Jo’s Monday walk

Jo’s Monday walk : Nottingham Castle

Just what you'd expect from the entrance to a castle

Just what you’d expect from the entrance to an ancient castle

We’re not going to do too much walking in Nottingham this week. Up to the castle to check out the view, of course, but after that I might treat you to a half in ‘Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem’. It’s an interesting old place!

I know Nottingham quite well, because it’s my daughter’s home, but it’s years since I’ve been to the castle. As in many parts of the country this year, there was a war-related exhibition- ‘Trent to Trenches’. But first, we must climb up to the castle. It’s not too steep and we can go slowly through the gardens, or even sit on a bench for a while.

Naturally, Robin’s hanging out there!

Semprevirens form a display in the border

With a thrust or two of Cordeline

There’s a lovely summer house, with a bench or two for lingering

And I even spied an owl on guard duty!

Once you reach Castle Rock, there’s a large viewing terrace with patio tables and chairs. Another invitation to linger, with perhaps a pot of coffee and croissants.

The day I was there, we were constantly accosted by a swarm of ladybirds! I have never seen the like. Red and yellow ones, both, were on the tables and thronging the doorway to the museum. I didn’t manage a photo because I was too busy rescuing them and guiding them on a better flight path. I can only surmise the warm weather had brought them out to play.

The view from Castle Rock

The views are expansive

Overlooking ‘Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem’ below.

Time for a little history. Nottingham Castle sits on a natural promontory, known as Castle Rock, with cliffs up to 40 metres high. Back in the Middle Ages it was a major fortress and royal residence. As all good castles are, it was strategically located, near to a crossing of the River Trent. Close to the royal hunting grounds at Tideswell and Sherwood, it once even had its own deer park. Whilst Richard the Lionheart was away on his Third Crusade, it is thought that the castle was left derelict ,and was occupied by the Sheriff of Nottingham. In the legends of Robin Hood, the castle often features in showdowns between the Sheriff and this popular outlaw.

Sadly the castle went into decline, and was largely demolished in 1649. A mansion was built on the site, but this was burnt out by rioters in 1831. The story of this and much of the castle’s intriguing history is told in the Castle Museum, opened in 1878- the first municipal art gallery in the UK outside of London. Just before we step inside, let’s admire the elegant pebble mosaics set into the courtyard.

I don’t intend to linger too long in the museum. We each have our own pace and interests. Let me just give you a small sample of what you might find inside.

Beautiful and original wrought iron gates

From around the county

Exquisite glassware

And extraordinary chess pieces

Regimental silverware

War memorabilia

And uniforms

Several galleries were given over to the exhibition, documenting life in Nottinghamshire during the wars. Even in black and white I found many of the images harrowing, and moved swiftly downstairs to learn of the castle’s history. I won’t spoil it for you by giving away too many details but it is an atmospheric space, and a story well told.

You must be about ready for that half I promised you? We’ll wander down the hill, past the place that was once a thriving Lace Market. ‘Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem‘, dating back to 1189, must be one of the most unusual pubs I’ve ever been in. It is set into the cliff face and is famous for its caves. The rooms are unusual shapes, some with holes in the ceiling. There was once a brewery in the lower caverns and there’s a route from there up into Nottingham Castle. You can actually book a tour of the cellars, which are part of Nottingham’s extensive cave network. Affectionately known as ‘The Trip’, the name derives from a ‘trip’, meaning a stop or resting place on a journey.

The former Lace Market

The cliff face

‘The Trip’

Looking up!

One of the smallest rooms

What a strange ceiling!!

But look! A friendly face. Cheers, Lisa!

As always, I have included links for those who would like more information, or might be near enough to visit. I hope you enjoyed meandering around Nottingham Castle with me. Not too strenuous, was it?

I’m ready to put the kettle on now and enjoy the great contributions I’ve received to Jo’s Monday walk this week. If you have a walk you’d like to share, do please join in. For details, just click on the link or on my logo. Many thanks to all my walkers this week.

Firstly, Noe takes us back to South Sulawesi. The scenery is quite amazing! :

West coast of Gusung Island 2

And for something completely different, how about Glasgow Necropolis, with Violet Sky :

City of the Dead

Amy has saved us some delicious remnants of Autumn foliage :

Lost Maples

While Drake is busy, just being himself, in Liverpool :

Walking Sculptures

And, all the way from Australia, we have Jude joining us again. A bit special! :

A walk in the Blue Mountains

That’s it till next Monday. Have a great week and happy walking to you all!

Jo’s Monday walk : São Brás circular

Fancy living in a windmill?

Enough of nostalgia! I think we’ll do one last Algarve walk before I get stuck into a British winter. This one’s a country walk, led for me by Georgie, a lovely lady who lives in the inland village of São Brás de Alportel. If you’re ever in the Algarve at Easter, this village hosts a beautiful parade through lavender strewn, cobbled streets. It’s a treat for all the senses.

It was a glorious morning when we set out, but I was informed there was a 40% chance of rain! We had driven up above the village to the site of the former pousada, with wonderful, wide-ranging views all around.

Looking out to the surrounding hills

It was soon obvious we were heading for a windmill

It was soon obvious we were heading to a windmill

This tree seems to have a sense of humour!

We had already discussed the fact that on breezy days, the wind whistles around the hilltops. Someone who had once stayed in the pousada recollected that the shutters had banged and rattled ferociously throughout the night. No sign or sound of that today, but weather up in the hills can change frequently.

A windmill conversion should not have been surprising

A windmill conversion, ready to occupy

Starting at so high a point, it was fairly obvious that we would be going down and then, at some future point, back up again. Georgie assured us that, taking your time, it wasn’t especially taxing. The cobbled path gave way to a rough track, and we paused frequently to take notice of our surrounds. Soon we came to a fonte or spring, used for laundry purposes in former times.

The spring of Tareja

Used for laundering

Water storage is often in tanks in the countryside

The trail follows a stream and reed beds before climbing up into the hills. In Spring these would be carpeted with cistus and wild flowers.

Did I mention changeable weather?

The blue is rapidly disappearing from the sky!

A couple of years ago forest fires ravaged the gullies around here, and evidence of the burnt out trees was starkly visible. Nature is quick to regenerate and we were more concerned with the clouds that seemed to have zipped in from nowhere. A few spits and spots of rain were laughed off as we hastened towards our coffee stop.

What a treat this little place was! Tesouros da Serra means ‘treasures of the sierra’. Nobody was arguing! The produce on display looked delicious, but we knew that in a short while we would have a lunch stop. We settled for sharing some alfarroba biscuits, but made a mental note to come back another day.

The array of produce looked wonderful

Stained glass panel in the cafe

More local produce

One of the really delightful things about this cafe, in an out of the way spot at the back of São Brás, was its garden. Not widely accessible to the public, when Georgie asked if we might see the olive tree, claimed to be 2000 years old, we were assured that we could go in.

The farm of treasure

A beautiful carved wooden seat

The olive tree

And from another angle

Another bench

And an amazing plant!

The sun was shining brightly again and we turned right along a path that led us through a forest of cork oaks. Huge gnarled creatures, standing their ground as they had for generations. Cradled beneath them lay extraordinary fungi.

A sign is always useful! ‘Docaria’ is the cafe.

Edible? I have no idea!

Misshapen? Definitely!

Colourful? Absolutely!

Coming out of the woods, we were back on the trail up to the pousada, which didn’t seem anything like as steep as expected. Maybe it was the prospect of lunch! I’ll give you a little peek in our restaurant, shall I? ‘O Marques’ is in Gralheira, on the back road from São Brás to Loule.

Wood beamed ceilings

A handsome chimney breast

Sorry, I forgot to save you some dessert!

I haven’t fully captured the beauty of this area. Georgie assured me that in Spring it is quite magical, and I have no cause to disagree. There are signboards along the way, giving details of the flora and fauna, and if you look at my links you will find more. To find the pousada, take the N2 signed Alportel from the village and head to the top of the hill. The cobbled path is off on your right, just after a bend in the road. The distance covered was around 6 miles and took us 3 hours, including our half hour coffee stop.

I owe huge thanks to Georgie for guiding this walk and for being such good company.

Time to draw breath, put that kettle on, and see where our walkers have got to this week. As always, I’m really thrilled with all the contributions. For details of how to join me, click on the logo above. Many thanks to you all!

First up, Violet Sky treats us to some fascinating family history in a village in Fife :

‘Muchty

Drake has a bit of a theme going on with his Monday walks. Have you noticed?

Do you wanna dance?

Join Amy in a watery green world in Texas. You may be surprised at the scenery. I was!

Cibolo Nature Centre

Rarely, if ever, have I seen anywhere more beautiful than the beaches Noe shares in South Sulawesi :

West Coast of Gusung Island

But just to prove that English beaches can hold their own, Suzanne’s been to St. Ives :

St. Ives, Cornwall- beaches, boats and the Old Green Door

Such a treat I have for you next! A magic carpet ride 🙂 If you don’t know Lisa, you must!

Magic Carpet Airlines Special- for Subscribers only

Stay on the carpet and we’ll fly to the Antipodes to join Meg! :

The River Road 9- grandeur and a river crossing

And Pauline is ‘stamping about’, just down the road! :

Rediscovering my stamping ground

Tobias is here with some lovely Hamburg curves and woods. Say hello, won’t you? :

Downtown strolls

Home Range

And in a last mad scramble, Shan has made it!

New York State Museum

Fantastic times, all round! I hope you enjoy reading these as much as I enjoy the sharing. Happy walking!

Jo’s Monday walk : Algar Seco

Algar Seco

Going back to places isn’t always such a good idea, but in this instance it definitely paid off. It must be 10 years since I first set foot in Carvoeiro. The location, possessively hugging a small cove, fishing boats pulled up on shore for safety, was always idyllic. Unfortunately too many people had discovered its charms. Parking was something of a nightmare, and the overall impression was definitely ‘tacky’.

I’m not one to give up on a place so easily, and I felt I owed it a second chance. As it happened, it provided the perfect location for my November birthday. Crowds weren’t an issue and some of the parking problems appeared to have been solved. The ‘tacky’ aspect is still there, but the spectacular scenery of the surrounding coast is justifiably a magnet. ‘High end’ villas and smart restaurants have moved in. Best of all, a beautiful new boardwalk has been installed along the cliff top east of town, making a walk to Algar Seco pure exhilaration.

The boardwalk, heading towards Carvoeira

The boardwalk, heading towards Carvoeiro

Magnificent, isn’t it? I was totally unprepared for the sight, but so often it seems to me that the Algarve ‘gets it right’. The cliff tops are subject to erosion and the boardwalk helps to protect them from the curious, while enabling safe and easy access to their dramatic beauty.

You can see the frailty of the rocks

Algar Seco is the name given to a rock formation carved into the cliffs by erosion and the action of the waves. Steps lead down into a natural amphitheatre, where the fit and sure-footed can view at close quarters how the sea seductively sculpts the shore.

Steps down into the grottoes

Close to the action

The shapes are surreal

And the waves suck and soar

While the sun glints wickedly on the water

I am not known for my affinity with goats, and wearing smart sandals was perhaps a mistake. A squidgy yellow puddle wasn’t exactly what they were designed for, but they survived. Wet wipes are a wonderful invention, aren’t they?

I thought the scenery was worth it!

Especially from inside the caves

Amazing to be so close to nature

Even if a little scary

But much safer up on the boardwalk!

Now let’s follow the boardwalk towards Carvoeiro. It isn’t very far and the views will keep you enthralled. There are benches set in at intervals if you want to simply sit and feast your eyes. Looking back you have the beach of Marinha, with Benagil’s tiny cove beyond. Ahead , an extravaganza of coast! Soon you arrive at Capela da Nossa Senhora da Encarnacao’s so pretty chapel.

The church square

With a pretty roof

Affording calm views to sea

Beyond this, the road starts to dip into the cove which is Praia da Carvoeiro. The sea wall is planted with hardy flowers but the chances are you won’t be able to take your eyes off the bay.

Determined to bloom in the salt air!

Just a hint at the beach below you

Invariably there will be a couple of boats, drawn up well away from the clutches of the sea. And a burst of colour in the houses at shoreline.

Happy to be stranded!

How about this for ‘beachfront’?

But you know that what will always lure me on is the thrash of the waves on the shore. I cannot wait to get close! Just a quick paddle!

Too close, sometimes!

But water like this is hard to resist!

After a play on the beach (yes, the wet bum incident, but the camera was safe!) and a few more shell shots, I opted to climb Rua da Paraiso. I just had to see what ‘Paradise Beach’ offered. The views down into the bay are equally lovely and you can complete a circuit which brings you back into the centre. There are only two main streets, side by side, leading to the beach (and away, if you’re a driver). Algar Seco is clearly signed, along the coast road and within the town, if you have left your car at the eastern end, as we did.

Thank you all for your patience. I’ve struggled mightily this weekend but, in the week ahead, hope to get ‘back on track’. As always I have some wonderful shares for you, so let’s get that kettle on and go armchair walking!

First we’re off to Otatara Beach in New Zealand, with Jill :

All Soul’s Day wander at Otatara PA

Then flying straight on to the States and the Hudson River :

Fort Lee Historic Park

A truly delightful Halloween walk next, with Colline. I found some little ‘trick or treaters’ in the Algarve too. Must show you sometime!

A Halloween Walk

Lamb burger anybody? Then you can walk it off, with Yvette :

Burger, Bach and a walk

Lovely Noe showed me another little piece of village life in South Sulawesi. Don’t miss it!

The old village of Bitombang

Tobias is here from Hamburg! A place I know little of, and am enjoying through his eyes :

The steep approach to Baumwall

Of course, there’d be no Monday walk without Drake! He always manages to stir nostalgia in me :

Whistle down the Wind

And when there’s a walk from Tish Farrell, you know you’re in for a treat :

Rambling Tales, My Little Pony, windmills, Olympian dreams

If Pauline ever invites you for a walk in her garden, say ‘yes’ immediately. It’s fabulous! :

Come walk with me in the garden

Nurturing and looking after swans sounds like a grand job, doesn’t it? Sherri is at a swannery this week :

A walk with swans

No Jude, you might have noticed? She has her hands full of grandson in Australia. Happy days! I owe so many thanks to my contributors. You have made my Mondays very special. I hope I haven’t missed anybody this week? Happy walking!

Jo’s Monday walk : Along the shore

Can you guess where?

I wasn’t sure what to post for this week’s walk. I haven’t yet taken you to Nottingham and I know that many of you like castles and history. But when this is published, I will be in the Algarve, and hopefully on my way to a Monday walk. It seemed only right to take you along.

My favourite kind of shell

The river beach on Tavira Island is rich with this type of delicate beauty. It never ceases to amaze me that, no matter how many are taken home, there are always more to discover. Come with me on a simple stroll along the beach and see what we can find.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

When you ride across to the ilha on the ferry, the river beach is where you land. Often enough I loiter here. There’s always a passing boat to wave at or admire. I like to follow the shoreline looking for ‘treasure’. There is a greater variety of shells on this side of the island, which seldom gets dashed by the Atlantic waves.

Looking back at Tavira from the river beach

Meandering

When I tire of looking, I head over the ilha to the main beach. There are a number of sandy trails crossing the island- some easier to follow than others. I sometimes get a little disoriented and wish I’d stayed with the main path, but eventually the sea always appears on the horizon.

Am I nearly there yet?

At last!

Depending how hot the day, I may just choose to collapse here for a little while. Down on the beach, someone has been creative with shells and two fish survey the world, just a little wearily. It is rather a warm spot to be out of the water!

Creative with shells

Keeping an eye on the beach?

Crochet detail

Knots!

An eyelid

Eyelid detail

Fish ‘scales’

Dangling!

Leaving behind the crazy fish, I simply have to kick off my flipflops and dip my toes in the surf. I know I’ve said it before but this beach really does stretch for miles. You have the choice of simply returning to the river beach by following the sea wall, or you can walk along the beach till you’re ready to flop. I’m sure you can guess which I’m inclined to do.

A bit of a splash by the lighthouse?

The beach bar at Barril acts as a powerful incentive. And there’s the beautiful Anchor Graveyard. Because sunset comes earlier at this time of year, this trip I may just manage those sunset images I’ve always coveted. For now, I’ll leave you with a gallery I took last time I was here. I think you can find your own way home? See you there!

I’ll be back in the UK for next week’s walk. Maybe we’ll do Nottingham, but we’ll definitely be walking somewhere. I hope that you’ll join me. If you have a walk that you’d like to share, it would be great if you could link to me, or leave a link to your post in my comments. The details are on my Jo’s Monday walk page.

Time to share this week’s walks. Kettle on and feet up! Many thanks to all my contributors.

Drake has me singing again as I stroll alongside him :

Here, There and Everywhere

High fashion and shoes this week with Violet Sky :

Shows who you are

Enjoy a change of pace and place with Cardinal :

Berlin Street 0741

Sharing comes naturally to Amy. Do join her and her delightful ducks :

Jo’s Monday walk

A very special garden from Jude. Enjoy it because it’s her last before she’s off to Australia!

Garden Portrait : Abbotsbury sub-tropical gardens

Dear Meg takes us to the Australian bush, on a serene walk with nature :

The river road 4

Noe is back this week, playing with the children on their island paradise :

Amazing journey to Rajuni Kiddi Island

Brilliant, aren’t they? I hope you enjoyed them all as much as I did. Happy walking!

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.

Jo’s Monday walk : The Drummer Boy

Easby Abbey, ghostly in the mist

Easby Abbey seemed to me to be quite at home shrouded in mist. I’d chosen the riverside walk from Richmond, in Yorkshire, for its Autumn colour and had almost forgotten the sad story of the Drummer Boy. Legend has it that, towards the end of the 18th century, a tunnel was discovered beneath the keep of Richmond Castle. The entrance to the tunnel was very narrow, so a small regimental drummer boy was chosen, to squeeze through and investigate.

He was lowered into the tunnel and instructed to beat his drum loudly as he walked. The soldiers above could follow his progress from the drumbeat. He led them away from the castle and down to the River Swale, in the direction of Easby Abbey. Half a mile from the Abbey, the drumbeat ceased. The little drummer was never seen or heard from again!

The Drummer Boy stone

I think I can probably guarantee to guide us on this walk without disappearing. Are you game?

From Richmond Market Place, turn north on Frenchgate, and then right, along Station Rd. Just as you reach the bridge, with The Station on the far shore, you will find a turn off, pointing to Easby Abbey. The path climbs up from the riverside and will lead you to a junction, where the Drummer Boy stone is placed.

A popular landmark on Frenchgate

An Autumnal dew bathes the roses

Looking back towards the castle and St. Mary’s Church

Leaves strew the footpath

The river chortles along below, tantalising with glimpses through the trees. Soon you come to a field and across this you have St. Agatha’s House (a private residence) on your left and to your right, Easby Abbey. The Abbey of St. Agatha, as it is more correctly known, dates from 1152 but has stood abandoned since the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the late 1530s. The former inhabitants were canons rather than monks, members of the Premonstratensian (or Norbertine) order. The White Canons, known for the colour of their habit, were Roman Catholics.

It's a lonely spot but St. Agatha's Church is gentle company

It’s a lonely spot, but St. Agatha’s Church is good company

The Abbey from the church grounds

The site is maintained by English Heritage and is free of charge. I was a little surprised to find the church open and even more surprised at what I found inside.

Beneath the beamed ceiling, light flooded the walls

With traditional stained glass windows

But the painted arches were unexpected

And the coloured frescoes took me completely by surprise

Lit by the windows

With beautiful alcoves

And intimate detail

The church is known to pre-date the Abbey and the Medieval wall paintings date from 1250. It felt well-loved. In the grounds a small army of men were beavering away, removing overgrown trees. Retracing my steps through the church gate, I turned my attention to the Abbey.

The gatehouse, just across the lane from the church

The sturdy lines of the Abbey

Cloister detail

The window of the Refectory

Time to resume our walk. Turn right at the Abbey gate and follow the lane down. A gravel path beside the River Swale heads east and after about 300 yards comes to an old iron bridge. Cross over and take the former railway track, signed ‘Richmond, half a mile’.

Hips or haws?

The River Swale chatters along below

Once back at The Station, you can easily retrace your steps, but it seems a shame to me to leave the river when it’s about to reveal its might. How about we pop into The Station for a snack and a look at some art work before we continue?

The ham hock soup was delicious

And I always like a browse at the art

There’s always something that appeals

I’ve written about The Station before. In fact, I was there on my birthday, 2 years ago. Seems I have a weakness for this part of the world in the Autumn. Since I was last there a bakery has opened and the accompanying smells were delicious! Come on- just ten minutes more. I promise you, it’s worthwhile.

Cross over the bridge and turn left through a gate. The path follows the river quite closely or you can get nearer by walking on the grass. The tree roots are exposed in places so watch your step if you leave the path.

Here’s the bridge

See what I mean about the roots?

Don’t get too close to the river!

Autumn’s carpet is beautiful, isn’t it?

Just about ready to fall

Can you hear a rumbling sound? You might have caught sight of them through the trees. The river is very low this year after a dry Summer.

My first sighting always makes me smile!

Just a little closer

The power of the water is awesome

As always, I find myself entranced

I hope you will agree it was worth another 10 minutes walking? The hard part lies ahead because the road winds quite steeply back up to the Market Place, passing by the Castle. The circular walk from the Market Place to Easby Abbey and back is just 3 miles. Free parking is available at The Station, if you get there early enough. (and it saves you a climb)

Legend also links the Drummer Boy to Lewis Carroll, who grew up in Richmond. Allegedly ‘Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland’ began life as ‘Alice’s Adventures Underground’. I rather like the idea that he took inspiration from this story.

And now it’s time to put the kettle on and join my fellow walkers this week. Click on the logo if you’d like to join in. You’d be more than welcome and there are always beautiful walks to share. Many thanks to everybody for their kind contributions. Here we go!

Drake always has the power to fire my imagination :

Emptiness with content

Of all the world’s beautiful cathedrals, I didn’t know this one, so thank you, Cardinal :

Berlin Cathedral

And for probably the best deer shot you’ve seen this year! Amy- you’re a treasure! :

O.P. Schnabel Park

We’re honoured this week to share a post from Lucy, in a very special place on the Northumbrian coast :

Marooned on Lindisfarne Island

If it’s scenery you’re after, it’s hard to beat County Tipperary. Many thanks to Joan for sharing :

Up in the hills

For the longest time I’ve been following Bespoke Traveller. Read this post and you’ll see why :

The long way down in Grand Canyon

If waterfalls and sky walks are your thing, follow Pauline to New South Wales :

A journey into the dawn of time

If you prefer shopping, Meg has her shopping baskets at the ready :

A Williamsburg walk

That’s it for another week. I hope you enjoyed reading as much as I enjoyed putting it together. Happy walking!

Jo’s Monday walk : Leeds Waterfront

The Trans Pennine Trail at Leeds

When National Express changed my itinerary, giving me a 3 hour stopover in Leeds on my way home from Nottingham, they did me a big favour. They gave me just enough time to explore Leeds Waterfront. I’d done a tiny bit of research so I knew there was plenty to see. I hope you like looking at canal boats and reflections? There are rather a lot of them here.

I grabbed a sandwich as I whistled through the bus station, turned right at the doors, crossed over the road, and there I was, practically on the canal bank. The weather forecast had predicted rain and the coach had passed through some heavy showers, but my luck was in. Starved, because I hadn’t eaten breakfast, I found myself a seat by Clarence Dock and plonked myself down for 10 minutes, to munch and look at these beauties.

I’m never alone with a canal boat or two

My picnic view

Looking across to the Royal Armouries

I always like a ‘pop’ of colour

A sign or two

And a few reflections

I don’t know whether you’re familiar with the Royal Armouries museum? It’s the kind of place where you can lose a day quite easily. Have a browse at the website. You might want to make time to come back. No spare time for me that day. I had much exploring to do.

A raft of offices, restaurants and apartments surround the dock. I had tried to memorise a route along the towpath but I did what I always do, which is to follow my nose. This usually results in a few false starts and some day I will have to invest in technology so I can summon up the genie in the iPhone. If you look at the Leeds Waterfront map it shows you quite clearly which paths are ‘navigable’. Meantime I blunder on!

Time to leave Clarence Dock

And another ‘pop’ of colour

And head past the lock to Knight’s Way Bridge

Isn’t that a lovely name for a bridge?

Pausing to watch the dredger negotiate the lock

And looking upstream to Crown Point Bridge

Looking back at the Royal Armouries museum

Looking back towards Royal Armouries and the lock

I stayed on the left bank of the River Aire, stopping for a look at Crown Point Bridge. Opened in 1842, this was a toll bridge until 1868. The towpath takes you past Brewery Wharf to Centenary Bridge, built in 1992 to celebrate 100 years of Leeds acquiring city status. The views across to The Calls make this one of the most attractive stretches of the waterfront.

Bridge detail

Crown Point Bridge x 2

Approaching Centenary Bridge

Sculpture detail in Brewery Wharf

The Calls with St. Peter’s Church in the background

Centenary Bridge

At this point the towpath ceases for a short distance and you have to thread your way through Bridge End Apartments, where I found a delightful surprise. The wooden bridge was under repair but, lying in the water beneath, bright jewels clustered on the lily pads.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

More by luck than skill, I found myself at Leeds Bridge. Dating back to the 14th century, this bridge, originally made from stone, was for 500 years the main crossing point on the river. The medieval bridge was demolished in 1871, when it could no longer cope with the volume of traffic, and the existing cast iron bridge was constructed by 1873. A distinctive looking bridge, it was the setting for the world’s first moving pictures. In 1888, Louis Le Prince filmed horse-drawn traffic on the bridge, showing it in his nearby workplace, which became the world’s first cinema.

Intricate ironwork

Leeds Bridge

The crest. Did somebody mention owls?

Crossing over Leeds Bridge, the path then hugs the backs of stylish hotels around to Victoria Bridge. The site of a ferry crossing and then a wooden footbridge washed away by floods, the Victoria Bridge was carved from local stone and completed in 1839, soon after the coronation of Queen Victoria. Just beyond this point the River Aire meets the Leeds and Liverpool canal at Granary Wharf, loftily overlooked by the railway.

Victoria Bridge

New footbridge into Granary Wharf

Sam’s boat!

Dazzling reflections on life

The boat cafe

The canal continues out of the city and into the countryside, but I had run out of time to follow it any further. There are 127 miles of the Leeds and Liverpool canal- enough walking even for me! I would have liked to explore Holbeck Urban Village with its iconic Italianate towers, but it was time to turn back. I looped round into Water Lane and headed back up Neville Street, curious to see the light installation under the railway bridge.

Passing south of Trinity Church and the impressive looking shopping plaza, I chanced upon the Corn Exchange. Anyone remember Donovan? Apparently he strummed along here before he was famous. A striking mural caught my eye, then I was back at Kirkgate and the Leeds City Market. It’s a regular stop off for me if I’m passing through the city. Both the food stalls and the architecture are unbeatable. A friendly local informed me that I should come along on Halloween, when they open the top gallery for a ‘Spooky walk’. Sounds like fun?

The canal path, leading out of town

The canal network, West Leeds

Sound and Light in Neville Street

The main entrance to the markets

Did you ever see a better mural?

I hope I haven’t worn you out too much this week, but it’s been interesting, hasn’t it? To join in my Monday walks click on the logo below and it will give you the details. I’ve got the kettle on for what comes next- a visit to some wonderful friends. Please do join me.

Cardinal has a very individual style. Let’s accompany him to Jerusalem :

Jerusalem 9930

Violet Sky joins us again this week for a walk in the park :

A walk in the park

Amy’s photography is an absolute joy :

Where have all the flowers gone?

I really must visit Liverpool soon. Drake’s colours sing! :

Seeking out the colours

Meet Shan and her lovely family and go apple picking :

Coffee and Conversation

And a huge welcome to Tish Farrell! Her evocative writing style and photos makes me want to head for Wales right now :

Now that Summer’s done, we take the Dol Idris path

Come and get a bit damp on the prom with me and Jude! :

Reculver Towers and Roman Fort

And speaking of proms, how does New Zealand grab you? Jill is very persuasive :

Wellington on a good day

And just ‘up the road’, Rosemay takes us for a jaunt on the Perth coast :

A walk with Winston

Staying ‘down under’, Pauline invites us for a beach walk. It reminds me of Christine. Where does the time go?

Beach walk

And lastly. our lovely Yvette is taking us to a ‘beautiful river’ :

Beautiful waterfront- Buffalo NY

Many thanks to you all for your company and warm support. Happy walking!

Jo’s Monday walk : Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal

The lovely ruins of Fountains Abbey

Classic English beauty combines with a watery world for this week’s walk at Studley Royal, in Yorkshire. I’ve been there several times and always been cursed with dismal weather. The balmy Autumn that we’ve been experiencing was just perfect for this visit. A Cistercian Abbey, water gardens and a deer park- irresistible? I think so! But don’t forget to take your purse. Being a National Trust property, it doesn’t come cheap. (currently £10.50- no concessions, unless you are a National Trust member)

Some things don’t change. The monks who came here in 1132 were pretty good at amassing money too. Thirteen Benedictine monks left St. Mary’s Abbey in York to found a Cistercian Abbey in this valley. It became one of the richest in Europe. Something that has changed, since my last visit, is the approach to the park. You used to be able to drive into the estate through the deer park, but traffic now is all routed via the Visitor Centre. Pick up a map at reception, and let’s go.

It’s not long before you catch your first sight of the Abbey

The ruins are extensive and Fountains Abbey Mill is the only 12th century Cistercian cornmill left in the UK. It was in continuous use until 1927, and today houses an interactive exhibition and the water wheel, which can still grind corn.

Wooded cliffs line the valley

Numerous pheasants scuttle around the grounds

And you follow the stream, looking back at the Abbey from time to time

As it recedes into the distance

If you’ve never been here before, you will almost certainly be impressed with what comes next. After the dissolution of the monasteries in 1539, the Abbey buildings and over 500 acres of land were sold by the Crown. The property was passed down through several generations until it was inherited by John Aislabie, in 1693. He was a socially and politically ambitious man and became Chancellor of the Exchequer in 1718, but his involvement in the South Sea Bubble financial scandal had him expelled from Parliament. On his return to Yorkshire, he turned the wooded valley of the River Skell into one of England’s most spectacular Georgian water gardens.

A basin of water opens up before you

Beyond the trees, a further body of water

Dramatic sculptures line the canal

Which stretches off into the distance

And the sphinx looks idly on

The reflections in the lily pond are lovely

Reflections sparkle in the lily pond

Yet more sculptures rough and tumble

A group of volunteer gardeners are raking pond weed from the canals- a pleasant enough occupation on such a sunny afternoon. The curve of the Moon Pond stretches ahead, the pillars of the Temple of Piety a focal point on the far side. Originally the Temple of Hercules, it is believed to have been renamed when John Aislabie’s son, William, commissioned a bas relief wall sculpture inside the temple, after his father’s death.

The Temple of Piety, beyond the Moon Pond

Looking out from between the pillars

The bas relief wall sculpture

Corner detail

And looking up, inside the portico

You need to walk along the canal and cross over a narrow bridge to reach the Temple of Piety. From the bridge there’s a good view across the lake to the deer park. I didn’t spot any deer at that distance, but was diverted by one of the park’s follies, the Octagon Tower. A neo-Gothic castle, it looked to me very inviting, but sadly I couldn’t climb it. Beneath it lies a Serpentine Tunnel, originally designed to give people a bit of a fright at garden parties.

The lake, with the deer park in the distance

The Octagon Tower, nestling in the trees

I’m not sure what she was holding?

In her beautiful watery world

I couldn’t climb the tower, but I did find somewhere to look down onto the park. A sign directing me to Anne Boleyn’s Seat and Surprise View could not be ignored. I’ll spare you the climb because it was pretty steep, but I think you’d like the view. You will have an advantage over Anne Boleyn, who never actually saw it. That’s not because she didn’t have a head, but the name does come from a headless statue.

The Surprise View

Anne Boleyn’s Seat and the headless statue

Back on the path, you can return along the opposite side of the canal, steadily approaching the Abbey. There you will have a number of diversions. You can visit the Mill or the tea rooms, and Fountains Hall is a stately exhibition space. (with holiday flats to let!) Any children with you will love the interpretation centre at the Porter’s Lodge. (I did too!) And if you have time and energy to spare, there’s the Gothic extravagance of St. Mary’s Church and a stroll round the deer park.

Fountains Hall

Fun in the Porter’s Lodge

Don’t take my word for all this. The National Trust website will tell you the whole story and provide instructions on how to get there. I think that you would enjoy this World Heritage Site. I know I did. And now it really must be time to put the kettle on, don’t you think?

Click on the logo to visit my Jo’s Monday walk page for details on how to join in. As always we have a wonderful variety of walks to share.

How about a sample of Finnish nature with Vasilis? I hope you’ve met before? And the lingonberry tart looks so good! :

Finnish nature

Yvette’s taking street portraits and searching for a missing lady. Please share this one :

Street photos from Charlottesville, VA

Join Drake, very thoughtfully making war on waste :

Escape from the Cityscape

Making people happy in Jerusalem- that’s Cardinal this week :

Street Portrait : The Photographer

Amy has been having some more fun with her bird friends :

Yoga on Water

And Jude has the most delicious selection of Michaelmas Daisies you ever saw! :

Celebrating Saint Michael

Welcome a Blogspotter please! Violet Sky has a very fun post to add to the collection. Do go and say ‘hello’. :

Lost and found

Pauline is in transit again, but has been kind enough to share a trip ‘over the border’ to New South Wales. Safe travels, Pauline and Jack! :

Lingering look at Heritage windows

That’s it for this week. It just remains to wish you all ‘happy walking!’

Jo’s Monday walk : gliding high!

Hello-o-o, up there!

You’re probably thinking that lack of sunshine has gone to my head! No, I’m not planning a sky walk this week. What I would like to do is to take you up Sutton Bank, on the Yorkshire Moors, to the glider school. I actually took this walk a couple of weeks ago when I was out searching for purple heather on the moors. A road diversion had us approaching from the wrong direction, and by a very roundabout route, so that I was in despair of finding any blooming heather. What I did find, though, was gliders! I guess it’s an ok substitute.

The heather has already bloomed and waned, but the gliders still fly high. You won’t need to do any climbing to see them. I hope you’re game to come with me?

Oh, really?

We parked at the Visitor Centre on Sutton Bank, properly known as Roulston Scar. When I spotted a sign- ‘The finest view in England’- my expectations were pretty high. At the viewing platform binoculars were clasped in several hands, but the day was heavily overcast. I admit, I was a little disappointed. Still, you couldn’t fault the other half’s enterprise in bringing me here. Perhaps the clouds would lift?

Promising, but not spectacular?

Not destined to be my favourite view

But there was a choice on the signposts

And so, the White Horse it was to be. Sound more promising to you? The trouble is, The White Horse is better seen from afar. Never mind. I’ll do my best! In the meantime, I was approaching the glider station. Surely there wouldn’t be much to see from up there on a day like today?

The sign looks full of promise

And there was a glider at the ready

Control tower also ready?

The sky was even beginning to clear a little

Revealing the beauty of the countryside

The path is level and it’s just as well because you’re constantly stopping and gazing skyward. There’s a low drone as the plane tows the glider past you and in seconds they’re airborne. Soaring out over the cliffs, it’s a heart stopping moment as the plane leads the glider ever higher and then releases into a thermal or rising air current.

The plane whizzes past, towing the glider

Clinging on, in search of a thermal

Then freedom! And a patch of blue sky!

Back at ground level, the path continues on. The White Horse of Kilburn is not far away. I’m not sure what kind of view of it I will have, as it lies on the cliff face below me.

The sign shows an aerial view

As half expected, it’s easier to get a wild flower shot

Steps lead down the cliff to a car park far below. I look back at my husband, who shrugs and turns to walk away. I start down the steps in search of a better view.

This is the best I can do!

Or this bench, thanks to Fred Banks

And a lovely patch of heather

Unless you want a long descent down the steps, and then an aching clamber back up, this will have to do for now. You could, of course, be enterprising and drive to the car park below. I’m sorry to tell you that we didn’t. The clouds closed in again- that’s the nature of the moors- and it was time for a hasty retreat from a squall of rain.

But at least I’d had a glimpse of ‘England’s finest view’

And a little moorland heather

I hope you enjoyed our walk? This link to Wikipedia will give you a few more details of the whereabouts and geology of the horse, and the village of Sutton-under-Whitestonecliffe, where I remember a rather nice pub.

I won’t be home till teatime today, but I’m hoping you will still have received this walk, which I scheduled. Early or late, I’ll definitely be there. Once again, I have some wonderful shares for you. Many thanks to all of you who take part.

My first walk this week is very fittingly titled but, more importantly, it’s full of wonderful photos. Thank you so much, Meg. This is beautiful!

Skyspace

The Cardinal took us to Petra in Jordan, for the sunniest of smiles :

Street Portrait

Paula knows us Scorpios don’t mind water, or even occasionally…

Getting Wet

If you haven’t seen any of Amy’s photography lately, you’re missing a treat. Goodbye Summer! :

It’s last Beauty

Drake was back on Samsoe this week, with some Norwegian love :

Vikings, potatoes and Norwegian love

Hands up those of you who’ve been to Odessa? No- I thought not! Jouena has a lovely share :

Mosaic in Odessa

You can share a walk with me any day of the week. The details are all in my logo. Have a great week and happy walking!

Jo’s Monday walk : Santa Luzia

The patron saint of the village

I could wander around Santa Luzia all day and every day. So many of the houses are clothed in beautiful azulejo tiles. Just 2 km west of Tavira, this fishing village has an identity all of its own. Modern housing has been added, and a new seafront promenade since my first visit, more than 10 years ago. Yet somehow this village is timeless and defies outsiders to change its true nature. Would you like to share it with me? We’ll take just a slow walk today. There’s plenty of time.

The waterfront is where I usually start

It’s an easy place to spend time

The palm trees don’t provide much shade, but there are plenty of cafes lining the waterfront. It’s a place where you could idle away many an hour, just watching and wondering. Avenida Duarte Pacheco is the village’s main street and behind it there are only a handful of others. Getting lost really isn’t an option, but you’re welcome to try.

A typical house on Duarte Pacheco, next to a cafe

Every street has its patterns

Some adorning lovely old houses with balconies

And a protective saint

Or a family name

The street signs are lyrical (Baker’s St.)

Isn’t this just beautiful?

I’m going to be a very lazy tour guide today and simply let you wander. The details that appeal to each of us are different, aren’t they? I think you should have time to choose where to linger.

Choose a street and head inland

There’s a small square with the church

Some of the tiles have seen better days

While some houses are grander

And newly whitewashed

The whole seems to me to blend together. The locals go about their business, paying little heed to the tourists. I always venture a smile and ‘Bom dia’ and without fail there is a response.

Splashes of colour call out to me everywhere

And those details that I love

The tiles not always to my taste

But so many things please the eye

I’m going to be just a little naughty now. You remember my fondness for boats? For just 3 or 4 months in Summer a ferry runs from Santa Luzia across to the ilha, Tavira Island. It’s only a 10 minute crossing, so just about time to get comfortable. One of the nice things, though, is the opportunity it gives you to observe Santa Luzia from the water. Would you like to see? And if you’re full of energy, you can have a swift stride down the beach. I’ll be right with you!

The ferry’s in!

And away we go

Past the fishing fleet

And working boats

Across the channel of water

And we’re there!

Pulled up at the ‘ilha’

Looking back towards Tavira as the ferry departs

There’s plenty of space down at the beach

Or you could collect up umbrellas

Or maybe a quick paddle?

And then it’s back on board

And return to Santa Luzia

Not so bad, was it? Just one last look at Santa Luzia and you’ll want to eat. Casa do Polvo, at the eastern end of the front, is great if you’re an octopus fan. On some evenings you can listen to fado there too, and even join in and sing a little if the fancy takes you. Away from the front there are a number of small restaurants. Most will feed you well. It’s just a matter of taste.

Another lovely street sign

And yet more tile patterns

A collection of quirky chimney pots

And a letter box I love!

I’m hoping you enjoyed this week’s walk. Not too strenuous, was it? And the Eastern Algarve is easy on the eye, I always think?

Next week will be an English walk and very different. I’m going to my daughter’s in Nottingham next weekend and will be travelling back on the Monday. I’m going to attempt to schedule a walk. I’ve never done that before but am hoping it’s easy. If all else fails, I will be home by teatime and will post the walk then. Wish me luck!

Wow! What a week! So many fantastic entries. You’re definitely going to need a cuppa, or even two, to read your way through. I’m off to put the kettle back on. Thank you so much, everybody, for joining Jo’s Monday walk. The details are in my logo.

I simply love Drake’s Beatles walk! :

Let it be

The Botanical Garden in Zagreb is beautiful! Thanks for sharing, Paula :

Monday Walk in the Botanical Garden

And, in case you missed it, atmospheric castle ruins near Bratislava, also in Paula’s delightful company :

A walk around Devin Castle

Meg tackled a tricky one this week. All in a good cause! :

On Nerrigundah Ridge

My lovable friend Cathy is finding her way around Nanning in China. Go and say ‘hi’ please? :

A Monday morning walk on Campus

A water lily from Israel! And incredibly beautiful, thanks, Cardinal :

Water Lily Porn