Photography

A rainy day in York

A white rose of York on Lendal Bridge

It was a rainy day in York and the River Ouse was swamp brown and near to bursting its banks. Was I downhearted? Not at all! I was on my way to a cosy rendezvous with my daughter and her partner, in Betty’s famous tea shop.

I don’t drink tea and the smell of it has been known to make me wrinkle my nose in disgust, but I soon had a small pot of coffee wafting soothing vapours at me.

Coffee a la Betty’s!

Lisa and Leo had been spending a few days in York to celebrate their 1st wedding anniversary and were homeward bound. Just time for me to catch up with them for a breakfast brunch to send them on their way. I know that some of you are interested in such things so here’s the evidence.

Complete with Swiss rosti!

While Lisa was studying the menu I couldn’t help but point the camera in her direction. “Oh, Mother!” I can’t help exasperating my offspring. Or of being very proud of them.

Contemplating food!

Remember that “selfie” challenge last week? The above was almost an entry. Only fair that Leo (who hates having his photo taken) should appear alongside his lovely wife. I got the photo shoot out of the way before they settled down to eat.

The happy couple

A close up of the wedding and engagement rings, made by her friend Kay

A close up of the wedding and engagement rings, made by their friend Kay

Refined, resplendent and reserved- that’s us!

We sat and talked about what they’d seen and done for a couple of hours. Fairfax House got full marks. The Quilt Museum was pronounced a little expensive unless you were a real enthusiast, but Lisa enjoyed it. Places they’d eaten and highly recommended included the Hairy Fig and La Vecchia Scuola, whilst the House of the Trembling Madness sounded right up their street! By this time they agreed that they had just enough space to share one of Betty’s delectable cakes.

This was Lisa’s choice and it looked delicious!

All too soon it was time to walk them back to their hotel, Elmbank Mount. Undergoing renovation, it still retains much of its original splendour, and Lisa was very happy that they’d been allocated a four poster bed. One last smile and a hug and they were on their way. I wandered disconsolately through the damp York streets, taking a photo or two.

Not a day for sitting by the riverside!

The riverboats huddled together for comfort

The riverboats were going nowhere

Huddled together for comfort and warmth

A dank day but the lions remained cheerful

A dank day for the lions, too

I made my way back to the railway station with time to spare. Feeling distinctly damp, I ventured into “The York Tap”, adjoining the station, and was delighted to find a warm fire. I stripped off my soggy gloves and settled in for half hour to enjoy my surrounds.

Nothing like a coal fire to dispel the blues!

And the ceilings provided another colourful touch

And the ceilings provided a wonderful burst of colour.

My gloomy spirits lifting, I stepped out onto the platform to discover that the sun had finally made an appearance. It was time to head for home.

Six word Saturday

One hundred Six word Saturday posts!

Shall we celebrate with cake?

I first joined this challenge on 7th January, 2012. I had only been blogging for a couple of months and didn’t really have a clue what I was doing. I simply knew that I wanted to write about travel, and that I needed to extend my readership. I loved playing with words, too, and the challenge gave me that opportunity.

Two years later, and where am I? Well, I’ve travelled all right. Remember Barcelona, or even Porto?

Was there ever a stranger landscape? I loved Gaudi’s Barcelona

A very special city for me, Porto

I’ve taken you with me many times to my lovely Tavira, and to Poland to meet the family. We’ve wandered around the streets, stately homes and cliff tops of England (and over the border to Edinburgh, too) We’ve made some strange discoveries together. Remember Saltburn-by-the-Sea?

Knitted mermaid on the pier at Saltburn-by-the-Sea

And, of course, you’ve met my lovely daughter and been introduced to the concept of Steampunk. Those cakes in the header were consumed in her presence (no, not ALL of them!)

Lisa in the teacup fascinator she made.

In the course of my journey I’ve met some wonderful people. I’ve learned a little about all kinds of subjects. So many of you are good at crafts! My lovely friend Viv has taught me to appreciate poetry, and provided me with cheerful company at Northumberlandia on a bitterly cold day. And along the way I seem to have picked up an obsession with photography.

A Monkey Puzzle tree in close-up, from my “Green” series

I must have done a few things right because this morning my number of “followers” topped 2000! What can I say except thank you very much to each and every one of you who has liked or commented on one of my posts.

Since joining Six word Saturday I have contributed every week, unless I have been abroad. I’m well aware that my direction has changed since the beginning, and that 6WS may not be the best vehicle for what I like to do. I have to thank Cate at Show My Face for her tolerance in allowing me to push the boundaries of six words. You could say “gentle manipulation”? I hope you’ve all enjoyed my company as much as I’ve enjoyed yours. If you’d like to see where two years has taken me, click on my Six word Saturday page.

A Lingering look at Windows: week 7

A hint of mystery and the exotic behind these doors

I’m sure you can’t begin to guess where I was lingering this week? Does Preston Park Museum ring any bells? I thought I might do the Winter Garden and the Victorian Street separately- you know, big finale!- but I didn’t want you tiring of the subject. So we’ll just take a quick peep in the conservatory before moving swiftly on.

Orchids are beautiful, aren’t they?

There weren’t any comfy seat pads on the chairs and the doors were firmly closed, so I took the hint and kept walking. And this was my reward!

A toy shop window to press my nose up against

So I did! Sorry- I know some of you don’t like Pierrots, but he was loveable.

Maybe chocolate is more your thing?

Or objects d’art?

No shortage of those!

I do know one or two of you who don't mind sweets!

I do know one or two of you who don’t mind a sweet treat!

Remember any of these?

A few of the shops don’t qualify for this post. The blacksmith didn’t have a window, as such- just lots of tools. I wandered into the printers and a very nice young lady was setting up the press to print some cards. She was well bundled up against the cold, as she needed to be with the door wide open. I couldn’t photograph her cheerful smile as it was a little dark in there.

But I did find an ironmonger, for the practical ones among you

And a photographer, for the family portaits

And a photographer, for the family portraits

This was my very favourite! Apologies for the poor quality of the photo

This was my very favourite shop! Apologies for the terrible quality of the photo.

I know what some of you are waiting for. I saw this sign but couldn’t find anywhere to buy an alcoholic drink, though I looked very hard.

Promises! Promises!

So it had to be the tea rooms and the “temperance drinks”

But you know what I forgot to take a photo of? The Victorian sponge sandwich on the counter. You’ll just have to take my word for it that it was very nice. Just in case you’ve missed any of my Preston Park Museum posts, you can find them here, and here, and here. Understatement- that’s what I’m going for!

Meanwhile I wonder what kind of windows everyone else is showcasing this week. Find them at Dawn’s The Day After. I believe she’s gone all romantic this week.

A little something extra

A theatre in miniature

I don’t suppose you were expecting this, and neither was I really! My visit to Preston Park Museum was a series of lovely surprises. I turned a corner to be greeted by a sign demanding CREATE! Well, it’s not one of my strong suites, but I was quite happy to look.

Apparently Cleveland College of Art and Design had done some work for the reopening of the museum, and examples of this are on display. A theatre made of cardboard cut outs was the chief exhibit. My photos don’t do it justice but I thought it was enchanting.

The leading lady?

Supporting act!

The full ensemble

Aside from the theatre, there was costume, millinery and pure quirkiness on show. Creative, for sure. It made me want to see more of the students work.

Feathers and curls!

The devil is in the detail?

The peerless sharpshooter with the longest legs! (and his strange sidekick)

Immaculately attired

with devilishly cunning detail!

And lastly, six costumes designed for the Victorian Street.

Appropriately dressed for a trip to the Ironmongers

If you saw Gracious living, Victorian style earlier this week you’ll know how much I loved the museum. My next destination will be the Victorian Street. Hopefully it won’t disappoint. I’ve already been asked if there will be cake. What self-respecting Victorian Street doesn’t have cake?

Gracious living, Victorian style

Your genial host, Robert Ropner

It’s always nice to be made welcome and Preston Park Museum does this with real warmth and imagination. There’s even a welcoming speech, delivered by our host, glass in hand.

Built in 1825, Preston Hall was purchased by wealthy shipping magnate Robert Ropner in 1882. Major alterations added a grand entrance porch and Winter Garden, ballroom and billiards room, the whole enclosed in beautifully landscaped gardens, befitting his social status. Ropner served as Conservative MP for Stockton from 1900-1910. Life was exceedingly grand and a fleet of servants kept the household running smoothly.

Ropner died, aged 85, in 1924 and the hall and park were subsequently purchased by Stockton Council. Preston Hall Museum opened its doors to the public in 1953. As a small girl I can remember being taken there. The house itself was a warren of rooms, stuffed full of Victorian furniture, and with the addition of a Victorian street.

The entrance porch, Preston Hall

The Winter Garden or conservatory

The Victorian street

The museum was beginning to look a little tired when Stockton Council acquired funding for a massive renovation. In 2012 there was a grand reopening. I wasn’t at all sure what I would find.

But I found myself immensely impressed. The house was light and bright, with beautifully showcased and hugely varied exhibits. Here are just a few of my favourites.

Fabulous pottery

Beautiful glassware

Exquisite fabrics and jewellery

Exotic sword guards

Delicate cameos

Remember the snuff box from Six word Saturday? Here’s another!

Touches of humour illuminate the commentary as you walk through the house, nor are they the only source of illumination.

This stained glass is from a former Methodist church in Stockton

There is so much that I could share, but I don’t want to spoil it for you, in case you ever go there. It’s like a Pandora’s Box of Victoriana, with each room a new delight as you wind up through the house. There’s a nod to shipping, on which Ropner built his fortune. A local cabinet maker’s craft is showcased. Even some worn but lovely Victorian scrapbooks are there. I’d quite forgotten the art!

A lovely fireplace

A delicate cup and inkwell

A Victorian bath and shower

A scary fireplace!

The symbol of Stockton-on Tees

A Victorian scrapbook

And the longest wooden paddle steamer!

Naturally our railway heritage is celebrated. This is the home of steam, and a famous journey took place locally on 27th September, 1825.

Overall I felt really proud of our accomplishments here in the north east of England. Afterwards I took myself for a stroll in the grounds and down to the River Tees.

I loved the reflections in the water and that hint of blue sky

The aviary used to be full of birds, all mysteriously flown!

Then I watched a remote control aeroplane for a while- can you spot it?

This post is a follow up to my Six word Saturday and I’m afraid the subject isn’t quite closed yet. The Victorian Street will have to be a subject for another day. Then there’s the Butterfly House, which doesn’t open until March. You will come back, won’t you?

I almost forgot to say that admission to the museum costs just £2 (£1 if you’re a concession!) and includes return visits for a full year. How about that for value?

Six word Saturday

The case of the disappearing train!

Full steam ahead!

Or simply a bookcase?

During the week I’m going to take you to a wonderful museum at Preston Park, in North Yorkshire. Because it’s Saturday and I only have six words to describe it (smile!), I’ll just give you a little taster, like the Header above.

A perfect way to tell the time!

Snuff anybody? No thanks, but the case is stunning.

Snuff anybody? No thanks, but isn’t the case stunning?

And of course, there are costumes.

As I walked into the museum I looked at a “faux” bookcase- or so I thought! I’d just turned away to the cabinets when, with a mighty roar, the steam train came clanking through. Then disappeared just as suddenly, and all was still.

Yes, I’m still playing with Headers, but have rejected the “Random” option. I like a little more control over how I look! “Menus” aren’t much of an option either, as I’m only allowed one with this theme.

Do join us at Six word Saturday! There’s always something going on, and Cate at Show My Face will be most happy to receive you. Just click on the link or the logos.

More fun with windows!

The morning looked promising through my front window

Which was good, because I planned to travel up to Durham on the bus, to meet a friend for coffee. After a brisk 20 minute walk, I was on board.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

My friend lives in the “New Inn” and works in Durham City, which has a goodly selection of coffee shops. Unfortunately we have to cram all our news into her lunch hour, but it does leave me time to wander with the camera. And you know how I love to do that.

I managed to capture a few windows, and their reflection in the River Wear

That way I can claim double the amount of windows!

Time for a little gentle window shopping too

Especially when I can find quirky ones, like this!

I had intended to take a few more bus window shots on the way home. Well, I was just getting in the groove! But the bus windows were so filthy I could barely see out. Perhaps it’s just as well.
I can’t seem to get out of the habit of of taking a Lingering look at Windows. How about you? I know Dawn loves them. Are you joining her this week?

From a bridge, to a barrage.

The bridge at the Whitewater Rafting Centre

If you saw my entry for the Weekly Photo Challenge this week, you might just have wondered what you would find if you crossed over that bridge. Come with me, and I’ll satisfy your curiosity.

You may remember that we started with this remarkable bridge

You may remember , I started with this remarkable bridge

The Infinity Bridge was constructed across the River Tees, at a cost of £15 million, and opened on 14th May 2009. It was part of a massive regeneration project linking the river banks and providing a very pleasant environment for walking and cycling. Full details are in the enclosed Wikipedia link, but a rather special feature is the sensory lighting system, which illuminates the bridge at night. I have yet to play with this!

Footpaths stretch along both banks, leading in one direction to the town of Stockton. The opposite direction leads to the Tees Barrage and eventually out to sea. It can be quite an interesting bit of shoreline. The Tees Barrage is used to control the flow of the river and to prevent flooding. The waters beyond the barrage are permanently held at the level of an average high tide. The Barrage, which opened on 22nd April, 1995, has a design life of 120 years! It also incorporates a white water course, a real crowd pleaser if an event coincides with a sunny day.

The Barrage always attracts the curious

And has many interesting angles

And curves

Like these.

And looking back from the Barrage, what can you see?

The Infinity Bridge, on the skyline, of course

And just look at that blue sky!

Today all is calm on the White Water course

Barely a ripple disturbs the water

But sometimes the Fire Brigade provide a little sport!

If nothing is happening on the white water, you can often find entertainment from the antics of the seals in the River Tees. They seem as interested in the Barrage as are humans. There is also a small nature trail, for a close up on the wildlife. It can be a breezy spot though, so don’t forget to wear your warm jacket. I did!

An object of great beauty

The Infinity Bridge, Stockton-on-Tees

An object that tells a story was what Cheri asked for on the WordPress Weekly Photo Challenge. I hadn’t intended to take part this week but, returning from a flying visit to a retail park this afternoon, I caught a glimpse of one of my favourite bridges, silhouetted against a wonderful sky. “Can we stop for just a minute?” I asked, and was off like a whirlwind, clutching the camera.

The “story” for me is always what is on the opposite shore. I love the “invitation to cross” that a bridge always provides. How about you?

Again

And again!

Have you entered yet? I’m off to read some of the other “stories”.

Six word Saturday

Today I’ve chosen a Header Photo

With a nautical theme, you may notice.

Those offshore windmills will be turning

Those offshore windmills will definitely be turning today

Because it’s bright and breezy (you could substitute the word “cold”)

One of these days I'll take you on the "Monkey trail"

One of these weeks I’ll take you on the “Monkey trail”

More properly known as the “Headland Story Trail”

But it's a little cold for lingering today

But not today- it’s a little cold for lingering.

And much more suited to the calm of the marina

Maybe you remember that last week my Header was a plain, bold black? During the week I’ve tinkered about a bit and come to a few conclusions. In the main, I’m happy with the plain Header, because I usually start my post with a photo, and there’s more impact this way. But for a post like this, where I start with a logo, I think a photo looks better.

This generates its own problems, because the writing on the Header is white, and I cannot change the colour unless I pay to customise it. So, I need to use a fairly dark toned photo for the writing to show up. This limits my choice a little, but I’ve enjoyed playing with the Headers, and I expect you’ll be seeing more. I’ll have to change it with each post or it won’t match, and if you visit another of my posts after this one, that won’t match either! (for anyone missing my old Town Wall header photo, it’s now consigned to my Flickr photos, in the sidebar)

Next week, the problem of Menus and Categories. Do many of you use them? If not, how do you go about finding posts?

As often happens, I’m using my Six word Saturday in a slightly unconventional way. But it’s interesting, isn’t it? Well, I hope you think so. Cate at Show My Face will have lots of variations on the theme, so don’t forget to click on the link or the logo to join in.

restlessjo

Roaming, at home and abroad

Photography

A rainy day in York

Six word Saturday

One hundred Six word Saturday posts!

A Lingering look at Windows: week 7

A little something extra

Gracious living, Victorian style

Six word Saturday

The case of the disappearing train!

More fun with windows!

From a bridge, to a barrage.

An object of great beauty

Six word Saturday

Today I’ve chosen a Header Photo

Share this:javascript:void(0);return false;

One hundred Six word Saturday posts!

Share this:javascript:void(0);return false;

Share this:javascript:void(0);return false;

Share this:javascript:void(0);return false;

Share this:javascript:void(0);return false;

The case of the disappearing train!

Share this:javascript:void(0);return false;

Share this:javascript:void(0);return false;

Share this:javascript:void(0);return false;

Share this:javascript:void(0);return false;

Today I’ve chosen a Header Photo

Share this:javascript:void(0);return false;