Durham

Jo’s Monday walk : Finchale Priory

The ruins of Finchale Priory

My walk this week, much nearer home, takes me along the banks of the River Wear, four miles from the city of Durham. I hear that a heatwave is forecast and you might be glad of a little shade. I was dodging showers on my walk, so the trees proved extremely useful.

The Grade 1 listed ruins of Finchale Priory began life in the 13th century as a Benedictine priory. Today they are managed by English Heritage. The only details I could glean from their page are that the Priory was founded on the site of a retired pirate’s hermitage (!) and was later used as a holiday retreat for monks from Durham Cathedral.

The approach is through peaceful countryside, covered in rapeseed early in the season

The clouds are a little menacing, so we need to be quick!

We might just make it!

St. Godric of Finchale was an English hermit, merchant and medieval saint who was born in Norfolk. After many pilgrimages around the Mediterranean, he spent the last 60 years of his life as a hermit in these idyllic surrounds. To find that same peace and serenity you need to visit out of season, as today a caravan park adjoins the site.

As so often, I turn to Wikipedia for my knowledge. For instance, I had no clear idea what a piscina might be, though I was assured that there was a double one on the south wall. It’s a shallow basin, placed near the altar of a church, used for washing the communion vessels. Hunting through my photos, I discover that I have some evidence.

A double piscina

A view through the ruins

But this is the sight that intrigues me most

I cannot seem to find a reference that explains this ‘chimney’ with a conical point, and I can’t recollect seeing one before. If any of you can help me on this, I’d be grateful. Now, you remember that we are beside the river?

Click on a photo for a closer look

The view from the prior’s study

An inviting bridge crosses the river

The walls are good and thick

But with a strangely shaped door!

For a while the sky is blue

And I can admire the cloud through the many windows

See those right at the back of this shot?

The ruins with the farmhouse/cafe alongside

And a closer look at that ‘chimney’

While the sky is blue I think we should cross over the bridge. Got your brolly, just in case?

Here we go!

The water is shallow in places

But the bridge supports are solid

In places the River Wear flows quite swiftly

Across the bridge, you can look back at the Priory

Looking back, a view of the Priory

Choices next, for a short, circular walk through Cocken Woods. You can climb the steps, rather steeply, or follow the river bank for a short distance and then climb, a little more gently, up through the woods. No contest, really! Just past bluebell season, there was the thickest carpet and a deafening aroma of wild garlic!

A lamb or two

And a bench!

It had to happen! Just about then the skies opened and the rain battered the river. My back pressed close to a tree trunk, I watched the steady tattoo and inhaled deeply. When the rain eased a little, there was just time to cross the bridge and slip quickly inside the cafe.

It was a welcoming space

And I just remembered where I had my last cream scone, Jude!

You’re probably thinking that that’s enough for the day, but I never want to waste an opportunity. Beyond the picnic benches, a path follows the river, on the same shore as the Priory but in the opposite direction. There’s a little climb before it levels out so I won’t make you walk again. Stay here and I’ll just show you a couple of photos.

Beside the river

And looking back at the bridge

Up among the trees

Struck by lightning?

Or simply old?

Just one last look at the Priory, before it’s time to go.

Loving the shapes and the shadows

And one last surprise, beneath the Priory!

I hope you enjoyed my ‘traces of the past’. I’ve included the English Heritage link for directions and opening times, and the other links for history and background. There is a special link too. Many of you will have seen Paula’s traces of the past, in Slovakia. I hope I’m not too late with my offering of Finchale Priory.

One cup of coffee down, two to go?

For any of you not used to my ramblings, can I direct you to my Jo’s Monday walk page or the logo above? It will encourage you to join me. For all you other lovely people, can I just say a huge thanks, both for your support and your wonderful contributions. Please make time to visit the posts below. You won’t regret it!

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Drake’s always a winner- in more ways than one! First with his contribution again last week :

Neighbour-visiting

Back on home turf with Anabel, in Scotland. Do you know this one?

Loch Ardinning

Jude apologised for ‘another flowery walk’. Is she mad? Good old King George V!

Kerdhva Gov Jori V (didn’t know I could speak Cornish- did you?)

You can always rely on Paula to find true beauty, even when she’s sleepy. This is exquisite!

Sing me a lullaby

A guy with a wicked sense of humour, Cardinal’s style is unique :

Fitness and Relax Toilets

I have a cousin in Toronto. Maybe I should pay him a surprise visit one day?

Junkboat Travels: Monday Walks

Will I EVER tire of the beauty of the Grand Canyon? I doubt it!

Walk on a Timeline (One Long Step= 1 Million Years)

I get to sit alongside Paula while Lucile pedals this week! Don’t miss this!

Virtual Bike Ride with Jo and Paula

You can always depend on Debbie for variety! I wonder where next?

A Walk along Berlin’s Landwehrkanal

Laia’s post simply shimmers with colour and beauty (and blue ice!) Another one not to miss!

Fox Glacier and lake Matheson : do not believe in postcards

And while we’re in that part of the world, here’s a fascinating walk in Tasmania, with Ruth :

Waterworks, pipelines and falls

Jaspa keeps on going back to Venice. Well, why wouldn’t you?

The Irresistible Lure of Venice

Lots of shares again this week. I expect you’ve seen a few of them around the blogs, but please make time for any you’ve missed. There are some fabulous contributions. And if you have any spare time, Monday Escapes are acquiring a steady stream of followers. If only I could find more time!

Have a happy week and watch out for that heatwave! See you next Monday?

Six word Saturday

Home in time for the bluebells!

Is anything quite so entrancing as a bluebell wood?

The raindrops glistening in the sunshine

My first walk when I returned home was through the bluebell woods at Durham. I was a little sceptical when I set out. The skies were dreary and rain hung in the air. But by some touch of fairy magic, as we parked the car, the sun burst through. The river sparkled, the sheep munched away happily, and the greatest joy of all – a sea of bluebells as far as the eye could wander.

Dappled shade played over the sign

There’s no sign of the railway these days. Houghall Discovery Trail lies behind the Pumphouse Restaurant and Houghall College, off the A177 road into Durham. The link will give you a lovely bit of background information. The name derives from Heugh-Halh, meaning ‘hill spur- water meadow’. I hadn’t realised the meaning of Heugh (pronounced Hyuff), yet I should have done because over on Hartlepool Headland we have our very own Heugh, or hill spur.

But let’s get back to the bluebells, shall we?

This is probably my favourite shot

I loved the delicate beauty against the bark

A few sheep grazing, behind Houghall College

A stile, of course

And even a bench for Jude (but not for this month’s challenge)

And some leaf patterns on a tree, for Meg

And everywhere, that sumptuous carpet of blue

Speckled with ‘sometime’ white

I could have made this a Jo’s Monday walk, but I’m starting to stockpile my walks. Nice to just share a few bluebells with friends. I hope you have a lovely weekend, and it’s probably not too late to find some bluebells.

But first you should play Six Word Saturday with Cate at Show My Face. See you Monday!

Jo’s Monday walk : a Durham footpath

Interesting reflections

Often I walk with company, and that’s very nice, but occasionally I get to do a bit of wandering on my own- just me and the camera. Nobody tapping their toes impatiently while I explore all the angles- ‘what IS she looking at?’ You might know the feeling. My husband travels quite a lot locally, visiting customers, and sometimes I go along ‘for the ride’. Durham is a favourite place.

The River Wear twines itself through the city, towing me along behind it. My sense of direction is abysmal but, with a river to hold on to, I stand a fighting chance. A bright Autumnal day was just the excuse I needed for an unfettered wander. I’ll let you look over my shoulder, shall I?

The river bank is a little overgrown in places

I’m starting off at Shincliffe Bridge, by “The Rose Tree” pub, on the A177 road, on the outskirts of Durham. There’s a path either side of the bridge and I linger for a while, contemplating which direction to take. I cross over the bridge and am lured by a footpath that I don’t know. It follows the river so there’s a good chance I’ll end up in the centre of Durham.

I don’t get very far when I spot some wildflowers by the path. The sun is strong for October so I spend some time trying to get a shot that I like. I catch curious looks from the occasional jogger. Two ladies, strolling, confirm that I can cross over a bridge further along. Subsidence and falling trees has closed some of the footpath off, but I already knew this.

Sycamore wings

This will have to do!

Or maybe this shot?

It has some paler friends too

A broken tree captures my sympathy

And those flowers again, in white

A peaceful stretch of river

And a ‘pop’ of yellow

After a while I come to the bridge which I must cross over. Now I’m on more familiar territory. There’s a large modern sports facility here, used sometimes for football training by Hartlepool FC. (ssh, sensitive subject- no comments please!)

Approaching the bridge

The treads are made of logs

Looking back across the river

Safely over the bridge, the path follows the river on the other bank, through dappled leafy shade. Frequent splashes of oars can be heard as the local rowing teams spin and twirl in the water, to the harsh calls of the cox. The odd, solitary oarsman glides past too.

This strange creature is ‘working out’ by the river

Dappled shade

Heave! Heave!

Solitary struggles

I cross over a path which leads to the boat club (members only), and shortcut across a field strewn with the remnants of Autumn. The wider expanse of river beckons.

Lingering Autumn

The river widens at this point, heading towards Durham centre

The bandstand

I take a seat in the bandstand. I have been carrying with me, since my visit to Nottingham, a postcard destined for Viveka in Sweden. I exchanged addresses with this lovely lady some time ago, and now I receive ‘surprises’ in the post. (one of which was a Paris t-shirt in black and gold! I don’t know anyone more generous than Viveka) I have always loved postcards and having one land on my doormat gladdens my heart. Now it’s my turn to reciprocate. There’s a post office in town and what nicer place to sit and write?

On towards the centre and another bridge

Along the riverbank to yet another bridge!

Durham Castle, beautifully framed

The path follows the river to the bridge with the green railings, shown above. (Baths Bridge) I cross over, approaching the boat hire beneath Elvet Bridge. This is a popular spot and, in Summer, paintings of the castle and many other Durham views adorn the nearby walls. You might want to pause here for something to eat, or a row on the river. There are plenty of places to eat in Durham, catering to all tastes and wallets.

I pause to admire all the boat names

Especially Shirley!

I’m going to continue into the centre, to post my card. Before I go, I’d better give you instructions on how to get back to the start point, hadn’t I?

Climb the steps up onto Elvet Bridge and cross over it. Turn right onto New Elvet, passing the Royal County Hotel, and continue uphill to Hallgarth St. Following Hallgarth will bring you to a roundabout with a junction signed A177. About 15 minute’s walk in this direction will bring you back to Shincliffe Bridge, where I began. I hope you enjoyed our wander.

Next Monday I will be in the Algarve, but I intend to schedule a walk, just so you don’t forget me. I can’t guarantee that I will be able to respond to your comments, as this will necessitate a visit to an internet cafe. Not something I often do, but Anazu does have a connection. Please just link to my post as usual, if you have a walk to share. My Jo’s Monday walk page will give you the details, and I will respond to you as soon as I possibly can. Meantime, let’s put that kettle on and settle in for some more great reads.

I don’t receive many walks from South Sulawesi! Many thanks for this treat, and welcome Noe :

Walking around Tinabo Island

Jerusalem and Cardinal seem to go together. This is very beautiful night photography :

Jerusalem

Combine good company with superb night time shots in Bologna, with Paula :

Music and lights of Bologna

There are lots of things that Drake knows. How to entertain has always been one of them :

Knowing its Autumn

Fall in Canada! Wouldn’t you love to share it with Colline? :

Familiar Streets

Climbing hills and hopping over stiles in Dorset. Can this really be Jude? :

Pilsdon Pen

More beautiful Autumn colour and a little shared knowledge, from Violet Sky :

A tree walk

Close up and personal with Milkweed Bugs? I don’t like bugs much, but I do love Amy’s company

Milkweed Bug walk

And finally, stop off at the market on the way to the beach with Pauline. You may need a sunhat!

A walk along beautiful Burleigh Beach

I hope you enjoy these walks as much as I did. Many thanks to all my lovely contributors. Happy walking! See you soon.

Six word Saturday

Five places to go back to

Sagrada Familia in Barcelona

I was invited a while ago by Booked.net to take part in their promotion and maybe have the chance to win myself an iPhone6. All I had to do was write a post about 5 places I would be happy to go back to. It’s a tempting idea and it just happens to work well with my Six word Saturday.

Barcelona had to be on my list. Gaudi’s work left me speechless (and you should know, that’s not easy to do!) and I would be more than happy to revisit Parc Guell. The main reason for going back would have to be to observe the progress of the incredible Sagrada Familia. It’s not due for completion for a number of years yet so I shall postpone my revisit a while.

The lovely location of The Vintage Hotel on the banks of the Douro

Somewhere far more serene than Barcelona, the Douro region of Portugal made a lasting impression on me. Using Porto as a base, I had only a couple of days to explore the natural beauty of this landscape. The highlight for me was cruising back from Peso da Regua along the Douro River, the vineyards rolling away on either shore. I am quite determined to return some day and stay in one of the hillside villages where I can savour the pure, clear air. (and maybe sample the grape) Springtime, with the blossom all around me, would be ideal. Or Autumn, when all those vines turn wine red!

The frocks shimmered in the dark and then began to change colour

Shimmering frocks at Lumiere 2013, in Durham Cathedral

The city of Durham is right on my doorstep, and I return to it again and again. The University and student population make it a lively place and there’s always an event of some kind going on. Currently the Cathedral is fund raising via their Buy a Lego Brick campaign. I did, of course, and it’s fun to return and see the project grow.

If you really want to see something special, you should time your visit for Lumiere. This event only takes place once every two years, the next being November 2015. It’s a long way off, but put it in your diary. I’ll be there!

The view from the cafe in magnificent Musee d’Orsay, Paris

How could I not include my new love, Paris, in my list? I wandered far and wide around the city and found nothing to disappoint. Even sitting on the top deck of an open top bus with the rain streaming down my neck didn’t seem so bad in Paris! The wonders of Versailles and Monet’s incredible garden at Giverny will stay with me forever but I would love to go back. I don’t really think it matters how or when.

The Algarve, a place where my spirit soars

My last choice won’t come as a surprise to anyone who knows me, and I’m returning there on Monday. The Algarve is where I am at peace with the world. I have spent endless hours wandering on its beaches, and hope to spend many more. Tavira feels like home to me, and that’s always a reason for going back. It’s time for another glass or two of port in this beautiful riverside setting. I’d love it if you could join me there some day.

I won’t be around for Six Word Saturday next week. I’ll be wandering on one of those beaches! But I hope you’ll still join Cate at Show My Face.

One of the entry conditions of the Booked.net promotions was to name 5 other bloggers to participate. I’m not sure if we’re out of time but my nominations would be Le chic en Rose, lolawi, Behind the Story, Stranger in USA and Hey Jude.

“Booked.net – Top Destinations to Go There”

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.

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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?

Lumiere 2013 : Durham

Last night I had a fantastical journey around the city of Durham. It isn’t every day that you find an elephant trumpeting and snorting in a city centre, but this was definitely one of the highlights of Lumiere 2013. Where do people find the imagination and “know-how” to produce light installations like this? I have no idea, but I thoroughly enjoyed the spectacle.

From the other side of the bridge, he shakes his tusks at me!

I thought I was going to be in for a disappointment, because the Park and Ride was already full when I arrived in Durham at 16.30. No right-minded person attempts to drive beyond the outskirts when an event such as this is taking place. But not being in your right mind sometimes pays off, and with a bit of frustrating driving and a hike at the end, a suitable slot was found for the car.

Was it worth it? Of course! The sight of the Lindisfarne Gospels marching across the face of the Cathedral to rousing music can compensate for a lot! It was the only feature to be repeated from Lumiere 2011, and in a year when the Gospels had been on a summertime visit to the city, they were wholely appropriate.

My favourite part? I could have loitered in the Cathedral cloisters endlessly (in fact, I did, and lost my husband for a little while). Did you ever see anything more magical?

The frocks shimmered in the dark and then began to change colour

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I was spellbound! The setting was perfect, the colours enchanting! The night was bitter but for a while I didn’t notice. Overall I think that Lumiere 2011 was more spectacular, but as I ended that occasion with a black eye, I was more than happy to celebrate light with Durham in 2013.

The event runs biennially and the organisers seem to have learnt since 2011, when the crush around the Cathedral was sometimes frightening. This year there is restricted access to the city centre between 16.30 and 19.30, when you need a ticket to get beyond the barriers. There is plenty to see elsewhere and maps are provided online, or handed out at the event itself. (having printed one off, I forgot to take it, but the programme guides were readily available) I suspect they will run out over the four day festival.

Some brisk walking took place around the city, passing excited groups and families with smiling faces. There are lots of nice places to eat in Durham and after a meal in Bistro Italiano, it was time to enter the city centre for the finale.

I’ll leave you dancing! (courtesy of Michael- his shot is better than mine)

Do visit if you can. I’ve included links to the programme and the interactive site is full of suggestions for a good time. It won’t be repeated till 2015!

Reflections of Autumn

Yes, that’s my shadow on the stone pillar. Careless me!

This time of year always has me in reflective mood. No matter how bright the sunshine, I always know that Winter is waiting, just around the corner. But we have had the occasional sparkling day in this last week or so, and I have been determined to make the most of them. Come stroll with me in my Durham gallery of sunshine and shadows.

The River Wear was brim full and the reflections sparkled up onto the bridge.

Framed in the shadows beneath the bridge, the outline of Durham Cathedral.

The sun was so bright, I had to find leafy shade to even try a shot.

This was the photo I was aiming for on that bridge!

The Autumn reflections in the water were beautiful

And the shadows lengthened as I crossed over the bridge.

Finally, the lengthening shadows of evening.

And another Durham day has flown away.

Cee has given me the perfect opportunity this week to share a few Reflections and Shadows. Please click on the link to see some wonderful photographs.

I’m hoping your week will have more sunshine than shadow.

Six word Saturday

Family fun in all its guises!

A Mad Hatter’s tea party!

With the cutest rabbit

And, of course, the Dormouse.

Not quite sure about the worm but Mariusz liked him.

Mole was good for hugs though.

Arek is the one with boundless energy.

Rafal was endlessly patient with his younger brothers.

And Mum, Grazyna, is always full of smiles.

We did some serious stuff birdwatching in the hides too. Sssh- be very quiet!

Fun is guaranteed when my Polish family from Norfolk come to visit. The above shots were taken at Saltholme, a local birdwatching nature reserve. Click on any photo to follow the story line.

The sun shone on us in Durham.

The views were wonderful up on the Cathedral roof.

And the floral displays made us smile.

Especially these little guys!

We found the Hartlepool sampler

Then we crossed a bridge or two. All worn out! (except Arek)

In Durham, we took the Castle tour (Rafal is considering Durham University, based in the Castle, as one of his options). I was delighted to find that it was the first day of the flower festival in the Cathedral, but it was, of course, busy.

More fun is anticipated today.

What have you been doing with your week? Share it in Six word Saturday. The links or the header will take you there. Hope you have a happy weekend!

Thursday : Lingering look at windows- week 31

I’m struggling to fit eveything in tonight because I’m going to my daughter’s in Nottingham for the weekend tomorrow. But it’s Thursday, and that means a lingering look at windows, right?

I thought I’d simply show you more of the trompe l’oeuil windows that I featured in Sonel’s black and white photo challenge this week, but in colour, of course. Which is quite amusing because Dawn at Lingering Visions has chosen to use black and white photos for the challenge. They are really fabulous, so do go and look.

My “windows” are a feature of the Italian restaurant “La Spaghettata” in Durham. I think you’ll agree, they lend a wonderful atmosphere.

Black and White weekly photo challenge : Windows (and doors)

Spotted in the entrance to The Station, Richmond

An interesting view of windows and doors in The Station, Richmond.

You could be forgiven for thinking that I’m still participating in Sonel’s Abstract black and white photo challenge with the above shot, but you would be wrong. One of many things I have gained from the challenges is the desire to look at things a little differently, and to experiment now and then. No-one encourages this more than Sonel, and she very much enjoys to “play” with her photography and create wonderful effects.

Sonel gave us permission to post this week, although the challenge is sadly concluding. You probably know I’m partial to windows (and doors) so I’m happy to contribute one last time.

A whimsical window in Durham

Trompe l’oeuil windows in a favourite Durham restaurant

It was our 24th wedding anniversary yesterday and, in addition to receiving 24 red roses, I was taken to a favourite Italian restaurant in Durham, “La Spaghettata”. The trompe l’oeuil panels always capture my attention, and I thought you might like them in black and white.

Colour will always be my first love, but I have enjoyed my flirtation with black and white. I hope you have too.

Sonel, I don’t care whether you show me your delightful Vervet monkeys in black and white or in gentle colour. All that matters is that you continue to share your enormous talents with us, as, and when, you can. On behalf of all of us who have taken part in your Black and White photo challenge, thank you.

restlessjo

Roaming, at home and abroad

Durham

Jo’s Monday walk : Finchale Priory

Six word Saturday

Home in time for the bluebells!

Jo’s Monday walk : a Durham footpath

Six word Saturday

Five places to go back to

More fun with windows!

Lumiere 2013 : Durham

Reflections of Autumn

Six word Saturday

Family fun in all its guises!

Thursday : Lingering look at windows- week 31

Black and White weekly photo challenge : Windows (and doors)

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Home in time for the bluebells!

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Five places to go back to

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Family fun in all its guises!

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