check out Constantine’s Cave. It’s a natural sea cave found in the north face of a rocky cliff face at Fife Ness. The cave was first excavated in the early 1900s and found to contain evidence of a long occupation, from the pre-historic period into the 1800s.

The V&A Design Museum, Dundee, Scotland, Winter

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 21:14:52 +0000

It wasn’t entirely perfect weather during our week off.

On the rainier, blustery days we crossed East Neuk north over the Firth of Tay to Scotland’s 4th biggest city, Dundee.

St Andrews, Fife, Scotland, Winter

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 20:15:48 +0000

There’s a lot of history in Fife.

Aside from the glorious coastline available along the Fife Coastal Path, there’s an awful lot of history in the area too. In particular Fife is home to the town of St Andrews, home to the third oldest university in the English-speaking world (founded in 1413 CE) and also the “home of golf”.

Pittenweem & St. Monan’s, East Neuk of Fife, Scotland, Winter

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 22:06:29 +0000

From Anstruther, this time we went southwest.

After a brilliant day taking the Fife Coastal Path northeast to Crail, this time we ventured the opposite direction southwest to Pittenweem then St. Monans.

Anstruther & Crail, East Neuk of Fife, Scotland, Winter

Sun, 02 Mar 2025 18:05:48 +0000

I’ve just come back from a glorious week around the East Neuk of Fife.

East Neuk is a little peninsula on the east coast of Scotland, north of the Firth or Forth and south of the Firth of Tay. There’s lots of arable farming here and the coastline is dotted with beautiful old fishing villages.

Preston, Lancashire, Winter

Sun, 16 Feb 2025 23:50:09 +0000

Time for something a little different.

For those relatively new to this blog, before moving to Cumbria I lived in Preston for many happy years. It offers excellent transport links, easy access to local countryside, a vibrant city centre, a world-class university and more.

Southerscales Scar & Douk Cave Pasture, Yorkshire Dales, Winter

Sun, 02 Feb 2025 12:43:24 +0000

January has been freezing and storm-ridden.

It’s a month not many are fans of, as it seems to drag on endlessly. But, hark!, February has arrived, and a bright Saturday revealed itself to us. Where to go?

Castlerigg, Lake District, Winter

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 12:56:38 +0000

Finally, some proper snow.

After taking on an icy hike around the Tilberthwaite/Little Langdale area, temperatures in England continued to plummet and snow arrived. As usual, it didn’t take long for stories to arrive, such as people hiking snowy fells up to their waist and getting lost, and people ignoring road closure signs and getting stuck driving on mountain passes.

Tilberthwaite & Little Langdale, Lake District, Winter

Sat, 04 Jan 2025 16:10:37 +0000

A belated Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all.

I haven’t made a post on here since the 8th November, 2024. I can only apologise. Not long after we returned from Scotland, the weather in the Northwest of England became abysmal. Near-constant murk and drizzle, punctuated by the occasional storm, have left little opportunity for a nice outing, never mind having decent light to shoot.

Kilchurn Castle & Taynuilt, Argyll & Bute, Scotland, Autumn

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 20:32:25 +0000

Getting to know the local area better.

On this particular day we had prepared a contrasting variety of places to visit: Castle ruins, the inside of a mountain, and the village we were staying in.

Clapham, Yorkshire Dales, Autumn

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 20:06:54 +0000

The last of this year’s autumn in the Dales.

Time for a little break from my recent Scottish photography escapades.

Although the Met Office were reporting a high pressure system moving over the British Isles, what that resulted in was windless, murky, and overcast conditions. As a result, I knew the light would be super soft, and there wouldn’t be any views from fell tops.

Bonawe Iron Furnace & Glen Orchy, Argyll & Bute, Scotland, Autumn

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 09:45:03 +0000

Turns out there’s a link between Cumbria and this part of the Highlands.

A good walk from our stay in Taynuilt, one can find the grounds and buildings of the Bonawe Iron Furnace. It was built in 1753 with goal of producing “pig iron”, that is, crude iron, often used to help make steel. The company that built the iron furnace here on the southern shore of Loch Etive were from Cumbria, and chose this location as there plenty of wood around to produce charcoal, which was how the blast furnace would be fuelled.

Benderloch & Sutherland Grove, Argyll & Bute, Scotland, Autumn

Fri, 18 Oct 2024 18:20:05 +0000

Time for some new places to explore.

It’s easy to get overwhelmed with options for hiking and exploration when you’re in the Highlands, especially if you’re near Glencoe. But we did resolve to try and check out some new, to us, places.

Rannoch Moor & Glencoe, Autumn, Scotland

Sun, 13 Oct 2024 11:07:28 +0000

The pull of Glencoe is impossible to resist.

Even though we were staying much further southwest of Glencoe, the allure of its epic mountains is too much.

But this time, we wanted to try things a little different. Most folk head to Glencoe from the south, and pass through the vast boggy expanse of Rannoch Moor. There is, however, much to commend of Rannoch Moor; in particular two loch systems: Lochan na h-Achlaise, and Loch Bà. Both are tricky to explore and navigate, due to the boggy conditions underfoot, but we nevertheless made an attempt of it, having more success with Loch Bà than Lochan na h-Achlaise.

St. Conan’s Kirk, Argyll & Bute, Scotland, Autumn

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 21:50:26 +0000

We’re back from a week in the best place on earth: the Scottish Highlands.

It is all too easy, once in the Highlands, to begin your break by heading straight into the mountains. However, on this occasion, we started our break by checking out a historical and architectural curiosity: St. Conan’s Kirk.

Bishop Auckland, County Durham, Autumn

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 09:19:50 +0000

Time to explore what we missed out on last time.

Just under a year ago we visited historical Bishop Auckland and had a lovely time checking out the amazing Faith Museum and Auckland Tower.

Cenarth Falls, Ceredigion, Wales, Summer

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 15:01:59 +0000

Something a little different to finish this break.

Moving away from cliffs and beaches, this final post—though small—features a small trail around Cenarth Falls, which defines the border between Ceredigion and Carmarthenshire.

New Quay, Ceredigion, Wales, Summer

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 14:03:13 +0000

Sometimes you just have to be a bit of a tourist.

On a particularly lush day, we moved away from clifftop trekking and head to the beautiful little town of New Quay, Welsh name Cei Newydd.

Llangrannog & Ynys Lochtyn, Cardigan, Wales, Summer

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 13:39:55 +0000

The coast that time forgot.

Towards the end of our week around the Cardigan Bay coastline, we plotted a final clifftop trail. Starting at beautiful Llangrannog, up the coast from Aberporth and Tresaith, we would fuel up then follow the Ceredigion Coast Path northeast up onto the cliff tops and around the perilous shoulder of Pendinaslochdyn. Then we could drop back down to explore the peninsula of Ynys Lochtyn.

Ceibwr Bay & Pwll y Wrach, Pembrokeshire, Wales, Summer

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 22:32:14 +0000

Heading for the Witches Cauldron.

Following the more moodier day around Aberporth and Tresaith, our planned hike to Ceibwr Bay and Pwll y Wrach beyond looked promising.

Ceibwr Bay (pronounced KYE-boorr) forms part of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. It’s known for its amazing cliff folds, a result of glaciation during the last Ice Age as well as the Ceibwr Bay Fault. We started our hike from further up the valley at Moylgrove, navigating the wooded valley down to the open bay. After gawping at the bay and snapping probably too many photos, we followed the trail up the cliffs along the western side of the bay. Our goal, ultimately, was to visit Pwll y Wrach, known as the “Witches Cauldron”, a collapsed cave.

Aberport & Tresaith, Ceredigion, Wales, Summer

Sun, 01 Sep 2024 16:46:34 +0000

Where better to enjoy the last of summer than on the Welsh coast?

We’ve been to a fair bit of Wales, including Snowdonia, Bannau Brycheiniog, Anglesey, and Pembrokeshire. However, there’s a good chunk of “Mid Wales” that we haven’t touched, especially the coastline around the Cardigan Bay. This was the destination of our recent one week stay.

Ribblesdale, Yorkshire Dales, Summer

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 16:30:13 +0000

It finally feels a bit more like summer.

After one of the wettest summers I can remember, a bright weekend was looking up. Both feeling the need to soak up some VitD and get some miles in, we made our way once again into the Yorkshire Dales. It’d been a while since we visited the beautiful Ribblesdale area around Stainforth so we plotted a good 10km circular, taking in Catrigg Force, the Winskill Stones Nature Reserve, and Langcliffe.

Aysgill Force, Wensleydale, Yorkshire Dales, Summer

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 10:12:23 +0000

It finally got me.

Four years since the COVID-19 Pandemic, I got the disease.

Thankfully—in a way—as a Type-2 Diabetic, I’ve had more COVID vaccines and boosters than your average person. As a result, my symptoms were minor and I came out the other side unscathed. My other half, unfortunately, had a worse time with it.

Crook o’ Lune, Lancashire, Summer

Sun, 07 Jul 2024 11:50:29 +0000

Lancashire has little treasures of its own.

Thinking away from the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District, we decided instead to explore more quiet parts that the Lancashire countryside has to offer. Situated on the north-western edge of the Forest of Bowland, within the Lune Valley—and not too far from Lancaster—one can find the Crook o’ Lune area.

Kirkby Lonsdale, Cumbria, Summer

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 21:38:04 +0000

In most seasons, Kirkby Lonsdale is lovely.

But during summer, it’s impossibly pretty.

The last couple of weeks my focus has primarily been helping the Better Half recuperate after double Carpal Tunnel Relief surgery, hence the lack of content on this website. But, with the removal of stitches on the horizon, a gorgeous weekend was looking promising, so we made our way to beautiful Kirkby Lonsdale for a gentle walk around the town and its environs.

Conistone, Yorkshire Dales, Summer

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 20:34:21 +0000

Time for somewhere new.

The weekend was looking massively busy in Cumbria, what with the Appleby Horse Fair, Dave Day, and the Great North Swim, amongst other things. So with a cool and windy Saturday in stall, we head east once again into the Yorkshire Dales to explore somewhere new, to us: Conistone.

Sedbergh, Yorkshire Dales, Summer

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 09:03:40 +0000

It’s summer! Y’know what that means? Wild flower meadows.

We’re rather fortunate to live where we do, sandwiched between abundant nature. You can take your pick of beautiful places to see wildflower summer meadows. A particular favourite is Swaledale in the Yorkshire Dales.

The Northern Reaches of Lancaster Canal, Cumbria, Spring

Tue, 28 May 2024 18:32:08 +0000

A wet Bank Holiday weekend finally gave way to a glorious evening.

With little time off left, we decided on familiar jaunt that nevertheless is always a pleasure to do: Lancaster Canal’s Northern Reaches.

Oxenber & Wharfe Woods, Yorkshire Dales, Spring

Mon, 20 May 2024 11:17:10 +0000

It’s been nearly a month since my last post.

I must apologise for that. Times, they are a’ changin'.

To start, we moved house! That in itself has consumed most of my time and energy, as house moves usually do. Thankfully we’re now all settled in and getting down to the important things in life, like looking at curtain textiles and measuring all the things.

Feizor, Yorkshire Dales, Spring

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 14:54:08 +0000

I don’t explore the Yorkshire Dales enough.

After finally getting over my post-Skye mourning and depression period, it seemed like spring finally arrived in Northern England.

Aware of how busy the [Lake District](/blog/tag/lake district) would be, we instead ventured east to the [Yorkshire Dales](/blog/tag/yorkshire dales). We quickly realised that we hadn’t explored the Feizor area of the Dales in a long time, like maybe 7-years or so. Time to fix that.

Trotternish Peninsula, Isle of Skye, Scotland, Spring

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 13:25:33 +0000

The last series of photos from our Skye spring 2024 trip.

There’s a part of me that doesn’t want to post these, because it concludes in a way that we’re no longer on Skye.

Oronsay, Isle of Skye, Scotland, Spring

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 15:31:57 +0000

We’ve only been to the tiny isle of Oronsay once before.

This was back in autumn 2020, before the 2nd pandemic lockdown happened.

Conditions on that occasion were cloudy, flat, and grey. But still, the scenery and views were stunning and we vowed to return again.

Portree, Isle of Skye, Scotland, Spring

Sat, 23 Mar 2024 14:46:08 +0000

For our 1st full day in Skye, we gradually eased ourselves in.

Driving 7–8 hours can take it out of you.

So, with pleasing light conditions, we aimed straight for arguably the island’s main settlement, Portree. There’s a fairly well-known hike one can do from Portree, known as the Scorrybreac circuit. You head northeast out of town, take the coastal path below the cliffs of Ben Chracaig, navigate around the corner at Sgeir Mhòe, and follow the coastline towards Toravaig, with magnificent views down the Sound of Raasay and the cliffs of Sìthean a’ Bhealaich Chumhaing. Then it’s a question of hiking up the sharp ascent to Ben Chracaig and onto the path and road back down to Portree.

Staffin, Isle of Skye, Scotland, Spring

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 19:11:28 +0000

The sheer variety along Skye’s coastline is ridiculous.

Basalt columnar cliffs? Billion-year old boulders? White sand? Knife-edge sea stacks? Waterfalls? Sea caves? Skye’s got it all.

And—at An Corran, Staffin—there is the “Jurassic coast”.

The Quiraing, Isle of Skye, Scotland, Spring

Sat, 16 Mar 2024 23:52:00 +0000

It’s so hard to ignore the Quiraing when you’re on Skye.

Comprising the northernmost aspect of the Trotternish peninsula landslip, the Quiraing is a true marvel. It features sheer cliffs 150 m tall, emotive and otherworldly geological formations such as the Prison, the Needle, and Table, as well as individual peaks formed from ancient landslips such as Cleat and Bioda Buidhe.

Sleat Peninsula, Isle of Skye, Scotland, Spring

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 11:11:39 +0000

Skye’s Sleat peninsula often gets overlooked.

It’s understandable why. When the island contains wonders such as the Cuillins, the Quiraing, the Storr, the Fairy Pools and more, why would you go to the extreme south/south-west of the island?

Sligachan, Isle of Skye, Scotland, Spring

Sun, 10 Mar 2024 16:51:40 +0000

I have returned from my fifth visit to Skye.

God damn I love that island so much.

What definitely helps, apart from the fantastic scenery, is that for entire week of our stay the weather and light conditions were fantastic.

Under Loughrigg, Lake District, Winter

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 20:15:21 +0000

A brief respite amongst all the rain.

Despite the weather, this week has been as busy as ever. A large part of that is simply that it’s half-term for schools. Still, we figured people would be starting to head back home, so the Lake District wouldn’t be as busy.

Hull Pot, Yorkshire Dales, Winter

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 21:24:43 +0000

A month since my last post.

I do apologise.

The weather in January has been, well, shocking to say the least. We endured three named storms: Henk, Isha, and Jocelyn. Isha, in particular, was one of the most powerful storms the British Isles have seen since 2000.

Grasmere, Lake District, Winter

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 15:46:54 +0000

The winter lurgy has struck.

Following a lovely hike around Ambleside, Lisabet came down with a rather nasty cold and I followed suit soon after.

We’re both at the tail end of this bug now, but with depleted energy levels as can be expected. A crisp, clear, and super cold Sunday greeted us, so we set off towards the impossibly bonny village of Grasmere for a wee waltz around the area.

Ambleside, Lake District, Winter

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 16:37:47 +0000

Temperatures have plunged.

The nigh persistent rain of November and December has given way to a sub-zero climate and clearer conditions. Much better.

With a bright Saturday forecast, Lisabet and I ventured into the heart of the Lake District and major tourist hotspot, Ambleside. We wanted to do two walks: one, a small circular of Stock Ghyll Force, the other bigger hike up to High Sweden Bridge.

Grisedale, Lake District, Winter

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 13:30:38 +0000

Happy New Year, everyone! Here’s to a more peaceful and gentle 2024.

Though I’ve enjoyed time off work between Christmas and New Year, it’s not exactly been pleasant. Storm Gerrit washed across the UK, rendering most days miserably wet. There were even tornado warnings, largely unheard of in the UK.

Ulverston, Cumbria, Winter

Tue, 26 Dec 2023 20:56:08 +0000

It’s been a while since my last post.

Apologies.

I hope every one has had a nice and/or peaceful Christmas.

Following the arctic blast at the beginning of December, the UK has been wet. Two storms washed over the British Isles—Elin and Fergus—bringing with them intense winds and lots of rain.

Kendal, Cumbria, Winter

Sun, 03 Dec 2023 14:40:56 +0000

Winter has arrived rather abruptly.

After a week of near- and sub-zero temperatures, the weekend arrived and the snow fell. In Kendal, conditions didn’t seem too bad so we decided to hop int’ car and head into the Lake District proper for some lovely snowy mountain photography.

Durham, County Durham, Autumn

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 20:08:04 +0000

My first time in Durham.

On the day of our anniversary proper, we woke up nice and early for a full day exploring the historical city of Durham.

I’d never visited the city before. Durham didn’t let me down. The day was bright and clear, bouncing golden light off Durham’s architecture, both modern and ancient.

Haddon Hall, Derbyshire, Autumn

Sat, 18 Nov 2023 16:28:18 +0000

Towards the end of Peak District foray, we decided it was time for something more historical.

Lisabet had zeroed in on a grand building near Bakewell known as Haddon Hall. It has been described as “the most complete and most interesting house of its period”. The origins of the hall are from the 11th century, with additions at various stages between the 13th and the 17th centuries, latterly in the Tudor style. Due to the building becoming uninhabited for two centuries until the 1900s, a lot of its tudor and medieval heritage has survived the modernisation of the Georgian and Victorian periods.

Buxton, High Peak, Derbyshire

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 18:40:56 +0000

Buxton. Spas. Spring water.

A certainty on our itinerary when holidaying in the Peak District was to explore the historical spa town of Buxton.

Though almost slap-bang in the middle of the Peak District, Buxton isn’t actually in the National Park. Look…

Sheffield, South Yorkshire, Autumn

Sat, 28 Oct 2023 15:16:01 +0000

I don’t visit cities enough.

And with staying in the Peak District, we found an opportunity to get on the (extremely busy) train for a day out in Sheffield.

I’d never been to Sheffield before.

Stanage Edge, Peak District, Autumn

Sat, 21 Oct 2023 12:02:08 +0000

Perhaps the Peak District’s most famous edge.

Froggatt Edge and Curbar Edge were epic enough. But further north, above the bonny village of Hathersage, one can find the massive 3.5-mile long Stanage Edge, which peaks at High Neb 458 m (1,503 ft).

Dovedale, Peak District, Autumn

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 17:58:47 +0000

From the Dark Peak to the White.

In my last post, I talked about how the Peak District can be broadly split into two areas: the Dark Peak and White Peak. They reflect the predominant underlying geology: gritstone for the Dark Peak, and limestone for the White Peak.

Froggatt and Curbar Edges, Peak District, Autumn

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 15:31:36 +0000

If there’s one thing that the Peak District has a lot of, it’s Edges.

The Peak District can roughly be divided into two areas: the White Peak, and the Dark Peak. The naming is based on the underlying geology: the White Park is limestone, and the Dark Peak is gritstone.

Winnats Pass & Mam Tor, Peak District, Autumn

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 15:48:08 +0000

Time to revisit more familiar areas.

Last time we attempted to explore Winnats Pass and Mam Tor was way back in May 2015. Back then I was considerably heavier and unfit. Since then I’ve lost a lot of weight and gained fitness. It would be interesting to see how I would fare tackling these locations compared to last time.

The Roaches & Lud’s Church, Peak District, Autumn

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 14:24:18 +0000

We’re in the Peak District for a fortnight!

The last time we explored the Peak District was way back in May 2015. Even then, it was only for a long weekend.

Grassington, Yorkshire Dales, Autumn

Sun, 01 Oct 2023 11:03:44 +0000

Autumn is coming.

Knowing that yet more rain was on its way in the afternoon, and that our best chances were further east, we elected to head into the Yorkshire Dales. Here we embarked on a nice 10 km hike, taking in the epic Linton Falls, timeless Grassington, and Grass Wood Nature Reserve.

Appleby-in-Westmorland, Cumbria, Autumn

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 18:18:17 +0000

Here’s something a little different.

Every September volunteers for Heritage Open Days organise events and open up usually private buildings to celebrate the culture and heritage of England. Best of all, all of these events and visit are free.

Colwith Force, Lake District, Autumn

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 18:32:52 +0000

The last of the summer holidays.

After a lovely Friday evening in Dentdale, and a glorious Saturday in Kingsdale, we returned to the Lake District on Sunday for a hike to Colwith Force and back.

Kingsdale, Yorkshire Dales, Autumn

Mon, 04 Sep 2023 20:34:50 +0000

Flexibility can lead to great things.

We started a promising Saturday morning with a plan to hike up the highest peak in the Yorkshire Dales: Whernside (736 m/2,415 ft).

It would definitely be the highest peak we’ve ever ascended but we were planning to “cheat” a little bit. Below Whernside’s western flank is a valley called Kingsdale. There’s a road that runs from the south, near Ingleton, through and over Kingsdale before dropping back down into Dentdale. This road enjoys a few large passing places, one of which is near the summit of the road at 468 m a.s.l. In theory, we could park at the passing place and hike the minor trail up Whernside’s western flank to reach the summit, with only 300 m of actual ascent needed.

Dent, Yorkshire Dales, Autumn

Sat, 02 Sep 2023 20:43:23 +0000

Time to revisit an old friend.

With fairer conditions promised, we head out as soon as I finished work on Friday evening. We’d managed to book a table at the Meadowside Cafe in Dent, but beforehand we wanted to get reacquainted with this magical valley.

Hawes, Yorkshire Dales, Summer

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 19:17:14 +0000

A Bank Holiday Monday meant a day out with me Dad.

After heading down to Kendal to meet me we decided to let his new car “stretch its legs”, so head east into the Yorkshire Dales. A wander around Hawes and the beautiful Upper Wensleydale was in order.

Clougha Pike, Forest of Bowland, Lancashire, Summer

Sun, 20 Aug 2023 15:56:50 +0000

The last few weeks have been… tough.

Not long after our hike to and around Stockghyll Force, I managed to acquire some form of vertigo for a few days, which was decidedly unpleasant. The following week, my lovely Lisabet came down with a rather nasty summer cold, and I managed to fall down the stairs, spraining my wrist and severely bruising my butt. Then the week after, I caught Lisabet’s cold.

Stockghyll, Lake District, Summer

Sat, 29 Jul 2023 20:28:14 +0000

Loads of rain means one thing: waterfalls.

Though certainly not as numerous or epic as in the Yorkshire Dales, the Lake District is still home to some lovely waterfalls.

Certainly one of the more accessible, yet grand, waterfalls is Stockghyll Force in Ambleside. We last hiked around here in June 2020, just as the UK’s COVID-19 lockdown was starting to ease off. Ambleside, usually one of the busiest honeypots in all the Lake District, was eerily quiet on that visit.

Hayeswater, Lake District, Summer

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 18:05:40 +0000

Here’s one we’ve not been to in quite some time.

After June’s dry conditions and soaring temperatures, July has been unseasonably cool, stormy, and wet.

A succession of wet weekends exhausted our patience, so Lisabet and I braved the Sunday and head into the Lake District.

Morecambe & Heysham, Lancashire, Summer

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 18:35:07 +0000

After a thunderstorm, you need to get those vast and expansive views.

On the Saturday, the Met Office issued a Yellow Warning of thunderstorms and torrential downpours. This was very much needed as temperatures were starting to creep up to the mid 20’s again with 90%+ humidity.

Marsden, West Yorkshire, Summer

Tue, 04 Jul 2023 18:33:41 +0000

Time for somewhere a little different.

We’re as guilty as anyone of succumbing to the familiar. Conscious of this, Lisabet and I booked a long weekend somewhere we’d never explored before: the moors of West Yorkshire.

Arnside, Cumbria, Summer

Fri, 23 Jun 2023 18:21:48 +0000

I hope everyone had a lovely Summer Solstice.

When it comes to nature and the Summer Solstice, Lisabet and I are fortunate to have a variety of options on our doorstep. With a clear and cloudless evening ahead we decided on the expansive views offered at Arnside.

Longridge Fell, Lancashire, Summer

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 20:33:55 +0000

Being in nature with your best bud is one of life’s greatest treasures.

I recently had the privilege of heading Down South (and by Down South, I mean, Preston) to spend a weekend with my best mate, Fie. With the prospect of a gloriously sunny British summer’s day ahead, we decided on a wee little excursion up Longridge Fell, east of Preston.

Tarn Hows, Lake District, Summer

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 20:15:44 +0000

Summer is upon us.

It’s been a month without any rain, and the temperatures are now consistently in the late teens/early 20s. Rivers and lakes are starting to dry up.

Barkbooth Lot, Cumbria, Spring

Mon, 29 May 2023 13:54:10 +0000

It was time to capture the last of this year’s bluebells.

We’re fortunate in Cumbria to have quite a few options when it comes to photographing glorious bluebell displays. On this occasion we decided to revisit a local favourite that also—coincidentally—tends to be quiet: Barkbooth Lot.

Crina Bottom, Yorkshire Dales, Spring

Tue, 23 May 2023 19:58:16 +0000

After returning from North Wales, but before returning to work, Lisabet and I decided on a wee spring jaunt up to Crina Bottom.

Crina Bottom is a 400-year old farmstead situated above Ingleton and below the peak of Ingleborough. The route to summit Ingleborough from Ingleton via Crina Bottom is one of the most popular trails to top this famous peak. As such, it’s nicely paved all the way, allowing for easy hiking as the views become increasingly gorgeous.

Holy Island/Ynys Gybi, Anglesey, North Wales, Spring

Sun, 14 May 2023 15:39:41 +0000

After getting some delicious mountain action, it was time to head back to the coast.

Anglesey is the largest island in Wales, and the 7th largest in Britain, separated from the North Wales by the narrow Menai Strait.

Ogwen Valley, Snowdonia, North Wales, Spring

Wed, 03 May 2023 21:44:45 +0000

The morning of my 40th birthday.

We got up before the sun, devoured breakfast, and head straight into the heart of Yr Eryri for one of my favourite areas in the whole of North Wales: the Ogwen Valley.

Ynys Llanddwyn, Anglesey, North Wales, Spring

Sun, 30 Apr 2023 14:59:38 +0000

Newborough beach and Ynys Llanddwyn is a magical place.

Located at the southern corner of Anglesey island (Ynys Môn), Newborough comprises of 2,000 acres of Corsican pine woodland, planted between 1947 and 1965 to stabilise the shifting sand dunes of Newborough Warren. Emerging from the forest, you enter the expansive sands of Newborough beach with crystal clear views across the Menai Strait to the Snowdonia/Yr Eryri mountains.

Aber Falls, Snowdonia, Spring

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 15:01:12 +0000

Much like South Wales, North Wales and Snowdonia has its fair share of waterfalls.

One such waterfall we’ve never visited before, and was relatively close to where we’re staying for the week, is Aber Falls, just south of the village of Abergwyngregyn.

Conwy, North Wales, Spring

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 20:25:33 +0000

Conwy is a historical treasure trove.

Situated above the river of the same name, Conwy is a walled town with most of those structures surviving to the present day. The town is perhaps best known for its castle, which was built along with the walls in the late 13th century.

Ingleton Falls, Yorkshire Dales, Spring

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 20:34:36 +0000

My first set of images made with my new Sony a7II.

A wee bit of backstory is needed.

My 40th birthday is fast approaching (if you’re at all curious, it’s on the 25th April). That’s right, the Big Four Oh.

Rydal Water, Lake District, Spring

Sat, 15 Apr 2023 17:09:32 +0000

The Lake District is known for many things.

Its lakes, of course. The fells. All the valleys. But also William Wordsworth, who was born in Cockermouth and called the Lake District home for much of his life. It was in the Lake District, wandering along the shores of Ullswater, that Wordsworth took inspiration from the plethora of daffodils along the lake’s shoreline, which ultimately resulted in his most famous poem, “I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud”.

Barnard Castle, County Durham, Spring

Sat, 08 Apr 2023 20:38:35 +0000

Apologies for the delay since my last post.

Things have been on the change again, personally. Also, this last week I’ve endured a rather nasty stomach bug. The less said about that the better.

Stanley Ghyll Force, Lake District, Spring

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 22:38:43 +0000

After a sobering return from a beautiful week in the Highlands, it was time for a beautiful little jaunt in Eskdale.

I was also due to hang out with me Dad again. After arriving at Dad’s, he suggested checking out Stanley Ghyll Force, one of the Lake District’s largest waterfalls. I were game for that!

Kinlochleven, Lochaber, Scotland, Winter

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 21:15:10 +0000

Where to go on the final day of our week long Scottish Highlands getaway?

We had a few options, but ultimately settled on an area we’d only visited once, the very first time we explored Glencoe in Autumn 2014: Kinlochleven.

Glenfinnan, Lochaber, Scotland, Winter

Sun, 05 Mar 2023 17:22:49 +0000

We were exceptionally fortunate with the Scottish Highland weather.

Although conditions were consistently near the freezing point, we enjoyed days of clear light and skies. The only day that wasn’t the case was when we hiked around Glenfinnan.

Oban, Argyll & Bute, Scotland, Winter

Sat, 04 Mar 2023 18:49:01 +0000

We’ve only ever been to Oban once before.

This was way back in Autumn 2014, when we first went into the Highlands of Scotland. On a particularly murky, misty, and wet day we drove away from the mountains and instead went to check out the nearest major town: Oban.

Glencoe Lochan & Glen Etive, Scotland, Winter

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 17:53:51 +0000

Somewhere new and somewhere old.

The draw of Glen Etive is always strong, especially with those world-famous views towards Buachaille Etive Mòr. But before we revisited what is quickly becoming known as the “Skyfall valley”, we wanted to check out somewhere new (to us).

Glen Nevis, Lochaber, Scotland, Winter

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 17:36:18 +0000

The grandest valley beneath the tallest mountain.

The last time we visited Glen Nevis was way back in Autumn 2014, which was our very first time in the Glencoe/Lochaber area. This was in the prime of my HDR days.

The Lost Valley, Glencoe, Scotland, Winter

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 21:10:02 +0000

After nearly a decade, it’s time to tick this one off the bucket list.

Early on in my photography journey—almost immediately after I learned about the wonders of Glencoe—I discovered and read about a “secret” valley above the main Glencoe valley itself.

New Lanark & the Falls of Clyde, Scotland, Winter

Sun, 26 Feb 2023 16:19:38 +0000

We’re back in the Highlands for a week!

On the way up from Cumbria, we stopped off roughly halfway through to check out a place we’ve been meaning to visit for ages: New Lanark and the Falls of Clyde.

Pendragon & Lammerside Castles, Mallerstang, Yorkshire Dales, Winter

Sun, 12 Feb 2023 21:46:16 +0000

If the weather’s not going to improve, time to go somewhere that suits it.

Regular readers of this site may know that Mallerstang, technically part of the Yorkshire Dales, is one of my favourite places in Cumbria. Typically my hikes in the valley explore the region south of Wild Boar Fell. However towards the northern part of the valley, as it starts to flatten out, one can find a historical gem: Pendragon Castle.

Blelham Tarn, Lake District, Winter

Sat, 28 Jan 2023 22:49:16 +0000

Time for somewhere new (to us).

In all my time of living in Cumbria and visiting the Lake District, I’ve never set foot near one of the Lake District’s most popular attractions: Wray Castle.

Reston Scar, Lake District, Winter

Tue, 24 Jan 2023 20:37:40 +0000

After the recent freeze, winter fog has descended over the land.

It’s been soupy thick and still, gently drenching everything and chilling bodies down to the bone.

Over the weekend, the outdoors called us—as always—and so we tried somewhere a little different. Above the village of Staveley, which also serves as the entrance to Kentmere, a small yet imposing fell dominates the skyline: Reston Scar. It may only be 834 feet (254 m) in height, but it’s relative isolation allows for cracking views…

Orrest Head, Lake District, Winter

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 21:38:53 +0000

Arctic conditions have returned.

After what’s seemed like an endless amount of rain, a dry and cold front has arrived over the British Isles, covering the fells in frost and snow.

Stenkrith Park, Cumbria, Winter

Sat, 07 Jan 2023 22:31:41 +0000

By the gods, there has been a lot of rain.

It’s made getting out for some winter hiking difficult, if not impossible. In decades past, the Lake District was more known for a lurking misty drizzle that saturated everything. With climate change ever more present, these days rain in Cumbria crashes down in sheets of massive downpours, overwhelming infrastructure and rivers alike.

Sedbergh, New Year's Day, Cumbria, Winter

Sun, 01 Jan 2023 21:09:54 +0000

Happy New Year everyone!

I hope you all had a merry time with those you love (which can also just be yourself). What are your goals for 2023? Let’s hope this year’s a little more… boring, shall we say?

Kirkby Lonsdale, Cumbria, Winter

Tue, 27 Dec 2022 13:45:02 +0000

Merry Christmas everyone!

I hope you all find peace and rest this holiday season.

We had our usual quiet affair for Christmas. Dad came over to stay with us, and we all enjoyed a fantastic Christmas dinner that my lovely Lisabet put together. But, to the eternal question: what to do on Boxing Day? Apart from stuff ourselves silly with Christmas Day Leftover Sandwiches, of course…

Lingmoor Fell, Lake District, Winter

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 20:29:25 +0000

I’ve been wanting to get into the snowy mountains for a while.

As I’d accrued a fairly significant amount of flexi-time at work, I used it to take a mid-week day off and headed into Lake District.

Cunswick Scar, Cumbria, Winter

Sun, 11 Dec 2022 21:34:06 +0000

The first snow of the season has arrived.

Fortunately—living where I do—there are plenty of quick routes one can take from the town centre to ascend some nearby hills and check out the expansive wintery views.

Clapham & Trow Gill, Yorkshire Dales, Winter

Sun, 04 Dec 2022 17:59:18 +0000

The seasons progress and the weather is changing.

After a month of near-constant rain interspersed with heavy fog, a high-pressure system is moving in and bringing with it clearer skies and lower temperatures.

Talkin Tarn Country Park, Cumbria, Autumn

Tue, 29 Nov 2022 19:21:55 +0000

It was me Dad’s birthday at the weekend!

To celebrate, we all enjoyed a lovely wander around Talkin Tarn, east of Carlisle, before treating Dad to lunch.

The last time we were at Talkin Tarn was around November 2017. I only remember this because I had just bought a Sigma dp0 Quattro, and this walk was my first opportunity to put it through its paces. This was also back in my tripod days.

Hodbarrow Nature Reserve, Cumbria, Autumn

Sat, 19 Nov 2022 20:18:46 +0000

Time for somewhere a little different.

For a little while now we’ve had our peripheral vision on a little-known nature reserve in southwest Cumbria: Hodbarrow Nature Reserve.

Today was the day to visit and explore it.

Eggerslack Wood & Hampsfell, Cumbria, Autumn

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 19:36:18 +0000

The weekend arrived and it finally stopped raining.

To celebrate, Lisabet and I explored somewhere often overlooked by us and perhaps many others. Heading west from Kendal towards Barrow-in-Furness lies the coastal town of Grange-over-Sands.

Miltonrigg Woods, Cumbria, Autumn

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 20:40:52 +0000

Ever since we returned from South Wales, it basically hasn’t stopped raining in North England.

This has severely limited opportunities to get and about in the local area for some quality hikes and enjoy the season’s autumn colours.

The Elidir Trail Falls, Powys, South Wales, Autumn

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 19:25:55 +0000

Our last full day in South Wales.

We’d previously enjoyed some waterfall action at Cwm Rhaeadr near Llandovery. But that was just one waterfall, even though it was a mighty one.

Llansteffan, Carmarthenshire, South Wales, Autumn

Sun, 16 Oct 2022 10:20:09 +0000

Did you know that Wales is home to the most castles per square mile of any country in Europe?

Certainly during our stay in South Wales we visited our fair share of them, mostly in ruins, such as Dinefwr and Castell Carreg Cennen, and Llandovery castle.

Port Eynon, Gower, South Wales, Autumn

Sat, 15 Oct 2022 10:31:01 +0000

Just outside of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, one can find other excellent stretches of South Wales coastline.

East of Pembrokeshire, Swansea is home to the Gower Peninsula and the Gower AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty). We had already explored a small section of this area at the start of our holiday at Mumbles. But further along the coastline from Mumbles one can find a stretch of fantastical coastline between Port Eynon and Rhossili.

Llyn y Fan Fach, Brecon Beacons, South Wales, Autumn

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 16:10:51 +0000

If I had one main personal goal for this fortnight in South Wales we’re enjoying, it’s to get up one of the mountain ranges in the Brecon Beacons National Park.

Llandovery & Cwm Rhaeadr, South Wales, Autumn

Tue, 11 Oct 2022 17:20:33 +0000

If there’s a feature that—to my mind—typifies South Wales that isn’t it’s glorious coastline, it’s the waterfalls.

In fact, in the heart of the Brecon Beacons National Park lies an area called Waterfall Country.

Tenby & Lydstep Head, Pembrokeshire, South Wales, Autumn

Sun, 09 Oct 2022 14:49:52 +0000

After a morning spent carefully watching the weather apps, it was time to venture out.

Southwest of Wales one can find the historical port town of Tenby, or Dinbych-y-pysgod (“Fortlet of the fish”) to give its proper Welsh name. While we drove through the lashing rain, we arrived at Tenby in relatively dry conditions, wandering around the town and its beaches as the clouds gradually lifted and broke apart.

Mumbles, Gower, South Wales, Autumn

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 18:41:40 +0000

A last burst of summer in autumn.

For our second full day in South Wales we decided to check somewhere we’d never been to before on our previous South Wales explorations: Mumbles.

The Castles of Lllandeilo, South Wales, Autumn

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 14:42:14 +0000

We’re in South Wales for a fortnight!

It feels great to relax and have a proper break from the severely challenging year we’ve had.

Arriving at our holiday property Friday evening—after a gruelling 5-hour drive in the lashing rain—we woke up Saturday deciding to explore the area nearby where we’re staying around Llandeilo.

Walltown Crags, Northumberland, Autumn

Sun, 18 Sep 2022 20:09:04 +0000

There’s so much in history in the UK that it can sometimes be hard to separate the work of man from nature.

With a beautiful autumnal weekend on the horizon, Lisabet and I set out to meet up with my Dad for a hike somewhere new: Walltown Country Park in Northumberland.

Lawson Park, Coniston, Lake District, Autumn

Sun, 11 Sep 2022 11:45:27 +0000

We had opportunity this weekend to visit somewhere a little different.

As we move from Summer to Autumn—with the increase in stormy downpours apparent—the quality of light improves drastically. But before the legendary Lake District autumnal colours arrive, we’re in peak fruit and berry harvesting season. What better way to observe and learn about growing fruit and vegetables than a tour of Lawson Park above Coniston Water?

Grasmere Sports & Show, Lake District, Summer

Sun, 28 Aug 2022 19:16:03 +0000

Back for the first time in 2 years.

Time for something rather different from me.

If you’re a long-time follower of my blog or work (hello, and thank you!) you’ll know I’m mostly about the landscapes, nature, architecture, and travel.

Retro Reworking: Pembrokeshire & Brecon Beacons, South Wales, Autumn, 2018

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 20:16:49 +0000

I think we’re due a break after the year we’ve had.

Happily Lisabet and I was able to book our usual two-week September/October break. Where to go this year?

We felt that Scotland, as much as we dearly love the country, would prove too costly with 2022 petrol prices. What about Wales? It’s been a good while since we’ve visited, moreso since we’ve been to South Wales in particular.

Hull Pot, Yorkshire Dales, Summer

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 19:11:44 +0000

There’s something awe-inspiring yet slightly unnerving about a giant hole in the ground.

The Yorkshire Dales is known for many things: beautiful waterfalls everywhere, isolated peaks, perfectly sculpted valleys… and also, caves. It’s home to some of the most extensive cave systems in the UK.

Force Falls & Levens Hall Deer Park, Cumbria, Summer

Sat, 06 Aug 2022 19:13:15 +0000

A gorgeous evening on the horizon. What to do? Where to go?

Lisabet often has brilliant ideas and this no exception: park up alongside Force Falls and follow the path all the way into and around Levens Hall Deer Park and back.

Cunswick Scar, Lake District, Summer

Tue, 02 Aug 2022 19:41:39 +0000

After a wet week, it was nice to get up on the fells above Kendal.

On the Sunday, Lisabet had a series of obligations to attend to, so I took the opportunity for a solo hike. As Kendal sits in a valley (Kent + Dale, that is, “the valley of the river Kent”), it is flanked east and west by small fells. On the western side of the valley the ground gently rises up before terminating in a series of limestone cliffs plunging down to the Lyth Valley. The main fell here is Scout Scar, a local favourite, but a smaller sibling can be found further north: Cunswick Scar.

Sedbergh Meadows, Cumbria, Summer

Sat, 30 Jul 2022 10:33:53 +0000

British weather has returned to its unpredictable norm since the heatwave.

This has made getting out for good long hikes—either during the weekends or in the evenings—difficult. We’ve had periods of torrential downpours, almost monsoon-like.

Walla Crag, Lake District, Summer

Sun, 17 Jul 2022 19:47:13 +0000

A 4am start.

The UK is on the cusp of a record-breaking heatwave, kicking in Sunday evening/Monday morning. Even before the real heatwave arrived, Sunday’s temperatures up here in Cumbria were looking to peak at around 26°C. Not only that, summer in the Lake District is easily its busiest time. So what to do?

Mallerstang & Smardale, Cumbria, Summer

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 20:09:27 +0000

The British summer heatwave has arrived.

I took the opportunity for a long overdue stay over at my Dad’s, so that we could enjoy a lovely wander in the glorious British sunshine during the weekend.

Bowderdale, Howgills, Cumbria, Summer

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 20:38:41 +0000

Today required… flexibility.

My initial plan for the day was to get up early and head to Kentmere for a lovely walk around the valley and its fells. It’s usually a trial to access Kentmere; the road to it from Staveley is long and narrow with few passing places. Then, once you’re at Kentmere, the only place to park is outside the church, fit for maybe 4–5 cars.

Great Langdale, Lake District, Summer

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 09:47:31 +0000

It has been too long since I’ve been to Great Langdale.

In fact, from what I can make out, the last time I visited Great Langdale was November 2020. That’s bad.

Scout Scar, Lake District, Summer

Mon, 20 Jun 2022 16:03:17 +0000

My poor Lisabet is still fighting COVID-19.

So, after being a dutiful boyfriend and sorting out brews/shopping/whatnot, I took the opportunity for a solid hike up to Scout Scar.

The weather is really starting to pick up in the UK now. Whilst we haven’t seen temperatures that the likes of France are currently experiencing (pushing 42°C), parts of the southeast England and London have been hitting 30°C.

Hawes Bridge, Kendal, Cumbria, Summer

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 19:27:49 +0000

COVID-19 is in da house.

2 years and 3 months after the initial UK-wide Lockdown announcement, my poor Lisabet has contracted the virus.

She’s being quarantined in the bedroom, door shut, windows open, and donning a mask whenever I need to go in to deliver brews or food.

Paddy’s Lane, Cumbria, Summer

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 19:32:54 +0000

2022 has got more twists and turns than a goat’s intestines.

This isn’t the place to rant. Suffice it to say, it’s been a super frustrating year. Thankfully, I have had a small nugget of personal positive news, which I’ll clutch tightly to my chest and use as a shield for whatever 2022 has next for me.

Grisedale, Lake District, Summer

Sat, 04 Jun 2022 13:20:38 +0000

It was time to show Dad the glory of Grisedale.

With the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee giving us two days holiday, Dad and I were able to spend some time together. We embarked on a hike up Grisedale, an offshoot of the main Patterdale valley near Ullswater. To my mind, Grisedale features one of the greatest valley sceneries in all of the Lake District.

Testing the Vivitar “Series 1” 28–105 mm f/2.8–3.8 lens on a Fujifilm X-T2

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 09:29:15 +0000

To start, I need to make a few disclaimers.

Firstly, this isn’t a technical review, involving test cards, colour charts, and other rigorous methods of optical testing. I don’t know how to do any of that, and I’m sure plenty on the internet have already done so.

Scout Scar, Lake District, Spring

Sat, 28 May 2022 19:56:10 +0000

2022 has been fuckin’ wild so far.

But finally, things are a bit happier. Family members that had been in hospital for separate issues are now home and recuperating.

It’s been stressful, and there have been somber conversations.

Brigsteer Park, Lake District, Spring

Sat, 21 May 2022 18:00:31 +0000

I wanted to see a lot of bluebells one last time for this year.

A work colleague tipped me off about Brigsteer Park, a woodland south of its village namesake, Brigsteer. The village sits underneath Scout Scar, and there’s a surprising amount of woodland underneath this fell.

Serpentine Woods, Cumbria, Spring

Sun, 15 May 2022 19:45:31 +0000

There’s a lot going on right now.

So, with another glorious spring day on the horizon, Lisabet and I booted up for a hike up the fellside of Kendal into Serpentine Woods.

High Pike, Lake District, Spring

Fri, 13 May 2022 19:34:38 +0000

There’s more to the Northern Fells of the Lake District than meets the eye.

Nearing the end of our May break, and after having enjoyed the delights of Dash Falls, Lisabet and I decided that a reasonably high climb was in order.

Dash Falls, Lake District, Spring

Fri, 06 May 2022 21:54:06 +0000

Here’s another place I’ve been meaning to explore for ages.

The Northern Fells of the Lake District are dominated by two champions: Skiddaw and Blencathra, the 6th and 18th highest mountains in England respectively. These fells make up a wall of peaks at the southern end of the Northern Fells, looming directly over Keswick and Threlkeld.

Allonby Bay, Cumbria, Spring

Thu, 05 May 2022 22:04:28 +0000

We’re taking a week’s break in Western Cumbria.

After arriving at the accommodation near Wigton, meeting the owners, and settling in, we decided an evening stroll at nearby Allonby Bay was in order.

Cunswick Scar, Lake District, Spring

Mon, 02 May 2022 21:44:25 +0000

Things are really starting to look nice and green now.

After what seemed like a month or so of virtually no rain throughout spring, the April/May cusp has brought a decent amount of overnight precipitation. It seems like the plants really needed it.

West Burton Falls, Yorkshire Dales, Spring

Sat, 30 Apr 2022 20:03:26 +0000

Another Yorkshire Dales waterfall ticked off.

On the way back from our weekend at Pateley Bridge, where we scrambled up Trollers Gill and explored Almscliffe Crag, we decided no the scenic route right through the centre of the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

Barkbooth Lot, Lake District, Spring

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 19:10:48 +0000

Welcome back to Barkbooth Lot!

We’re starting to see those beautiful bluebells appearing in woodlands across Cumbria now, so over the weekend we enjoyed a wander around our new favourite bluebell spot, Barkbooth Lot.

Coldstones Cut & Almscliffe Crag, North Yorkshire, Spring

Sat, 23 Apr 2022 13:43:43 +0000

Yorkshire’s a beautiful county, isn’t it?

Living in Kendal as we do, we enjoy closer access to the Yorkshire Dales, an area in North Yorkshire we love dearly. But there’s plenty more outside of the Dales.

Trollers Gill & Parcevall Hall, Yorkshire Dales, Spring

Tue, 19 Apr 2022 19:54:36 +0000

Happy belated Easter everyone. Did you have a good ‘un?

Usually for Cumbria, and the Lake District in particular, Easter signals the first tourism wave of the season. With that in mind, and no obligations to serve, Lisabet and I booked a couple of nights away in a beautiful B&B set in bonny Pateley Bridge, in the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Warriners Wood, Lake District, Spring

Sun, 10 Apr 2022 16:27:21 +0000

A brighter weekend means a long Sunday morning above Kendal.

We’ve been to Warriners Wood many times before, after we found it during the winter of 2021. As of spring this year it appears to have survived the 2021/2022 storm season rather well, and some of my favourite trees are still standing strong.

Kirkby Lonsdale, Cumbria, Spring

Sun, 03 Apr 2022 14:00:14 +0000

Cumbria’s got super cold again after last weekend’s bizarre heatwave.

Following the weekend’s temperatures pushing 20ºC, Monday onwards saw conditions plunge back down to freezing point with fresh snow falling on the fells. Thankfully, as the week progressed, the atmosphere cleared up and blue skies have been a regular feature, but temperatures are still barely reaching 10ºC.

Gowbarrow, Lake District, Spring

Sat, 26 Mar 2022 19:39:18 +0000

Spring has changed very quickly in the UK.

A couple of weeks ago temperatures barely rose above 10ºC, often settling in at around 5–7ºC. Within the last week, temperatures have suddenly risen to 15ºC with clear skies and barely a breeze. Today, the weather nearly hit 20ºC.

Helsfell Nab, Kendal, Cumbria, Spring

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 19:52:22 +0000

This weekend, it really feels like Spring has arrived.

Temperatures rose to the mid-teens, finally, and the skies have cleared up. The daffodils are out in full, and this year’s lambs are alternatively dosing in the sun and sucking at their mums.

Kendal Fell, Cumbria, Spring

Sat, 12 Mar 2022 20:40:57 +0000

The daffodils have arrived!

Spring is in the air, so I decided a local wander was in order to see how spring was progressing. I was delighted to see daffodils blossoming here and there, but the other side of the coin was seeing the damage this winter’s storms had done to Serpentine Woods.

High Sweden Bridge, Lake District, Spring

Sun, 06 Mar 2022 21:22:24 +0000

It was nice to get a bit of altitude.

I think the last time we hiked the High Sweden Bridge circular was back in June of 2020, just as the UK was starting to come out of the first COVID-19 Lockdown. Wow. Time flies, eh?

Brough Castle, Cumbria, Spring

Sat, 05 Mar 2022 21:52:03 +0000

My shoulder’s starting to feel well enough for some more energetic and long distance hikes.

With the weather forecast finally looking nice for the weekend, we spent Saturday with my Dad and took him to the historic village of Brough in Cumbria. Here one can find the impressive ruins of the 11th century Brough Castle.

Howgills & Yorkshire Dales, Winter

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 19:38:09 +0000

The week leading to these photos and this post has been… frustrating.

On Monday my left shoulder grew progressively stiff and painful. By the evening I was in a lot of pain and I ultimately did not get a second of sleep. Looks like I did another one of my favourite Fit-During-My-Sleep-And-Discolate-A-Limb-Whilst-Shredding-Muscles.

Kendal (Post-Eunice), Cumbria, Winter

Sun, 20 Feb 2022 11:53:07 +0000

The day after Storm Eunice.

Evenings and weekends have been frustratingly wet and stormy in February, which has meant that I’ve not been able to get out into nature as much as I’d like. This culminated in the week commencing 14th February, which saw two named storms passing over the British Isles: Storm Dudley and Storm Eunice.

Brockholes Nature Reserve, Lancashire, Winter

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 20:26:08 +0000

Recently I had the joy and honour of staying over at my best friend’s place in Preston, Lancashire.

I lived in Preston for many years, leaving in 2012 to move further up north in Kendal, Cumbria. As such, it’s been a decade since I’ve seen Preston. The city has changed a lot.

Kendal Town, Cumbria, Winter

Sat, 29 Jan 2022 19:54:33 +0000

A new storm has arrived on our shores.

Storm Cowrie, like Storm Arwen, has not brought much in the way of rain (at least here in Cumbria) but definitely in terms of wind. There’s already been recordings of 140+ mph winds on the peaks of the Cairngorms in Scotland.

St. Bees, Cumbria, Winter

Sun, 23 Jan 2022 16:54:05 +0000

For our final full day of our mini-break, a trip to the coast was in order.

The weather forecast for the day had the fells of the Western Lake District blanketed in clouds. Instead, the westernmost point of Cumbria seemed like a good alternative.

Ennerdale, Lake District, Winter

Sat, 22 Jan 2022 19:06:21 +0000

Compared to Buttermere’s clear blue skies, Ennerdale could not have been more different.

I think the last time we were at Ennerdale was in April 2017. Goodness. That’s coming on to 5 years now. It’s one of my favourite places in the Lake District, with a distinctly unique “vibe” compared to any other area in the National Park.

Buttermere, Lake District, Winter

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 16:19:32 +0000

It’s time for a mini-break.

We were planning for a Christmas break away in Scotland. But after the emergence and subsequent rise of the SARS-CoV-2-Omicron variant, we decided to cancel it.

Levens Hall Deer Park, Cumbria, Winter

Sat, 15 Jan 2022 20:25:17 +0000

I hope you like trees.

With other duties and tasks that needed to be completed today, we decided on a lovely 10,000-step walk around the Levens Hall Deer Park. The park was landscaped some 300-odd years ago, around the same time as the gardens of the historic Levens Hall. As such, many of the trees in the park are centuries old and, unfortunately, some of them have suffered after Storm Arwen’s 100mph winds.

Kirkoswald, Cumbria, Winter

Sun, 02 Jan 2022 20:50:07 +0000

Welcome to the ancient village of Kirkoswald.

The day ahead looked to be rather changeable, with unpredictable downpours combined with gusty winds. Our best bet was to head to Northern Cumbria. So why not spend a day with Dad?

Scout Scar, New Year’s Day, Lake District, Winter

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 20:51:07 +0000

Happy New Year everyone! Here’s to a joyous and—hopefully—more globally positive 2022.

The weather has been… weird. In fact, the UK set a new temperature record for New Year’s Eve, reaching as high as 16.5ºC. That is uncharacteristically warm. Temperatures maintained their elevated levels on New Year’s Day, too, but high winds also arrived. After a decent lie in, Lisabet and I decided on a local favourite to enjoy the first day of the new year: Scout Scar.

Keswick–Threlkeld Railway, Lake District, Winter

Mon, 27 Dec 2021 17:05:52 +0000

And now for something completely different.

After yesterday’s thrilling circular hike around the gorgeous and epic Malhamdale, today we embarked on something a little more tourist-friendly and flat: the Keswick–Threlkeld Railway walk.

Malhamdale, Yorkshire Dales, Winter

Sun, 26 Dec 2021 11:04:20 +0000

Merry Christmas everyone!

After a morning of tasty foods and gift exchanging/opening, Lisabet and I decided on a wintery hike around Malhamdale in the Yorkshire Dales.

The Yorkshire Dales has much to offer but a particular jewel in the Park is Malhamdale. The area features the beautiful village of Malham, the epic and ancient extinct waterfall of Malham Cove, the cavernous cathedral of Gordale Scar, and the peaceful waters of Janet’s Foss.

Dodd, Lake District, Winter

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 19:20:56 +0000

Thankfully a dry, if bitingly cold, weather system has descended on the British Isles.

On the Saturday, Kendal was engulfed in a soupy-think mist. It almost seemed to muffle the world in a pillow. In actuality, a temperature inversion sat on top of a lot of Lake District valleys, including Kendal. Conditions above the inversion were clear, sunny, and bright.

Scout Scar, Lake District, Winter

Tue, 30 Nov 2021 21:11:47 +0000

On Saturday just gone, my Dad celebrated his 68th birthday!

Do you know what else happened on that day? Storm Arwen arrived. And it brought with it sustained winds of over 60mph with gusts approaching 100mph. Ultimately it caused power cuts for tens of thousands of homes across the UK as trees were torn from their roots and slammed into power lines.

Easedale, Lake District, Autumn

Wed, 24 Nov 2021 20:24:41 +0000

And just like that, it starts to feel like winter.

This past weekend, temperatures suddenly plunged 5–8°C, bringing in clear and frosty days with freezing cold nights. On the Sunday, a crystal clear blue-sky day greeted us, so we donned our gloves and hats and made our way into the Lake District. Our goal: a lovely autumnal hike from Grasmere, up to Easedale Tarn via Sourmilk Ghyll, and back down into Far Easedale before returning to Grasmere.

Ingleton Waterfalls, Yorkshire Dales, Autumn

Sun, 14 Nov 2021 17:12:37 +0000

Finally, we’re starting to see some crisp and clear autumnal days.

After another week or so of rain and clouds, Saturday set the scene with clear skies, warm sun, and cool temperatures. Our mind started racing: where to go? We wanted to go somewhere where we could shoot the last of this season’s autumn colours, ideally.

Deepdale, Lake District, Autumn

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 21:39:06 +0000

Grisedale keeps evading us.

After meticulously scanning the weather forecasts and satellite radars, Dad and I embarked initially on a lovely hike up one of my favourite valleys: Grisedale.

Last time rain fended us off. This time, a running/trials event blocked all the car parks in Patterdale and Glenridding. No matter, that’s why you should have a back up plan! Instead, we drove back towards Brothers Water and pulled up in a little-used layby. This was the start of the hike into Deepdale.

Winter Droving 2021, Cumbria, Autumn

Sun, 31 Oct 2021 20:29:28 +0000

It’s been a while since my last post, for which I can only apologise.

A lot can change in a month, and this particularly applies to the British weather. After one of the warmest Septembers on record, and a particularly dry summer, October developed into a wet and blustery month. By Wednesday 27th October, Storm Aurore arrived and dumped 361.6mm of rainfall in almost 36 hours over Honister Pass (for context, the UK record for highest rainfall in 24 hours was recorded at Honister Pass; 341.4mm due to Storm Desmond in December 2015).

Various Places, Loch Lomond & the Trossachs, Autumn, Scotland

Sun, 10 Oct 2021 14:37:14 +0000

Our Loch Lomond holiday is over.

But before I say goodbye, here’s some bonus photos that didn’t really fit in with any of my other Loch Lomond Holiday posts.

I hope you enjoy them. Until next time, Scotland…

Balquhidder, Loch Lomond & the Trossachs, Autumn, Scotland

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 20:24:07 +0000

Wednesday was looking like another glorious day! So this time we aimed for the more quiet northwestern part of the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park. Welcome to Balquhidder Glen, lined by mountains known as the Braes of Balquhidder.

Loch Katrine, Loch Lomond & the Trossachs, Scotland, Autumn

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 17:12:59 +0000

The rain finally ceased.

So we set our sights on one of our main “bookmarks” for this Loch Lomond holiday: Loch Katrine.

In particular, our true goal was a small yet isolated hill high above the loch called Ben A’an (461 m/1,512 ft). It’s a very popular hill walk and for good reason: it offers one of the grandest and most spectacular views in all of Scotland (check out the Wikipedia view here).

Lodge Forest, Loch Lomond & the Trossachs, Scotland, Autumn

Sun, 03 Oct 2021 21:00:32 +0000

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs attracts people from afar for its lochs and mountains, of course. But the national park is also nationally famous for its extensive forests and woodlands.

Conic Hill, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs, Scotland, Autumn

Sat, 02 Oct 2021 18:21:38 +0000

We’re back in Scotland, bayBEEEE!

It feels so good to be back. Especially during the height of autumn, clearly the best time of the year.

We’ve had to contend with a variety of low pressure weather systems waving across the British Isles this week. This doesn’t seem to be easing. So, this morning, we got up and out to Balmaha. We wanted to get a hike up to the summit of Conic Hill (361 m/1,184 ft) before the forecasted rain storm arrived.

Lowther Estate, Cumbria, Autumn

Sun, 26 Sep 2021 18:51:17 +0000

Autumn’s definitely here. You know what’s also here? The Great British Changeable Weather.

I took an educated guess at the weather today and decided our best bet for good light and conditions would be East Lake District/Cumbria during mid-morning/early afternoon. So! We ventured to the Lowther Castle and its Estate, for a healthy jaunt from the castle grounds to Askham Fell and back round.

Singleton Park, Cumbria, Autumn

Sun, 19 Sep 2021 17:39:13 +0000

Wow, it’s been a good couple of weeks since my last blog post.

Firstly, sorry about that. It’s been a mad two weeks or so. Largely because I’ve changed jobs, which has required a lot of spare mental energy to adjust to new circumstances, after being at my previous employer for 7.5 years.

Walla Crag, Lake District, Autumn

Sun, 05 Sep 2021 19:31:30 +0000

Autumn has arrived.

The “life” from all the verdant vegetation is starting to wane, the ferns are turning rust-hued, and the leaves are beginning to drop. Autumn’s here, and I cannot wait for those autumnal colours.

Howgills, Yorkshire Dales, Summer

Sun, 29 Aug 2021 19:51:32 +0000

It was time to come back to the Howgills.

Back in April this year, 2021, Lisabet and I made our first hike up onto the Howgills, summiting Winder (473 m/1,552 ft), the fell that directly overlooks the beautiful Yorkshire Dales town of Sedbergh. It wasn’t hard, during that hike, to gawp at the next fell along the ridge from Winder, namely Arant Haw at 605 m. We vowed to return and tackle Arant Haw.

North Pennines Waterfalls, County Durham, Summer

Fri, 27 Aug 2021 10:30:18 +0000

Woohoo for a week off! With the Lake District as rammed as it is at the moment, let’s go somewhere and l’al bit different.

The North Pennines AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) is a favourite of ours but remains relatively untouched by us. We’ve explored arguably the jewel of the North Pennines, High Cup Nick, many times. But another absolutely stunning part of the area is the three main waterfalls: High Force, Low Force, and Cauldron Snout.

Colwith Force, Summer, Lake District

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 08:28:20 +0000

After two successive weekends of rain, it was time to seek a waterfall or two.

Getting outside for some solid hiking has been difficult given the changeable conditions we’ve experienced in August. Thankfully, the week ahead is looking promising, which is fortuitous because I have a week off.

Hodge Close Quarry, Lake District, Summer

Thu, 12 Aug 2021 16:11:56 +0000

Time for something a little bit different.

The Lake District is obviously world famous for its natural splendour; the lakes, fells, tarn, waterfalls, and everything in between. But beneath the surface of this picture of paradise lies thousands of years of man-made work.

Berwick-upon-Tweed, Northumberland, Summer

Sun, 08 Aug 2021 15:28:02 +0000

Here’s the final collection of work from our week-long summer jaunt around Northumberland.

Berwick-upon-Tweed is a town steeped in history and filled with curiosities. It’s England’s northernmost town, right in the northeastern corner of the country. In fact, it’s slightly further north than Copenhagen in Denmark as well as the southern tip of Sweden.

Whitbarrow, Lake District, Summer

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 19:08:37 +0000

It was time to continue exploring a “local” fell.

The first time Lisabet and I checked out Whitbarrow was only a few months ago, March in fact. Considering it’s just a few miles west of Kendal, it’s incredible that we’d never hiked up the fell in all our time living round here.

Newton Point, Northumberland, Summer

Sat, 31 Jul 2021 19:32:08 +0000

Ah haar, there’s a sea fret rolling in.

Early on in our Northumberland break we fancied a hike around Embleton Bay, to shoot photos of the bay’s massive and smooth black basalt boulders with views towards the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle.

Bullpot, Yorkshire Dales, Summer

Tue, 27 Jul 2021 20:15:15 +0000

The heatwave has finally ended.

After a week of temperatures pushing 30°C consistently with barely any air movement, today was looking a more comfortable 23°C with some wind.

About a month ago we embarked on one of our favourite local-ish walks, Barbondale in the Yorkshire Dales. On that occasion I was somewhat distracted by the sheer number of deer flies biting chunks out of me. Part of the Barbondale hike we did involved clambering over into Bullpot. We resolved to return to Bullpot for a deeper exploration of the area’s famous pot holes, gills, and caves, particularly Ease Gill Kirk.

The Newlands Round, Lake District, Summer

Sun, 18 Jul 2021 12:01:51 +0000

The British Summer Heatwave has arrived.

In the week leading up to yesterday, Saturday 17th July, I had been planning a fell walk with my friend, Kate. She has more experience fell walking than I do, so we agreed to try a fell walk incorporating a view I’ve been after for years: Dale Head.

Castles & Circles, Northumberland, Summer

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 19:38:00 +0000

This might be a bit of a mish-mash of a post, so bear with me.

One morning, whilst perusing our favourite weather apps and services, we could see that we needed to stay away from the coast if we wanted to avoid the rain and thunder. Being more in-land would be a better deal. So we began looking at our “wishlist” of Northumberland in-land locations and realised that quite a few of them were fair clustered together.

Bamburgh, Budle & Cheswick Sands, Northumberland, Summer

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 18:47:02 +0000

Despite being in peak summer, it wasn’t all glorious sunshine during our week in Northumberland.

On this particular day I poured over the various weather apps and services I check to ascertain temperatures, chances of rain, atmospheric conditions and more. From what I could see, if we stayed near the coast of Northumberland around Bamburgh we could probably avoid a lot of storms that were moving southwards.

St. Abbs Head, Scottish Borders, Scotland

Fri, 09 Jul 2021 17:00:33 +0000

I’m back from a week away! How’s everyone been?

Lisabet and I took a week’s summer break, based in a small farm cottage not too far from Berwick-upon-Tweed, Northumberland. We enjoyed lots of hiking this holiday, and as this is Northumberland and the Scottish Borders, that meant plenty of coastal action, beaches, cliffs, the lot.

Newlands Valley, Lake District, Summer

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 18:31:49 +0000

On the Sunday following the Saturday, we threw caution to the wind and visited the Lake District for a solid hike.

Signs were looking good that, for a Sunday morning, the Lake District wasn’t looking too busy (use Safer Lakes to check the busyness of Lake District car parks). We drove to Keswick and plotted a hiking route from the town onto the Cumbria Way towards the Lingholm Estate, where we’d pause for refreshment. Then we’d continue on the Cumbria Way towards the foot of Catbells, and break off into the Newlands Valley, terminating at Little Town and circling back all the way to Keswick.

Barbondale, Yorkshire Dales, Summer

Mon, 28 Jun 2021 18:36:01 +0000

With the summer heat increasing once again, it was time to revisit a favourite of ours: Barbondale.

The last time we hiked around the area was May last year (2020). One year and a month on, tree felling operations in the area are still very much in action. I wonder why a lot of the woodland in the valley is being cut down and replanted? It is quite sad to see.

Bowscale Tarn, Lake District, Summer

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 19:23:50 +0000

We kicked off Father’s Day weekend by revisiting the Mosedale valley in the Northern Fells of the Lake District.

The last time we hiked Mosedale was back in March of this year, during a visit to my Dad’s. It was our first time in this quiet valley and we were floored with the sights and views. The nice weather probably helped.

Cunswick Fell, Lake District, Summer

Sun, 06 Jun 2021 20:53:04 +0000

Sometimes, as an Englishman, you just need to have a proper English Countryside experience.

For one reason or another, I’ve not been feeling 100% mentally and emotionally this week. Saturday arrived as a glorious summer’s day. We knew the Lake District would be absolutely heaving with people. Instead, we opted for a local 9km walk around the Cunswick Fell area.

Cockermouth, Cumbria, Summer

Sat, 05 Jun 2021 19:58:26 +0000

Let’s move away a little from the landscapes and nature.

Lisabet and I recently had occasion to enjoy an outdoor swimming session with esteemed outdoor and wild swimming guide Suzanna Cruickshank. Not only was Suzanna a total delight, with the patience and compassion of a saint, but the weather couldn’t have been better with clear skies and 20+ degree sun. We were guided on a swim in Bassenthwaite Lake, which thankfully allows for a gentle drop into the water unlike most other lakes in the Lake District. The experience was exhilarating, fun, and freeing.

Stockdale, Settle, Yorkshire Dales, Spring

Wed, 02 Jun 2021 19:24:27 +0000

Summer has well and truly arrived.

Following on from our little hike around Stenkrith Park and the Lune Gorge, Sunday greeted with us with clear blue skies and 20+ degree sunshine. That’ll do, nicely.

Stenkrith Park, Kirkby Stephen, Cumbria, Spring

Sun, 30 May 2021 15:35:56 +0000

Woohoo, Spring Bank Holiday weekend!

On the first day of our 3-day weekend, we ventured northeast towards the bonny Cumbrian town of Kirkby Stephen. Aware of the rush of people heading into the Lake District, we’ve decided to largely stay out of Cumbria for this Bank Holiday. Near Kirkby Stephen is Stenkrith Park, which I’ve written about before. Here one can enjoy the incredible sights of the River Eden and the limestone gorge it’s created, then follow the Viaduct Trail for more glorious views and scenes.

Swindale, Lake District, Spring

Sun, 23 May 2021 20:58:56 +0000

We finally got the opportunity to explore one of the Lake District’s “hidden” valleys.

I’ve had Swindale bookmarked in my Pinterest for years now. What drew me to the area was looking at maps of the valley’s head, appropriately called Swindale Head. Here you can find a series of cascades and waterfalls dropping down 300 ft of crag, known as Forces Falls.

Beckmickle Ing, Staveley, Lake District, Spring

Thu, 13 May 2021 19:35:13 +0000

It’s taken a little longer, but the bluebells have finally arrived.

After work recently, Lisabet and I hopped into the car and drove just a few miles up the A591 to Staveley, a Lake District village near Kendal. We had been recommended a walk near the village from my boss, due to the woodlands of bluebells in the area.

Askham Fell, Lowther, Cumbria, Spring

Sun, 09 May 2021 17:33:59 +0000

Everything is starting to look proper lush.

After a completely washed out Saturday, today looked significantly more promising. Lisabet had found a 7.5-mile circular hike around the Lowther Estate that utilises a section of the Ullswater Way, so that’s what we did.

Dodd Woods, Lake District, Spring

Mon, 03 May 2021 11:49:55 +0000

After an unusually dry and cold April 2021, the rain has returned.

This Bank Holiday Lisabet and I planned on a long hike through the Mallerstang valley in the Yorkshire Dales, a favourite of ours. However, reading all the weather radars and forecasts indicated a lot of rain was on its way through South Lakes and the Yorkshire Dales. By contrast, the northern Lake District looked pretty good. So we changed plans and embarked on a hike up Dodd (502 m/1,647 ft), a small fell that came highly recommended by a friend of mine.

Grisedale, Lake District, Spring

Sun, 25 Apr 2021 15:39:10 +0000

Grisedale has to be in my top 3 favourite Lake District valleys.

I have a fairly troubled history with this place. The last time both Lisabet and I visited it was the middle of summer on a clear and hot day. We hiked all the way from the foot of the valley to Grisedale Tarn and back down. About 7 miles and 1,300 ft of ascent. In mid-20s heat, with no wind or clouds. Whilst being 23/24 stone. I suffered on that walk, and stumbled a lot on the way back down, which angered me.

Roudsea Wood & Mosses, Cumbria, Spring

Sat, 17 Apr 2021 21:52:23 +0000

Time for somewhere a little different.

Cumbria being what it is, a sparsely-populated county full of nature, there’s a fair few Nature Reserves never mind the actual Lake District National Park. We’ve explored a few of them previously, for example Foulshaw Moss and Watchtree. This time we ventured south of Windermere and Newby Bridge, beyond the pretty village of Haverthwaite.

Lancaster Canal, Cumbria, Spring

Sun, 11 Apr 2021 17:12:13 +0000

Today was a little more low key.

The last time Lisabet and I walked the “Northern Reaches” of Lancaster Canal was back in May/June of 2020. You should check those posts out for more of the history of Lancaster Canal, with greater detail about the Northern Reaches.

Grizedale Forest, Lake District, Spring

Sat, 10 Apr 2021 19:31:16 +0000

Welcome to Grizedale Forest.

After a morning of joint optician appointments, the day was looking fine and ripe for some hiking. Where would we go? Lisabet suggested Grizedale Forest, which I immediately leapt on. She’s never been to the area, and the last I visited was so long ago that I cannot summon any memories of the place.

Bardsea, Cumbria, Spring

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 19:07:23 +0000

It’s time to say goodbye to our extended Easter break.

Not including everyday walks to and from local shops, we’ve managed to clock up nearly 39 miles or 62 km of hiking.

Gowbarrow Fell, Lake District, Spring

Tue, 06 Apr 2021 20:36:57 +0000

Spring conditions are somewhat changeable at the moment.

Lisabet and I have been somewhat fortunate with this week-long extended Easter break. The first few days were relatively balmy for Cumbria, peaking at around 15°C. By Good Friday an “arctic blast” was arriving from the north, and temperatures quickly dropped by around 10°C or so. Despite the swing in climate conditions, the sky has remained consistently free of clouds.

Caldbeck, Lake District, Spring

Mon, 05 Apr 2021 18:14:17 +0000

Happy Easter, everyone.

I hope everyone has had/is having a safe and enjoyable Easter. It’s certainly helped that most of the country has experienced relatively dry, bright, and clear conditions during the Easter break.

Winder, Howgills, Cumbria, Spring

Fri, 02 Apr 2021 20:52:25 +0000

We’ve neglected the Howgills for too long.

On this Good Friday we elected to stay away from the Lake District, expecting visitor numbers to sharply increase. We did want to stay within the same council area, though. So we ventured east over the M6 and into Sedbergh, the beautiful bookish town at the foot of the Howgills.

Easedale, Lake District, Spring

Fri, 02 Apr 2021 14:39:01 +0000

It’s been quite a few years since we’ve been to Easedale.

In fact, looking through my archives, it’s been four years and a month. Today, Lisabet and I decided we were due for a revisit.

Loughrigg Fell, Lake District, Spring

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 19:48:51 +0000

Step 1 of the UK Government’s Spring 2021 COVID-19 plan has been completed.

From Monday 29th, more people can now meet outside, outdoor recreation activities are permitted again, and the “Stay at home” ruling has relaxed to “Stay local”.

Pandemic Peregrinations: Whitbarrow, Cumbria, Spring

Sun, 21 Mar 2021 18:01:19 +0000

I’ve often gazed longingly at Whitbarrow Scar from afar.

Finally we decided to clamber around it.

Whitbarrow (215m/705ft) is a limestone hill, much like its neighbour Scout Scar, with whom I’m much more familiar with. Whitbarrow is further west of Scout Scar across the Lyth Valley, but covers a much larger area. When viewed from the A590 south of the fell, Whitbarrow presents some sheer and imposing cliff faces that I instantly fell in love the first time I saw them. I resolved to one day wander around the contours of Whitbarrow. Today was that day.

Pandemic Peregrinations: Kendal Fell, Cumbria, Spring

Sat, 20 Mar 2021 20:08:56 +0000

Spring has sprung.

After a relatively dry and bright week, we were very much hoping for similar if not better for the weekend. Saturday came around and we were grateful. A proper spring day.

Pandemic Peregrinations: Serpentine Woods, Spring, Cumbria

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 19:37:00 +0000

Step 1 of the government’s Spring COVID-19 Response Plan is in action.

Students have gone back to school and in theory by the 29th of March people will be allowed to meet outdoors in bigger groups.

Pandemic Peregrinations: Helsington, Cumbria, Spring

Sat, 06 Mar 2021 21:10:48 +0000

We’ve definitely had better light conditions recently.

Nevertheless, Lisabet and I embarked on a solid 15 km hike today. From the front door, down the A6, through Helsington Laithes up to Scout Scar, south towards Helsington Church, through Berry Holme Farm, across the A591 to Hawes Bridge, and back north through the fields to Kendal.

Pandemic Peregrinations: Mosedale, Lake District, Spring

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 20:00:17 +0000

My Dad’s been vaccinated.

This is a relief for me as Dad’s a Type II Diabetic and thus Clinically Extremely Vulnerable.

As he’s in our Support Bubble we went to check in on him this weekend, spending a large part of the day in the valleys of the Northern Fells near where he lives.

Pandemic Peregrinations: Lower Borrowdale, Lake District, Spring

Sun, 28 Feb 2021 16:06:08 +0000

The Four Step Plan to “normality” has been announced by the government.

From the 8th March 2021 students will return to schools, colleges, and universities, and there will be a small loosening of social contact restrictions. Then from 29th March 2021 there is a further easing of social contact restrictions, primarily around meeting people outside. Outdoor sporting recreation will be allowed again, and you can start to travel within the country.

Pandemic Peregrinations: Scout Scar, Cumbria, Winter

Sun, 21 Feb 2021 20:26:00 +0000

Today, it really felt like spring is on its way.

This week has been extremely wet, Saturday in particular, so it was a veritable relief when Sunday emerged with blue skies and bright sun. We quickly took the opportunity to get outside for a solid wander towards, and around, Scout Scar, clocking up nearly 8-miles of hiking all in all.

Isle of Arran, Scotland, Autumn 2017

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 19:22:07 +0000

Here’s one from the archives.

Back in September/October 2017, Lisabet and I took a 2-week holiday and split it into two. The first week was spent around the coast of the Scottish Borders, centred around Cove Harbour. The second week we crossed Scotland east to west and took a ferry over to the Isle of Arran.

Pandemic Peregrinations: Caldbeck Common, Cumbria, Winter

Sun, 31 Jan 2021 20:50:30 +0000

Today it was time for something a little different.

It’s been about a month since I last saw my Dad, and during that time a 3rd National Lockdown came into effect. My Dad’s in his 60s, lives alone, and has Type II Diabetes, so he’s in our “bubble”. So we thought it we were overdue for a visit, and zipped up to North Cumbria to check in on him, and get some exercise in whilst there.

Pandemic Peregrinations: Helsington Barrows, Cumbria, Winter

Sun, 24 Jan 2021 18:56:24 +0000

It’s amazing the difference 24-hours can make.

Yesterday we were hiking through mist and fog with a landscape covered in frost and snow.

Today a lot of the frost has melted, the sun was out, and the atmosphere was crystal clear.

Pandemic Peregrinations: Kendal, Cumbria, Winter

Sat, 23 Jan 2021 21:30:00 +0000

Welp, despite Storm Christoph’s best attempts, snow and ice have returned.

The rain finally left Britain, with parts of North England and the Midlands getting flooded. It filled us with trepidation, having experienced our home being flooded during December 2015’s Storm Desmond. Thankfully, though the River Kent did get high, no serious flooding was reported in Cumbria this time.

Pandemic Peregrinations: Brigsteer, Cumbria, Winter

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 21:09:45 +0000

After the recent wonderful wintery scenes of snow in and around Kendal, things have somewhat changed.

Storm Christoph has arrived over the British Isles, as well as all the flood warnings. Whilst we’re not expecting Storm Desmond-levels of rain, there will be enough to induce mild panic and anxiety within us Desmond-survivors.

Pandemic Peregrinations: Helsfell Nab, Kendal, Cumbria, Winter

Sat, 09 Jan 2021 20:26:46 +0000

The Pandemic Peregrinations are back.

On the 4th of January 2021 the UK entered its 3rd National Lockdown due to rising COVID-19 cases and a new—more infectious—variant ravaging its way through the nation.

Dalton Crags, Cumbria, Winter

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 19:57:07 +0000

Before the current cold snap arrived, Christmas was looking rather wet and miserable.

So on post-Boxing Day (is that a thing?) Lisabet and I decided to throw caution to the wind and attempt a hike up and around Dalton Crags.

Latrigg, Lake District, Winter

Thu, 31 Dec 2020 14:56:06 +0000

It’s really starting to feel like winter in the Lake District now.

As the weather improved over the Christmas Break, Lisabet and I decided to embark on a hike up a fell we’ve never done before: Latrigg.

The Rest of Skye & Beyond, Scotland, Autumn

Sat, 26 Dec 2020 13:52:40 +0000

Happy Boxing Day everyone.

One of the nice things about editing these photos from Skye is that I get to revisit this wonderful place all over again. I can send my mind right back to October 2020, place my two feet in the scene, and immerse my visual memory in the whole experience.

Glencoe, Highlands, Autumn

Sat, 12 Dec 2020 16:11:26 +0000

Glencoe is a place that fills me with total awe every time I visit.

Whether we’re heading towards the Isle of Skye or venturing further north towards Torridon and beyond, I always appreciate a “pit stop” around this epic place.

Deepdale, Lake District, Winter

Tue, 08 Dec 2020 20:19:48 +0000

Winter has arrived.

We’ve been watching as temperatures in Cumbria have steadily dropped from the tens to near freezing point.

By around the 3rd December snow started to fall across the high fells of the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales, followed by some ground level snow on the 4th.

Duntulm, Isle of Skye, Autumn

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 20:43:49 +0000

At Duntulm one can find the ruins of Duntulm Castle, the 17th century seat of the chiefs of Clan MacDonald of Sleat.

Duntulm (Dùn Thuilm in Scottish Gaelic) was originally a fortress built and inhabited by the Picts, an ancient Gaelic tribe. Then, like much of Great Britain, the Vikings arrived and claimed the site for themselves. Duntulm, and the rest of the Trotternish peninsula, was hotly contested and changed hands frequently until the 16th century when the Lord Of The Isles, Donhall Gorm (“Blue Donald”) seized the area, and started making improvements to the fort.

Oronsay, Isle of Skye, Autumn

Sun, 29 Nov 2020 23:06:21 +0000

The Isle of Skye is, of course, an island, but it’s also home to lots of satellite isles in its waters.

Most of these tiny isles can be found in Loch Bracadale, a sea loch off the coast of Northwestern Skye. It contains isles such as Harlosh Island, Tarner Island, and Wiay. In addition, there is a fourth island that’s actually accessible by foot from the mainland of Skye, but only at low tide.

Great Langdale, Lake District, Autumn

Wed, 25 Nov 2020 20:03:31 +0000

Let’s take a break from my recent run of Isle of Skye images.

Do you know what one of my favourite areas in the Lake District is? It’s Great Langdale.

Trotternish Coast, Isle of Skye, Autumn

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 20:17:27 +0000

For obvious reasons most people focus on the Storr or the Quiraing when it comes to the Isle of Skye’s Trotternish Peninsula.

But there is so much more to see.

Sligachan, Isle of Skye, Autumn

Sun, 15 Nov 2020 15:11:16 +0000

One of my favourite places on Skye is Sligachan.

It’s also a source of frustration for me.

At Sligachan one is offered an incredible view of the northern jagged peaks of the Black Cuillins mountain range, particularly the peaks named Sgùrr nan Gilean (966 m/3,170 ft) and Sgùrr a’ Bhàsteir (900 m/2, 953 ft). Every time I’ve been to Skye I’ve tried navigating the various rivers and becks that stream off the northern faces of the Black Cuillins, looking for compositions.

Camasunary, Isle of Skye, Autumn

Sun, 08 Nov 2020 10:57:29 +0000

As well as revisiting old favourites of ours on Skye, we also wanted to check out unfamiliar territory across the island.

A new, to us, hike we bookmarked was located on the Strathaird peninsula of Skye, perhaps more widely accessed for getting to Elgol. We did revisit Elgol again, but on the way back we stopped at a parking layby near Kirkibost for a hike up and over the Strathaird peninsula towards an isolated little bay called Camasunary.

Staffin, Isle of Skye, Autumn

Fri, 06 Nov 2020 19:43:39 +0000

When you think of Skye, do you think of dinosaur fossils?

Probably not.

Much like Cornwall’s famed Jurassic Coast, Skye has its own version at An Corran beach, Staffin, on the Trotternish Peninsula.

Quiraing, Isle of Skye, Autumn

Mon, 26 Oct 2020 22:07:42 +0000

Alongside the Storr, the Quiraing is one of those places on Skye that ignites your imagination and takes your breath away.

Much like the Storr, the Quiraing is part of the Trotternish landslip, the longest such feature in the British Isles. Whilst the Storr marks the highest point of the Trotternish landslip, the Quiraing marks the northernmost summit at Meall na Suiramach (543 m/1,781 ft). The Quiraing is also, unlike the Storr, still slipping; apparently the road at the bottom of the Quiraing near Flodigarry requires repair every year as the land continues to move.

Glen Brittle, Isle of Skye, Autumn

Sat, 24 Oct 2020 14:57:13 +0000

Skye has one or two “hotspots” that are perhaps vastly more popular for visitors than other areas around the island. The Storr might be considered one of those hotspots.

Elgol, Isle of Skye, Autumn

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 20:28:18 +0000

There’s something truly magical about the Elgol coast on Skye.

Firstly there’s the frankly ridiculous view you’re treated to as you descend the narrow winding road to the shore, which arguably is what makes most people fall in love with Elgol. I know that’s what it did to me, back in 2013, when I first explored this tiny coastal village.

The Storr, Isle of Skye, Autumn

Sun, 18 Oct 2020 15:08:04 +0000

Hello, readers! It’s been a while.

We’ve just returned from a fortnight around my favourite place on this earth: the Isle of Skye, Scotland.

This is the fourth time we’ve been to the island now; the last time was in 2019 (last year), which was an… interesting time for us as I was diagnosed and then hospitalised with Type II Diabetes.

Tarn Hows, Lake District, Autumn

Sun, 27 Sep 2020 14:42:20 +0000

Our new jam is sunrise hikes.

After summiting Loughrigg Fell as the sun rose up last weekend, we ventured out for another sunrise hike. This time we started from Yew Tree Tarn near Coniston, and hiked up through the woods in a ravine called Glen Mary to find a delightful succession of waterfalls called the Tom Gill falls. Following the gill, you eventually pop out at Tarn Hows, where we were greeted with crystal-clear reflections and the sun rising up above the surrounding fells.

Stenkrith Park, Cumbria, Autumn

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 18:25:42 +0000

The River Eden has carved out some wonderful geology.

If you’re a frequent visitor of my website (hello!) you’ll have read me writing about the River Eden’s geology specifically around Mallerstang and Wetheral.

Loughrigg, Lake District, Autumn

Sat, 19 Sep 2020 16:07:02 +0000

There are several Wainwrights—that is, Lake District peaks written about in Alfred Wainwright’s seven-volume Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells—that are considered key or “core” Wainwrights.

Saltaire, West Yorkshire, Autumn

Thu, 10 Sep 2020 19:44:53 +0000

Building a business was very different in the Victorian era.

In 1850 a Titus Salt sought to build a textile mill big enough to consolidate all the textile manufacturing processes in one place. His competitors were running a variety of mills in Bradford and Salt did not approve of the appalling working conditions, unsafe practices, and level of pollution in the city.

Mallerstang, Yorkshire Dales, Autumn

Mon, 07 Sep 2020 18:30:20 +0000

One of my favourite things to do is to show my Dad new places to hike and photograph.

So on Sunday my Dad came down to visit and we headed out to Mallerstang—perhaps my favourite Yorkshire Dales valley—for a hike full of vistas, beautiful light, and pretty waterfalls.

Shibden Hall, West Yorkshire, Autumn

Sat, 05 Sep 2020 14:35:21 +0000

There are some seriously old buildings in Britain.

We didn’t have an exact itinerary for our recent mini-break but we were given a strong recommendation—by my employer—to check out Shibden Hall, just outside Halifax in West Yorkshire.

Teesdale Waterfalls, North Pennines, Autumn

Tue, 01 Sep 2020 20:12:31 +0000

On the final day of our mini-break we decided to enjoy a proper good hike around Upper Teesdale.

We’ve been to Upper Teesdale a few times before, mostly for quick excursions to the epic High Force waterfall. But now we’re fitter and healthier, we felt capable of more, so we parked at the Bowlees Visitor Centre and took in lots of waterfalls around Upper Teesdale.

Watlowes Dry Valley, Yorkshire Dales, Summer/Autumn

Sat, 29 Aug 2020 18:41:00 +0000

We finally got a week off.

The pandemic, and its subsequent lockdown, has been pretty intense for me and Lisabet. I took on extra roles and responsibilities, with less available work time, and Lisabet’s job changed fundamentally. And we continued working throughout the lockdown.

Colwith Force, Lake District, Summer/Autumn

Sun, 23 Aug 2020 16:54:10 +0000

The sweltering heat of July is giving way to the rain and thunder of August.

A lot of this week—especially in Cumbria—has consisted of heavy downpours, with some lightning thrown in for good measure. This has made getting out for some solid hiking rather difficult.

Settle, Yorkshire Dales, Summer

Sun, 16 Aug 2020 14:59:44 +0000

I do have a strong affinity for Settle.

There’s not many other places I’d rather live in; I consider myself, on a daily basis, to be very fortunate to live in Kendal as it is. But if I had to live somewhere else, Settle would definitely be a top contender.

Kendal Castle, Cumbria, Summer

Fri, 14 Aug 2020 20:30:04 +0000

A-Level results for 2020 have been released.

You can read the news if you like about all the controversy regarding this year’s A-Levels, especially due to the global COVID-19 pandemic. The news tires me, personally. I was more interested in seeing my town come alive with mid-late teens celebrating and commiserating in equal measure.

Wetheral, Cumbria, Summer

Sun, 09 Aug 2020 12:03:21 +0000

The heatwaves have returned.

After a pretty damp July, at least in Cumbria, we’ve recently experienced temperatures approaching 30°C. Lisabet and I decided to take advantage of this Glorious Return Of Summer by paying my Dad another visit.

Ashgill Force, North Pennines, Summer

Sun, 02 Aug 2020 18:47:01 +0000

With the easing of lockdown restrictions in the UK, it’s my experience that tourism in the UK has never been busier. It’s likely a result of a declining aviation industry and the extra hassle involved in holidaying abroad.

Kentmere, Lake District, Summer

Thu, 30 Jul 2020 20:33:09 +0000

We seem to be going through a session of revisiting hikes we’ve not been on in years.

Straight after work one afternoon Lisabet and I had planned on a hike perhaps up to Hayeswater from Hartsop, or into Deepdale to gawp at Greenhow End. But not long after setting off we consulted SaferLakes.co.uk and found that most of the parking around Glenridding and Patterdale was labelled as Busy. We quickly changed plans. Why not jump off the A591 now, head through Staveley and arrive at Kentmere for a walk around this gorgeous and quiet valley?

Catrigg Force, Yorkshire Dales, Summer

Sun, 26 Jul 2020 12:58:51 +0000

With all the rain falling in the North of England at the moment, it seems a good opportunity to revisit some of our favourite waterfalls.

As I’ve mentioned elsewhere, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to waterfalls in the Yorkshire Dales. In fact, the Yorkshire Dales is home to the highest unbroken-drop waterfall in England, Gaping Gill (if you count the fact that it drops 322 ft into an underground cavern). If you want above-ground only, then the claim is held by Hardraw Force also in the Yorkshire Dales, a single drop of 100 ft.

High Cup Nick, North Pennines, Summer

Sun, 19 Jul 2020 20:48:21 +0000

The last time we hiked up High Cup Nick (trying that saying three times fast) was back in August 2013.

Back then I was recovering from a recent mental breakdown.

Swaledale, Yorkshire Dales, Summer

Mon, 13 Jul 2020 17:53:13 +0000

Swaledale is one the northernmost and remote dales of the Yorkshire Dales.

The last time we visited the valley was back in May 2016, and we only really drove through the valley. In terms of actual hiking you’d have to go back to April 2014, the last time we hiked around Swaledale. Even then, we only did a small walk from the village of Keld to Crackpot Hall and back, just under 2 miles all in all.

Fujifilm Color Chrome Effect: How To Recreate In Affinity Photo

Sat, 04 Jul 2020 16:48:29 +0000

Back in 2017, camera nerds (myself included) were very excited by the arrival of Fujifilm’s first digital medium format mirrorless camera: the Fujifilm GFX 50S.

It featured a sensor 1.7x larger than your usual full-frame 35mm digital camera sensor, in a small body, and promised incredible resolution and that oft-desired “medium format look”. And all for considerably less money than the, at the time, current crop of digital medium format cameras.

Stock Ghyll Force, Lake District, Summer

Thu, 02 Jul 2020 18:16:07 +0000

We’re doing lots of rain dodging at the moment.

But that’s OK, because lots of rain means thunderous waterfalls.

Lisabet and I decided to head straight out after work for a hike around Stock Ghyll Force in Ambleside, before the rain arrived. We timed it well. Five minutes after getting back in the car to head home, the heavens opened and our car was washed.

Aira Force, Lake District, Summer

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 21:51:17 +0000

The weekend has been very wet.

The Met Office have stated that, between 10:00am Sunday 28/6/20 and 10:00am Monday 29/6/20, Honister Pass recorded 212.8 mm of rain, “provisionally a new UK June daily rainfall record”.

Orrest Head, Lake District, Summer

Wed, 24 Jun 2020 21:28:51 +0000

In 1930, at the age of 23, a young Alfred Wainwright from Blackburn, Lancashire arrived at Windermere Railway Station, Westmorland, and hiked up the nearby small fell known as Orrest Head (238m/783 feet).

Elterwater, Lake District, Summer

Thu, 18 Jun 2020 16:26:26 +0000

After a seriously dry and hot April/May—as noted by the MetOffice—June has proved to be more tropical and, well, wet.

In the last week or so we’ve had mid-20°C heat combined with thunder and lightning (very very frightening), and heavy downpours of rain.

High Sweden Bridge, Lake District, Summer

Sun, 07 Jun 2020 20:01:32 +0000

Lockdown restriction continue to relax in the UK.

From Monday June 15th non-essential businesses can reopen to the public once again, as long as they follow social distancing guidelines. Some of the bigger companies have already started opening up again.

Part 2: Lancaster Canal’s “Northern Reaches”, Cumbria, Spring

Tue, 02 Jun 2020 15:45:56 +0000

The final stretch of Lancaster Canal.

In case you haven’t seen it you should check out my first photo blog about the Lancaster Canal, which contains the history of this iconic and important canal system.

Lancaster Canal’s “Northern Reaches”, Cumbria, Spring

Sun, 31 May 2020 13:03:38 +0000

Over the years I’ve learned that the UK’s canal system is fascinating.

Built primarily as a means to quicky transport raw materials and goods between major manufacturing towns and cities, these days the UK’s canals are largely used for leisure and tourism purposes.

Mallerstang, Yorkshire Dales, Spring

Fri, 29 May 2020 21:25:36 +0000

It’s getting hot in here.

The MetOffice confirmed that Spring 2020 has been the sunniest UK spring on record. By 27th May, Spring in the UK had already recorded 573 hours of sunshine, beating the previous record set in 1948 of 555.3 hours.

Silverdale, Lancashire, Spring

Wed, 27 May 2020 18:58:27 +0000

Our native Cumbria isn’t really known for any extraordinary areas of coastline, save for the St. Bees area.

However, if you were to venture just south of border beyond Arnside you’ll enter a gorgeous Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). This is Silverdale, a coastal area of salt marshes, estuaries, Morecambe Bay, and low limestone coastal hills.

Barbondale, Yorkshire Dales, Spring

Mon, 25 May 2020 22:20:53 +0000

Barbondale holds a special place in our heart.

Lisabet spent many a time in her childhood playing in this valley with her family. It’s also the place where Lisabet’s grandfather’s ashes were scattered.

Brothers Water, Lake District, Spring

Sun, 24 May 2020 21:58:48 +0000

Brotherswater is one of those Minimum Effort/Maximum Reward places.

There’s a small car park and then five minutes walk along the river you reach this expansive view of the Dodds of Patterdale above Brotherswater. It’s quite a wondrous place.

Tarn Hows, Lake District, Spring

Thu, 21 May 2020 17:21:44 +0000

The weather’s been a bit strange.

April 2020 was the 3rd driest April for Northern England since UK records began (which was 1854). So the landscape is looking pretty parched and in need of a good soaking.

Foulshaw Moss, Lake District, Spring

Mon, 18 May 2020 18:40:52 +0000

A few days after my 36th birthday, back in 2019, my Dad came up to stay with us (he wasn’t living in Cumbria at the time). One of the places we explored with him was Foulshaw Moss, a raised bog just south of the imposing Whitbarrow Scar. We explored the area and took photos; at the time, I was mainly shooting on my Google Pixel 3XL with a shiny new Moment 18mm Wide v2 lens I’d got for my birthday.

Lower Borrowdale, Lake District, Spring

Sat, 16 May 2020 21:49:26 +0000

I mostly shot this photograph for the trees on the fell. To me it looks like some ancient woodland god has scribbled her signature across the fell and trees have sprouted in the wake of her pen.

Pandemic Peregrinations: Castle Hill, Kendal, Cumbria, Spring

Tue, 12 May 2020 21:53:45 +0000

The UK Lockdown has changed.

On Sunday 10th May 2020 the Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced, amongst many things, that there would no longer be travel restrictions for the purposes of exercise. Until now outdoor exercise during the Lockdown was limited to your immediate surroundings.

Pandemic Peregrinations: Hawes Bridge, Prizet, Cumbria, Spring

Sat, 09 May 2020 20:43:40 +0000

Today it hit 21°C in Kendal. This is where it starts to get sort of uncomfortable for me and Lisabet.

We’re both very much into cool and blustery conditions (by the sea in Lisabet’s case, in the mountains for me). Nevertheless, today we took our Government Permitted Outdoor Exercise to Hawes Bridge, our new local favourite. The gorge is now looking extremely lush, especially when you compare it to the first time we visited the area, less than 2 months ago.

Pandemic Peregrinations: Stainbank Green, Kendal, Cumbria, Spring

Fri, 08 May 2020 19:32:36 +0000

Happy 75th Anniversary of VE Day, that is, “Victory In Europe” Day, when the Allies triumphed over the fascist Nazis. Never forget the sacrifice of those who fought to retain our freedoms and liberties over authoritarian fascists.

Pandemic Peregrinations: Helsfell Nab, Kendal, Cumbria, Spring

Mon, 04 May 2020 21:35:55 +0000

Today’s Government Permitted Outdoor Exercise was somewhat shorter, but no less enjoyable.

One of our favourite local hikes we’ve enjoyed since the UK Coronavirus Lockdown has been a circuit up to Helsfell Nab and back, with Serpentine Woods along the way. With the woods looking more lush everyday, and the scenery growing vibrant and brighter, this simple hike really does make you feel very grateful.

Pandemic Peregrinations: Unnamed Woods, Kendal, Cumbria, Spring

Sat, 02 May 2020 21:24:24 +0000

After a week where the spring rain finally arrived, it was good to get out and enjoy a warmer day, with a clear atmosphere, and gorgeous light.

Pandemic Peregrinations: My Birthday On The Scar, Cumbria, Spring

Sat, 25 Apr 2020 19:43:40 +0000

The limestone ridges on the cliff face of Scout Scar.

Today is my 37th birthday.

Pandemic Peregrinations: Cunswick Tarn, Cumbria, Spring

Sat, 18 Apr 2020 17:07:40 +0000

Cunswick Hall. What you see has been standing since its modernisation in the 1800s, but there aspects of the property still remaining from the 1500s, including a window which is said to contain the oldest glass in Westmorland. Historically the manor belonged to the Leyburn family.

Pandemic Peregrinations: Scout Scar, Cumbria, Spring

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 20:03:43 +0000

The limestone cliff of Scout Scar, which suddenly drops 100 ft or so down into the Lyth Valley.

Pandemic Peregrinations: Bird's Park Reservoir, Cumbria, Spring

Sat, 11 Apr 2020 20:26:12 +0000

The weather’s really been glorious in the last week or so. Thankfully, it’s made our daily One Government Sanctioned Outdoor Exercise Session Per Day a lot more pleasant.

Pandemic Peregrinations: Fisher Tarn, Cumbria, Spring

Sun, 05 Apr 2020 16:38:08 +0000

The weather was warmer and brighter today, so on our Government Allotted Outdoor Exercise period we ventured up Park Side Road, passed Castle Green Hotel, through Singleton Park, and onwards towards Fisher Tarn Reservoir.

Pandemic Peregrinations: Kendal Castle, Cumbria, Spring

Sat, 04 Apr 2020 21:18:49 +0000

It’s so easy to become lethargic when you’re having to spend most of your time in lockdown in your house.

Activity breeds energy. The opposite is also true.

Pandemic Peregrinations: Cunswick Fell, Cumbria, Spring

Sat, 28 Mar 2020 18:56:22 +0000

My Lisabet, navigating through a narrow stile in the wall. The yellow fell in the distance on the right is Cunswick Fell, with the jagged peaks in the distance being the Lake District fells.

Isolation: Natland, Cumbria, Spring 2020

Sat, 21 Mar 2020 22:53:38 +0000

This is the point where the wide and lazy River Kent drastically narrows into a limestone gorge. The colour of the water was mesmerising.

Brecon Beacons, South Wales: Autumn Series

Thu, 12 Mar 2020 19:47:05 +0000

Sgwd Gwladys (pronounced “Sgood Goo-LAD-us”, meaning “the Lady Falls”), found on the Elidir Trail in the Waterfall Country of the Brecon Beacons National Park, South Wales.

Whinlatter Forest & The West Coast, Cumbria: Winter

Sat, 22 Feb 2020 13:09:40 +0000

Golden sunset light. River channels cut through the beach and drain into the sea. St. Bees Head remains steadfast.

Buttermere & Newlands, Lake District: A Winter Series

Fri, 14 Feb 2020 21:46:15 +0000

A burst of light breaks through the overcast sky, picking out the details on High Crag’s (744 m/2,441 ft) shoulder.

Wasdale & Wastwater, Lake District: A Winter Series

Sat, 08 Feb 2020 16:25:00 +0000

A famous Wasdale peak, Yewbarrow (628 m/2,060 ft), with the only road going in and out of the valley curling its way towards the fell’s foot.

Staffin, Isle of Skye, Scotland: A Trio

Wed, 29 Jan 2020 20:05:44 +0000

A small trio of images from around Staffin on the Isle of Skye, Scotland. Specifically, these photos were taken from a small chunk of coastline east of Staffin village called An Corran, which became rather well-known from 2002 onwards for the Jurassic-era dinosaur footprints discovered there.

Armadale, Sleat Peninsula, Isle of Skye, Scotland

Sat, 25 Jan 2020 23:44:33 +0000

Even though we’ve been to Skye a few times now, we’d never actually explored the Sleat peninsula of southern Skye until recently.

See more beautiful photos of the Isle of Skye, Scotland.

Hull Pot, Yorkshire Dales, England

Sat, 18 Jan 2020 22:13:18 +0000

After two weeks of illness kicking both me and Lisabet hard in the dick, it was nice to have a weekend where we were both well and the weather looked good.

A Car Drive Around The Dales

Sun, 12 Jan 2020 19:15:56 +0000

I’ve been sick since Thursday this week.

It’s not very often that I’m stricken down with the Common Cold but it’s happened this year and has knocked me for six.

Patterdale, The Lake District

Sat, 04 Jan 2020 19:30:44 +0000

Today wasn’t forecast to be all that nice in terms of weather, but the best chances were said to be more towards the Eastern Fells.

Scout Scar, Lake District, England

Wed, 01 Jan 2020 15:52:11 +0000

Lisabet and I saw out the last light of 2019 on top of one of our places: Scout Scar, in the Lake District.

It’s the place where I first experienced the joy of the Lake District, and where Lisabet and I first hung out. Back then, I was very much in the thrall of shooting and editing HDR photography à la Trey Ratcliff. These days, my Eye has got better (even if one of my actual eyes has physically deteriorated), and my taste has developed.

Christmas Wanderings

Fri, 27 Dec 2019 18:45:47 +0000

How was your Christmas? I enjoyed a wonderfully chilled and wholesome Christmas with my Dad and Lisabet, at Dad’s farm cottage in the middle of nowhere.

Dentdale, Yorkshire Dales, England

Sun, 22 Dec 2019 18:36:02 +0000

A week ago, in the Yorkshire Dales, we experienced a winter fairytale. Today, all the snow has gone. The air is damp and drizzly, everything is wet, and the fells are cloaked in swirling clouds.

Elgol, Isle of Skye, Scotland

Sat, 21 Dec 2019 13:52:12 +0000

A trio of compositions from probably my favourite place on the Isle of Skye: Elgol. Once you get down to the village’s seashore, your view north gives you almost unparalleled views of the Black Cuillins of Skye. More interesting coast awaits as you hike north, navigating a beach covered in rugby-ball boulders until you arrive at a fantasy-like shore of jenga-like rock stacks, raised geometric platforms, and weather-beaten slopes and scree.

It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like...

Sun, 15 Dec 2019 19:28:10 +0000

Finally, snow arrives for winter 2019. Lisabet and I drove up to Ribblehead Viaduct for a gentle waddle in the snow and some photography. Lovely light and conditions, too.

Warkworth Castle, Northumberland

Sat, 14 Dec 2019 14:53:59 +0000

The ruins of Warkworth Castle in Warkworth, Northumberland. Built 800–900 years ago and still remarkably complete. All shots taken with my Google Pixel 3XL and a Moment Wide v2 lens.

The Quiraing Of Skye: A Series

Thu, 05 Dec 2019 20:00:18 +0000

The Quiraing of the Isle of Skye, Scotland. Just an otherworldly place. Shot with my Fujifilm X-T2 using a Samyang 12mm ƒ/2.0 lens.

The Clarity of Winter

Mon, 02 Dec 2019 20:22:05 +0000

Viaduct Country

Sun, 17 Nov 2019 17:07:41 +0000

Going For A Paddle

Sun, 10 Nov 2019 21:25:21 +0000

Two Weeks On Skye

Tue, 03 Sep 2019 19:12:11 +0000

“Britain’s Patagonia” by Ian Cylkowski. A view towards the Black Cuillins from the Allt Dearg Mór . Photographed in 2014.

The Peace Of Time

Sat, 17 Aug 2019 20:18:21 +0000

Revisit, Remember, Relearn

Sun, 04 Aug 2019 14:14:43 +0000

The Sea Takes Bites Out Of The Land

Thu, 01 Aug 2019 19:45:29 +0000

The Island of Colourful Rocks

Sat, 27 Jul 2019 21:49:00 +0000

Loch Lomond & the Trossachs: No More Driving Past

Sun, 10 Mar 2019 15:35:08 +0000

“Hikers near Ben A’an summit” by Pampuco, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

“Devils Pulpit 5” by G_Mcfadden, licensed CC BY-NC 2.0.

“The Cobbler / Ben Arthur” by Dr. Nils Wiese, licensed CC BY-NC 2.0.

“Falls of Falloch” by August Schwerdfeger, licensed CC BY 4.0.

Hiking and Photography in South Wales

Sun, 16 Sep 2018 09:57:34 +0000