North Yorkshire

Six word Saturday

Never promised you a rose garden

Here in the north east of England we’ve had a few days of capricious Summer. Knowing its fleeting nature I’ve been out enjoying it. If there’s one thing that Britain does well, it’s gardens, so I thought I’d try to dispel yesterday’s gloom, if only for a little while.

Come with me to Sutton Park, a stately home in Sutton on the Forest, North Yorkshire.

The Grade 1 listed Georgian house is the family home of Sir Reginald, 8th Baronet, and Lady Sheffield, and there are connections to both David Cameron’s wife, Samantha, and to the Duchess of Cambridge. The history page on the website traces a link all the way back to the Templars.

Within the extensive grounds are an Ice House which you can actually walk inside, and a huge kitchen garden.

The house and gardens are only open in May, June, and a couple of weekends, so I just made it in time for a delicious scone in the tearooms.

Ready to face the world again now. Enjoy your weekend, whatever you have planned. I’ll have more gardens and a castle for you in my Monday walk. Don’t forget to pop in on Cate before then.

Jo’s Monday walk : Lambkins and bikes!

Just before I made off for the Algarve I had time to squeeze in one last walk. I’ve been to the North Yorkshire village of Great Ayton many times, and had not really expected to share with you another walk there. 150 photos proved me wrong, and I think you might like to share one or two of them. Who can resist wobbly, white lambs?

I almost didn’t get there because our walk leader’s car was sick, but I bestowed the walk leader badge on my other half, and off we went.

It was a bit fresh, and misty, but with the bunting flapping wildly, we crossed over the narrow bridge and headed up the side street out of the village. More about the bunting later. There’s a sign pointing out a public footpath, which leads between houses and a big hawthorn fence, round past the cricket pitch, over a field and down to a stream. Are you still with me so far? It’s tricky!

This is where you should end up. Cross over the little bridge and you come out into a country lane. More bunting and a bridge with a scruffy sign, pointing to Easby and Kildale. You don’t want either of those options today, so proceed gently uphill past Brookside Farm.

The goose, though handsome, is the honkiest, noisiest creature. The cow, much more placid. At about this point we were joined by a young ex-army man, out looking for fresh air and exercise. Hadn’t he come to just the right place! We chatted pleasantly along the lane. The conversation was of Pisa and travels abroad, and I totally missed the fact that the farm cafe was open. Not like me, at all! The husband was more alert but didn’t point it out till after we’d parted company with our walker friend. We directed him uphill towards Captain Cook’s Monument. A much sterner test for the legs, and one that we declined that day.

The daffs were everywhere, and a sprinkling of primroses too. As we hailed the morning rider, White Cottage came into view, with a stunning fanfare of rhododendron. The crossroads here lead down to Little Ayton, and continue on into Great Ayton itself. Probably the recommended route for strollers but, if you choose to puff and pant uphill, you will find a footpath off to your left. This takes you across a field. If you’ve timed it right, you could be in for a real treat.

I don’t think I ever saw such bright, white, new ones! One of the little fellas had managed to find his way out of the field, and away from the safety of his mother’s side. He was scrambling frantically to find a way back in, while Ma looked on in exasperation. I stood politely and quietly by, holding the gate just a little ajar for him. I didn’t want any adventurous brothers or sisters skipping out to join him. But I need not have worried. With a twitch of his stubby tail, he was under the gate and gone, with barely a backwards glance.

For us, the trail led on, very muddily, over the railway tracks and back down into the village. Where finally all of that bunting was explained.

The Tour de Yorkshire is coming to the village on May 1st, and the villagers were out in force, bedecking and festooning with bunting and bikes.

And I’m not done yet! Past the cascades and along by the river, romantically trailing willows, still there’s more bunting and bikes to see. I think they’re going to have a high old time on 1st May, don’t you? I almost wish I could be there.

As we returned to our car, parked by the riverside, my husband spied a rather lovely magnolia. I couldn’t quite get close enough for a decent shot, but I found a reward of a different kind. A tiny raised gate led into the churchyard beyond. I had stumbled upon James Cook’s childhood church, All Saints, dating from the 12th century. In this lovely spot, his mother and siblings are buried.

If you happen to be in the area on May 1st, Stage 3 of ‘Tour de Yorkshire’ starts in Middlesbrough and races down over our beautiful Moors, ending at Scarborough on the north east coast. Myself, I will be in Poland, but I might just catch a glimpse on the sports news. A map and full details of the route are contained in the links.

I’m glad I managed to fit in this post, not least because it gives me the opportunity to showcase some amazing walks. Where else will you find Korcula, the Shropshire Hills and Katmandu, all on the same page? Please don’t miss any of them. Huge thanks to all my contributors, and to all of you for your patience in my absence.

I’m going to have to take liberties again, because very early on Thursday I’m off to Poland with Dad. I don’t return until 12th May and will have only limited internet access whilst there. If you would like to share a walk in the meantime, you’re very welcome to do so. Details are, as always, on my Jo’s Monday walk page. Just click on the logo above.

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If I had to shortlist places to see before I finally vanish, Hawaii might well be on it. You will enjoy this!

My weekly ramble

And just to totally convince you, Carol’s taking us to a waterfall :

Manoa Falls

Geoff took me to familiar and much loved haunts with this walk :

G is for the Greenwich#atozchallenge

Becky gave me the gentlest of nudges before I set off for the Algarve. Isn’t this walking bliss?

On the trail of Nightingales

Anabel finds the loveliest chateau, and a little bit of mud!

Chatelherault

Shakespearean sonnets make for an interesting garden stroll with Trav Trails :

Sonnets and Flowers

And Jackie is out looking for signs of Spring in Toronto :

A Walk along the Humber

Another walk I’d really love to take for myself one day. Say hello to the folks on this lovely island :

Top Views of Korcula- Walking Route

I love a walk that’s a bit different, and Karen provides exactly that!

The Goods Line

While Gilly takes us for a lunch time romp among the bluebells :

A lunchtime escape

Seriously good ‘value for money’ from Denzil, with a city walk and boat trip too :

How to spend a day in Ghent

A lovely welcome home arrived from Susan. So like one of my own Tavira beach walks :

Rock Walk 2

And what can you say about Tish? An astoundingly beautiful return visit for me, which I thoroughly enjoyed :

Happy Earth Day from the Shropshire Hills, some of the world’s Oldest Rock Formations :

I would not have believed it possible to have so much delight on a homecoming. My cup runneth over, Badfish!

Last Supper in Katmandu

So there we have it, for a couple of weeks. I have some lovely Algarve walks to share with you, but they’ll have to wait for a little while. I might try to schedule a post for May 9th, the Monday before I come home, but it would probably be more sensible to wait until 16th. In the meantime, I will visit and share as much as I can. Do look after yourselves, won’t you? And very happy walking!

Jo’s Monday walk : Saltburn in Winter

Some towns work really hard at making the best of what they have. Saltburn-by-the-Sea, on the North Yorkshire coast, is certainly one of those. The second you step out of the railway station, you are welcomed by a frieze of mosaics, colourfully depicting many of the town’s landmarks. The towering cliffs of Huntcliff Nab form a constant and beautiful backdrop at the end of the street.

A saunter through majestic Victorian architecture will bring you down to the Valley Gardens. A miniature steam train, ‘Prince Charles’, chuffs the length of the valley in the summer months. Then there’s the beach, promenade and cliff lift, all offering their entertainments. The pier stretches out to embrace the salt spray of the North Sea. Parasols a-twirling, return to gaze upon Huntcliff Nab.

I love the whimsical nod to days gone by in these mosaics. It’s an easy enough stroll. Come with me and I’ll show you how it all looks this winter.

Followers of this blog will be no strangers to Saltburn. We’ve walked here together before. I hadn’t really intended to take you there today, but my husband was measuring the garden of a lovely old Grade II listed house, in the town. With a couple of hours to kill, I wasn’t going to waste an opportunity, now was I?

Let’s start with a look at some of the quirky shop fronts. Browsing here is seldom dull. See anything you like?

That’s quite enough of indulgence. Keep that pie and mash shop in mind for later. The owner looks very welcoming. First we need a little bracing air. It’s not too cold today, evidenced by the numbers on the beach. The cliff lift stands lonely in silhouette, steps taking us down to the shoreline.

No yarn bombing on the pier, as yet, but I’m sure that it will arrive in the summer. Remember Alice, from last year?

The beach stretches off into the distance. Children stamp and twirl gleefully on the sand. Dog walkers are out in abundance. A couple of opportunists sweep the beach in search of treasure. Their find, multi-coloured pebbles, unwinking, except where caught in a flowing stream. A life scored deep within their grooves and whorls. Strands of seaweed, unfurling briny curls.

It’s time to turn and head back beside the crumbling cliffs. Filigree patterns beneath the pier, and above, a bench to read on or simply watch the ebb and flow of tide.

There’s a lovely corner cafe, beside Cat Nab, just before you reach the brig. You can watch the stream gushing into Valley Gardens from the outdoor terrace. It’s a little muddy through there today. So much rain in recent times! It’s a steep pull back up to the cliff top, where you’ll be welcomed by the Victorian wicker family. Some kind soul has knit them poppy buttonholes.

That’s it for another week! Pie and mash, or did you indulge at the corner cafe? Time to put the kettle on now, and join my walking friends.

Huge thanks, as always, to my contributors, and to those of you who simply like to keep me company. If you’d like to join in at any time, details are on my Jo’s Monday walk page. Just click on the logo above.

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Anabel goes in search of sunshine this week :

Bermuda : Somerset to the Dockyard

Geoff’s in Dulwich, looking at the definition of village :

Village Life

Amy’s found the most beautiful restaurant!

Monday Walk : Ybor City

Funny how some names always conjure up a song. Any Steely Dan fans out there?

Day 1- Guadalajara

Good to welcome somebody new to the walks, so please head for Scotland and say ‘hi’ to Smidge :

Winter in the Botanics

Jude’s left her plants, temporarily, for a bit of a tongue twister this week :

Scrobbesbyrig/Shrewsbury : a look at stone buildings

Among many other talents, Nicole is an accomplished hiker. Just take a look!

Best Hikes in Tucson : Bear Canyon’s hike to Seven Falls

Drake is in romantic mood. Who wouldn’t be, in Venice?

L’atmosphere noire

A head for heights and a sense of humour are what you’ll need on Esther’s walk :

Walk on a Tightrope

Or, if you’re still feeling romantic?

Walk of Love

What might you expect to see in Panama? Jaspa’s your man!

The Real San Blas Islands

I learnt a little more Welsh today, with Student in Snowdonia. ‘Yr Aran’ – The Peak :

The Peak

I like the idea of tapestries on my walls. Maybe I should try life in a castle :

Bunratty Castle- Home of an Irish King

A great selection, aren’t they? I had intended to close my walks for 2 weeks, but my lovely husband pointed out that we don’t leave for the Algarve until next Monday afternoon. Plenty of time for another, he said! It’s not the walking that’s hard. It’s keeping up with the responses. We’ll see! Have a wonderful week, meantime.

Jo’s Monday walk : Egton Bridge

This isn't actually Egton Bridge, but isn't it pretty?

This isn’t actually Egton Bridge, but it is a bridge in Egton, and a very pretty one!

And just beyond it lie two lovely sequences of stepping stones. But I’m getting ahead of myself! My walk today is for the physically fit among you but, if you like, I’ll do the hard part and you can join in on the flat. How does that sound?

We begin at the Beggar’s Bridge, just outside the village of Glaisdale, on the River Esk. It was my intention to walk you up into the village for a look around, but one of us had the good idea to follow the river in the direction of Egton Bridge. It looked fine on the map, so who was I to argue?

It’s a distinctive looking bridge, but not in use any more

Beggar’s Bridge has a tale to tell. An inscription on the bridge suggests that it was built in 1619. Thomas Ferries, the son of a moorland farmer, used to ford the River Esk to court his young lady, Agnes. The lady’s father did not consider him a suitable match for his daughter, so Thomas resolved to seek his fortune at sea. With the river in spate, he was sadly unable to cross over to kiss his sweetheart goodbye. Returning a wealthy man, Thomas of course married his Agnes, and, quite naturally, built a bridge on the very spot.

Today the crossing would have resulted in merely damp feet

‘A tale of trods and bridges’. Wouldn’t that have made a great post title? I’m tempted to change it, but I’m already well into my stride. In an uphill direction, unfortunately! This is no path that idles beside the river. I should have been warned when I saw this stone.

A message, do you suppose?

Part of this walk follows an ancient pathway, paved with stone slabs, know as ‘trods’. They are common throughout the York Moors National Park, and the oldest date back to medieval times, when monks traveled extensively hereabouts. The path I am taking, through East Arncliffe Wood, is known locally as ‘Monk’s Trod’. Those monks must have had much stronger legs than me!

Onwards and upwards!

Up I trod, thanking my lucky stars that there hadn’t been much rain to render the trods slippy. Ferns tickle my calves and a hint of honeysuckle tickles my nose. In no time at all the river is far below, and I am surrounded by dense green.

A tickle of honeysuckle

And one of fern

And look what I found, in a clearing!

An ancient tribute to man’s best friend

Beyond the trods the path continues to wind and dip through the woods. I can hear the whine and clunk of loggers, striving to keep the forest in check. Just as I am starting to tire, the woods part and I am out on a country lane. I can’t say I’m sorry. It’s now just a case of rolling down into the village of Egton Bridge, past another ford, and a cottage or two. A good time to join me!

Nearby the ford

Speaks for itself!

And it’s pretty woodshed

On the edge of the village I spot this promising sight over the hedge

But then a sign catches my eye

You know what happens next, don’t you? The highlight of the walk for me. I didn’t even know that there were stepping stones at Egton Bridge, but my good friend Jude remarked that she had stayed there when her boys were small. She remembered some stepping stones, but thought they might have been the ones I featured in my Lealholm walk. To my great delight, I found not just one set of stepping stones, but two.

The first stepping stones, in dappled shade

And the second set

With a few colourful toadstools

And these beautiful phlox, alongside a small lock gate

After a wander around the pretty village, I’m beckoned by the sunny benches outside the Horseshoe Hotel. It seems like a good time to pause for food, before tackling the route back to Glaisdale. There’s a Specials board beside the bar, and the sandwiches come with wonderful homemade wedges. The river chatters along in the background.

Before leaving Egton Bridge, I’m drawn to the garden at St. Hedda’s Church, and the memorial shrine to Father Nicholas Postgate. A Catholic priest, he was executed at York in 1679 for his work in the priesthood, on the Moors.

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Then I’m happy to retrace my path over the stepping stones, and follow the River Esk out of the village. The beatific scene lulls me into a false sense of security. A vintage car tootles past. I fail to realise that an uphill clamber lies ahead.

This chap says nothing!

I could have lingered

But it’s time to leave the river and climb

A well disguised footpath leads off to the left, almost at the top of the bank, and steeply up to a stile. Through the woods, there’s a field or two to cross, but then it’s all downhill.

And finally I'm within sight of the Beggar's Bridge

And finally the Beggar’s Bridge is back in sight!

Details of my walk can be found on this link which includes a free downloadable map. It’s a 5 mile circular and you’ll be just in time for the Gooseberry Show at Egton Bridge if you hurry. It takes place on the first Tuesday in August every year.

I hope you enjoyed the walk (especially my uphill bits), and that you’ll stay for coffee and a read.

Many thanks for all your support. Last week was a bumper week for shares, but it’s a little less strenuous this week. I’d love you to join me, whenever you feel like taking a stroll. Details are on the logo above and my Jo’s Monday walk page. Feet up, and here we go!

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Sample the delights of Corsica with Drake. I wish I could!

Simplicity isn’t bad at all

Getting one of your 5 ‘e’s or a little exercise? Many thanks, Anabel!

The Dunmore Pineapple

The foodies among you will LOVE this one from Junk Boat Travels :

Weekend cooking Union Station

Share Elisa’s delicious flower photography. What a privilege! Healthy too!

Back to the garden, and a Monday Walk

You all know Jude’s an advocate for Cornwall. Have a look and see why:

On the Edge

Boats, reflections, blue sky… you have to know I’m in heaven with this one. Thanks, Ruth!

Franklin on the Huon River

And if, as here, it’s raining and you have time on your hands, why not join the folks at Monday Escapes? I met some lovely people there last week. Happy walking all! See you next week.

Six word Saturday

Alice in… Saltburn-by-the-Sea

Just hanging about on Saltburn pier!

I could have chosen a better day to visit Saltburn, but the sun was shining when I left home. At least I didn’t have to elbow my way through the crowds, but the wind had Alice and her friends bobbing about a bit! Still good fun, though. See how many characters you can recognise?

Of course, there was tea!

And cake

Or jam tarts?

Even a slice of Battenberg!

The house kept falling over

So I had to enlist a hand!

By invitation only

But at least there’s plenty of time!

Not the Ugly Bug Ball!

Don’t forget to click on the smaller photos for details!

This cat has an evil grin

And somebody’s been painting the roses red

Maybe these guys?

Surely not?

Tears before supper?

Ready to tackle the shell food!

Oh dear!

Looks like hard work

What’s going on here?

Do be careful!

I don’t want to miss anything!

Are you talking to me?

I’m feeling just a little cross!

It’s been delightful so far

We’re just hangers on, dear!

It’ll end in tears!

I had such fun playing with these guys! Each year Saltburn comes up trumps with its yarn bombing, whatever the weather. I hope you enjoyed it too. Thanks to Elaine for reminding me, because I almost forgot.

Have a happy weekend, won’t you, and don’t forget to pop in on Cate at Show My Face with your ‘six’ words. See you Monday!

Looking up, looking down- in Whitby!

Looking down on Saltwick Nab

The cliff tops at Whitby are a great place from which to look down. Can you see those two tiny specks of people way out in the bay? The tide was as low as I’ve ever seen it, and I think that they might have been seeking fossils, normally hidden beneath the waves.

The Nab is beautiful as the light catches the hump of its back

Click on a photo to open the gallery

Withstanding the rub of the sea

What might lie beneath these rock pools?

These two are keen to find out

What stories these rocks could tell

As we approach the outstretched arms of the pier at Whitby

Stories of shipwrecks

And of pirates!

At the bottom of Whitby’s 199 steps (I never remember to count) W. Hamond is Whitby’s original jet shop, established in 1860. The jewellery looks fabulous, and nowadays there’s a tea shop, if you don’t mind a few more steps. Or there’s always icecream! For once I had a project in mind as I was walking around. As I paused to look up at some cherubs on the HSBC building, an elderly gentlemen grasped me by the arm. ‘You should come inside’ he said, leading me firmly through the heavy doorway. The old carved wood was highly polished and beautiful (and the bank clerks totally ignored me), but the ceiling was the surprise. Who would have thought?

Click on a photo for a closer look

Looking up- doesn’t the window box look good?

Or maybe the icecream looks better?

Looking up!

The HSBC building

I wonder what the ceiling’s like in this one?

And the project I had in mind? Joining lovely Debbie on Travel with Intent. She spends her Thursdays looking up and looking down. This week she has some wonderful photos of the Forth Rail Bridge, and it’s week 96 of the challenge. What are you waiting for?

So let's finish with a look up at the abbey

Let’s just finish with a look up at the Abbey

And down those steps!

Jo’s Monday walk : Surprised at Skinningrove

Dedicated to Skinningrove Homing Society

Skinningrove used to be a bit of an ugly duckling. Situated on the north east coast of England, midway between picturesque Staithes and Saltburn-by-the Sea, it has fierce competition in the beauty stakes. You have to turn off the coast road to go looking for it, and many would not trouble. The village is trying to attract it’s share of revenue from tourism and, with the help of a leaflet entitled ‘Skinningrove Valley Trail’, that’s where we’ll be walking today.

Our start point is by the jetty, built in the 1880s to serve the ironworks which is the reason for the village’s existence. My leaflet describes it as looking forlorn, but funding has been acquired to renovate the jetty. The process was just beginning at the time of my walk.

The beach by the jetty

Crossing Skinningrove Beck

A straggle of houses and fishing boats decorate the shoreline. A fisherman nods ‘good morning’ and carries on painting his tired looking boat, soon to have a new lease of life. Crossing Skinningrove Beck into the village we come swiftly upon the tribute to the Homing Pigeon Society, which reminds us that using pigeons to carry messages dates back to Ancient Greece and Rome. Locally the birds are known for their heroic activities in World War II.

Moving into the village, we head along Stone Row

With its pretty cottage gardens

Across the beck from Stone Row you can see man-made caves, which were carved out to shelter hospital patients when bombing raids took place during the war. And then the first of my ‘surprises’. On the bridge, a mosaic which illustrates the story of the village.

A few 'tangoing' poppies, a bench and the tip of an anchor

A few ‘tango-ing’ poppies, a bench and the tip of a rusting anchor

And looking back, the man-made caves

The Square is a designated Conservation Area. Former Timm’s Coffee House stands importantly on the corner, now converted to a guest house, ‘Moonfleet’, rather sadly. Part of the building is Grade II listed, having started life in 1704 as Skinningrove Hall. In the 19th century it was developed as a hotel by the Maynard family, who named it Timm’s Coffee House after the coffee houses that were then popular in London.

An ‘unusual’ enough bench, for Jude?

Another of my ‘surprises’ coming up next. I spent many a happy minute exclaiming over the mosaics on the side of Riverside Building. It began life as a school in 1884 and remained so till the late 1990s. Since then it has become a base for community projects and activities, and is run by a group of volunteers. I pop back for a cuppa and a gossip with the locals at the end of my walk, but for now let’s just enjoy the mosaics.

This one illustrates the major floods of 2000

Click on any photo to open the gallery

You may recognise the homing pigeon

The floods were extensive

Aren’t the details great?

Like the Adverse Weather team!

And the digger

The cars floating in the streets

And the rescue helicopter

The building is no work of art, but the efforts of Glynis Johnson and the school children who were involved are delightful. There are two themes- the floods and the Story of the Merman. Allegedly a ‘sea-man’ was once caught by the local fisherfolk. He lived on raw fish for a number of days but then managed to escape. Sometimes, when the sea is calm, a hideous groaning can be heard and the fishermen are afraid to go to sea!

The Story of the Merman

The floods of 2000

The village

And a watchful dog

Skinningrove was a mining village, though the evidence is harder to find these days. The rust red water in the beck vividly testifies to the presence of iron, and the remains of an entrance to the mine can still be seen. I had intended to visit the Cleveland Ironstone Mining Museum but was not convinced that I wanted to go underground. During the war the mine was regularly used for shelter, and a school log book entry for 9th September, 1915 reads “Owing to Zeppelin raid and the children having been in the mines a good part of last night, we have been obliged to close school today”.

I later discovered that the guided tour takes an hour and a half. At Christmas, Santa delivers his sack of toys along the miner’s track, without any necessity to go below ground. Maybe I’ll come back then!

Present day entrance to the mining museum

Former mine entrance

One more ‘surprise’ in store. A mural on Doorstep Green portrays ‘Evolution of Life in the Sea’. It was created by Philippa Threlfall, using materials from Skinningrove beach, and with the help of children from the former Rosecroft School.

Again, click on a photo to see it in detail

The Valley Trail climbs out of the village and across the A174 (a busy road), following the beck into Whitecliff Wood. Curiosity impelled me to take a look, but you could simply retrace your steps. Over the road I pass by an animal sanctuary, where the animals appear quite content. The adjoining house has lupins by the fence and I pause, remembering my mother, who always had roses and lupins in her garden. The trail soon peters out as the beck flows through a culvert under the railway embankment.

Following the beck

Looking back at the site of the former Kilton Mill

Into the woods

The lupins

The disappearing beck

Back in Skinningrove, I find the friendly ‘staff’ in Riverside Building in a lull between customers. I consume the cheapest toasted teacake and mug of coffee I’ve ever had, while they tell me about life in the village. Everything is done on a voluntary basis and they pool their expertise. Apparently a little gift shop is set to open up soon. If you pass that way, drop in and say ‘hi’, and you can pick up a leaflet on this trail. Here they are, on Facebook.

Heading for home now, but not before I take a look at ‘Repus’- the fishing coble which serves as a memorial to those lost at sea.

Spanking new fencing adorns the seafront

And another ‘unusual bench’

Leads the way to the ‘Repus’ memorial

The coble, facing out to sea

Steering for shore

The last bench reminds me that this is the midway point along the Cleveland Way, a 110 mile walk between Helmsley and Filey. Now there’s a challenge! If you prefer something a little easier, why not drop in on Jude for her Bench challenge?

I’m a little further down the coast today, walking on the cliff tops at Whitby, so I may be late in answering your comments. I suspect you’ll have plenty to keep you busy in the meantime. Thanks for reading!

Once again I’d like to say a huge thank you to those who have contributed to making my Jo’s Monday walk a success. If you’d like to join in, click on the logo for details. Time to put the kettle on and settle back for a read. I think I need some toast, too.

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A busy spot, the Gare de L’Est! Please take your time and watch the video. Thanks, Drake!

East- entrance to Paris

Hope you had good Canada and Independence Days, all those who celebrate it!

Cee’s Which Way Challenge

Inspirational shots from Amy! She’s on holiday this week. Treats in store!

The Antelope Canyon

A lighthouse, and some stunning thrift? Cornwall, of course! Many thanks, Jude :

Pendeen Watch

Wild thyme and Lady’s Bedstraw, from Tish, but not very much sleep, unfortunately!

Return to Windmill Hill: Of Grasshopper stalking, Lady’s Bedstraw and other random discoveries

Meanwhile Pauline is up at the crack of dawn to capture the sunlight on the water :

Early morning walk along the beach…

And Ruth has gone to the other extreme. Both extremely beautiful!

A walk in the moonlight

Thank you for finding time to read these wonderful contributions. I hope I haven’t ‘wittered on’ too long. Maybe something shorter next week? (though this trail is only a mile and a half long) Grab some sun, if you can, and I’ll see you then.

Jo’s Monday walk : Peaceful Staithes

Shall we start with a bench view, in Staithes?

You can probably guess how this post is going to go, from my opening shot. This month Jude is featuring benches ‘by the beach’ in her Bench challenge. It just so happens that on a windy, partially sunny day this week I had the good fortune to be in Staithes. It’s one of North Yorkshire’s more characterful seaside villages, with houses tumbling pell-mell down the cliffs. And, importantly, it has a good collection of benches.

Shall I share them now, then we can go walking?

A ‘plaice’ to bear in mind for your lunchtime fish and chips?

Click on any image to see the galleries in detail

Here are a few of the pub benches

And this is the beach they look down on

Or you can look in the opposite direction

There are benches for those who just like a view

Benches for readers

And even for those who like to be near the icecream van

Everything looks better in the sunshine but those railings do need a coat of paint

Now that we’ve established where you can eat, or just sit and enjoy the view, let’s go back up to the clifftop where my walk starts. There’s a car park up there and a nice little TI- not always open because it’s staffed by volunteers. (another job I’d like!)

A map is always helpful

As Jude will know, we are in James Cook territory. Cook had his first employment in Staithes, for a local merchant named William Sanderson, whose quayside shop was destroyed by a violent storm in the early 19th century. Materials from this shop may have been used in the construction of the new premises in Church St., now known as Cook’s Cottage. A footpath leads off to your right from the top of the village and descends gently between a hodge podge of houses. Beyond the rooftops the cliffs stand guard, keeping a watchful eye on the sea.

Little garden niches hug the cottages

Some grander than others

With a garden wall and a frog

Below, the sea waits patiently

Descending, the steps squeeze between the houses

Some nicely manicured

Others sharing their garden indiscriminately

Many with a nautical theme

Like this porthole

Communal living

In a confined space

Reminders of the sea, a constant

In the harbour there’s a sense of drama. These cliffs can both shelter and entrap. Today not even the chimes of the icecream van disturb the peace, but a wind whips the sand in little flurries. I try to capture the movement with my camera but it craftily eludes me.

Can you feel the motion in the sand?

And yet, looking back, all is calm

The boats sleeping peacefully on the shore

The baskets, empty

Time to climb back up to the cliff top. Dawdle up Church St. and, if you like, pop into the Arts and Crafts Centre. It has a lovely little garden at the rear.

Follow the sign

And here’s the pretty garden

And another bench (but not beside the beach)

The crafts are lovely too

On the cliff top you can join the Cleveland Way– 110 miles of walking, much of it beside the sea. I don’t suggest that you do all of it right now, but I can give you a glimpse of what you might find up there. It stretches from the hub of Helmsley- a totally different kind of village- inland and down the coast to Filey. I spent most of my childhood holidays on this coast and I love to return.

Church St.- home to Cook’s Cottage and the Arts and Crafts Centre

Heading for the cliff top

The gorse is blooming

I like these National Trust signs

And these guys were lovely

Completely intent on the job in hand

It was blustery on the cliff tops so I didn’t stay long. A path off to your left will bring you round behind the village and back to the car park, or you can simply retrace your steps. Another Monday, another walk! I hope you’ve enjoyed this one, and please don’t forget to seek out those benches for Jude.

Again I have some wonderful shares for you so thank you very much to all who support me and contribute. You are my happy band of walkers. Details of how you can join in Jo’s Monday walks are on the logo above. Time to rest those weary legs and put the kettle on for a good read.

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I can always make time for a day trip. How about you? The company’s good!

Day Tripper

It’s many years since I was in beautiful Salzburg. Debbie had much better weather :

Sunny Stroll along the Salzach

Blossom to die for! (or is that a tad melodramatic?) Gorgeous, anyway! Thanks, Violet :

Sakura in the sunshine

Speaking of sunshine, anyone been to Scotland lately? Cheers, Anabel!

Sunny Dunny : Dunbar

I know that Jude loves the Cornish beaches and sunshine, but the gardens? Just fabulous!

Garden Portrait : Tremenheere

And while we’re looking at Spring sunshine, let’s visit Meg in Warsaw and those cute ladybugs of hers!

Another day of Spring glory

Praga is a little known area in Warsaw. This guided tour is fascinating.

Across to the Dark Side

More conjectures and Thames footpath with Geoff :

The Thames Path- Bablock Hythe to Oxford

And Amy, enjoying nature and sharing so beautifully :

Monday Walk

Prepare yourselves! It’s tumbling time! You’ll enjoy this terrific post from Yvette (did you catch the icecream man, hon?)

Force of Nature- walk with Jo

A little more sedately, Jaspa tackles some history, ‘down Panama way’ :

A stroll through Old Panama City, Part 1- Panama Viejo

Down in the southern hemisphere, thoughts are turning to Autumn :

Day 3 of the road trip and we revisit Eastwoodhill

Brilliant, aren’t they? I hope you have a happy week. It’s a Bank Holiday in the UK next weekend but I’ll still be here. Hope that you will be too.

Jo’s Monday walk : Rievaulx Abbey

Gazing heavenward at Rievaulx Abbey, North Yorkshire

It was quite hard to decide which walk to take you on this week. The weather’s been so unseasonably kind and I’ve been out and about a lot. I will be missing next Monday and I wanted to leave you with some beautiful images. It’s probably hard to find anywhere more beautiful than Rievaulx Abbey in North Yorkshire.

Spring was just beginning to tap on my door, and the Abbey was newly opened for the season when I made my visit- the first in many years! I had quite forgotten the majesty of the place. In the silence, I could almost hear the monks at prayer.

Approaching the Abbey

I hate to mention it, but that's a nice-looking bench

I hate to mention it, but that’s a well-situated bench

I just know you want a close up!

Founded in 1132, Rievaulx Abbey was the first Cistercian abbey to be built in the north of England. Situated just 3 miles from the village of Helmsley, in the North York Moors National Park, still it feels remarkably remote. The location, sheltered by hills in the valley of the River Rye, was ideal for the Cistercians, who valued a strict life of prayer and self sufficiency with little contact with the outside world.

Looking through into the Infirmary Cloister

An exquisitely shaped doorway

The Cloister Green, seen through the Arcade

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In order to have enough flat land to build on, the monks diverted part of the river several metres west of its original channel. It astounded me to find that during the 12th century, they diverted the course of the river three times. Such was the ingenuity of the monks, who over time built up a profitable business mining lead and iron ore. They reared sheep and sold the wool throughout Europe. Rievaulx grew to be one of the wealthiest abbeys in England. With 140 monks and many more lay brothers, it was a far cry from its devout beginnings. By the 15th century the strict observance of Cistercian practises had been abandoned in favour of a more comfortable lifestyle.

The South Transept

Henry VIII was, of course, delighted to take advantage of this prosperity when he dissolved the abbey in 1538. The 72 buildings alleged to have been in existence at that time were stripped of their assets and rendered uninhabitable. Today the still substantial abbey ruins are in the care of English Heritage. High on the hillside overlooking them sit two Grecian-style temples. These were added in the 1750s by Thomas Duncombe, and are now in the care of the National Trust. Just a glimpse is visible on my walk.

You might well want to linger in the Visitor Centre, which has a pleasant cafe (with good cake!) looking out on the ruins. Picnic tables will make this a popular spot in Summer. It’s much too early to return to the car so I’d like you to accompany me on a circular walk, along the river to Bow Bridge. A website I have used before Where 2 walk will provide you with a little map, but the 2 and a half mile route is quite straightforward. We can eat when we get back- I promise!

Walk towards Rievaulx village to a signpost on your left

Here it is!

The river is down to your left

And Bow Bridge is not too far ahead

Follow the tidy hedge and here we are

Cross over the bridge and take the footpath to your left and you will initially be following the opposite bank of the River Rye. A signpost saying ‘Ashberry’ points the way across a field, and the path begins on a gentle incline.

Past a handsome bare-branched tree

The trees still wear their winter moss blankets

Early primroses peak through the tree roots

The bareness reveals strange shapes in the woods

The path climbs a little steeply for a short stretch and, through the trees, you can just make out the outline of the Abbey down below. As we start to descend, a bench catches my eye.

What a lovely inscription

Alone with the daffodils

And the view…

Looking back, above the trees, you can just make out a Rievaulx Temple

Looking back, above the trees, you can just make out one of the Rievaulx Temples

The path ends at ‘Ashberry’- a large farmhouse

Set in lovely grounds

The sign points the way

One more bridge, a pretty riverside garden and, around a bend in the road, the Abbey. The cafe’s in sight. I feel a need for Yorkshire curd tart. I did promise, didn’t I?

A little pop of colour

A thatched cottage

And one last bench, with a view

The English Heritage website will give you full details of opening times for the Abbey and how to get there. Rievaulx is a charming village too, but very steep!

You might already have guessed that I’m linking this walk to Jude’s Bench challenge. This month’s theme is ‘a bench with a view’ and I think that I found a few. Sorry, Jude, but I don’t have time for a separate post because on Wednesday I’m off to the Algarve.

I won’t have a Monday walk for you next week, but please feel free to share your walks. I will include them on 20th April, when I hope to be posting about the wild daffodils in Farndale, planted originally by monks. Details of how to join in are on my Jo’s Monday walk page.

After that, I’m off to Poland again, with Dad, but that’ll be another story (and a whole lot more photos!) Surely time to get that kettle on and enjoy these posts! Many thanks to all my wonderful contributors.

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I didn’t manage to do this on my Paris trip so many thanks, Debbie :

A stroll around Montparnasse

A little bit of Spring magic with Gilly next :

The Chalice Well Garden in Glastonbury

Amy takes us to a perfectly manicured park (and there’s Easter eggs!)

Monday Walk

Drake tickled my fancy with boats. Knows the way to my heart, that one!

Idyllic Harbor Blues

Back to old Holborn haunts, with Geoff :

My kinda town

I have a new word for Spring. Frivolicious! 🙂 Thanks, Jesh!

April Frivolicious

Urban planning seems to be an issue at Violet Sky’s :

Street Signs- Old

But beauty abounds at Paula’s place!

A scene from Hyde Park

I refuse to take a walk with an alligator for anybody- even Yvette!

Windows and Doors in RVA

We’ll end with Tobias’ interesting outlook on Hamburg :

2/3 Faces of Hamburg

Don’t forget- I won’t be here next Monday! Hope to see you on 20th April. Meantime, lots and lots of happy walking! (and please take some bench shots for Jude)

Six word Saturday

Just a last remnant of Christmas!

On New Year’s Eve I paid a visit to St. Mary’s Church in Whitby. High on the cliff top, the chilly graveyard looks out to sea but, at this time of year, inside the church is bathed in a warm glow.

It’s the light of numerous Christmas trees, contributed by the community, and a huge boost to the church funds. If you’re lucky you might even catch a carol service.

There are some beautiful Advent scenes

And a wealth of ornaments

Such as these

And this cute guy

And his little friends

Quite adorable, aren’t they?

Can you see the hummingbird?

The close up wasn’t so great!

And, naturally, there were owls

A last dusting of WordPress snow sets them off rather nicely. I saw a little of the real thing on the road across the Moors- but not much! I guess you know now where my Monday walk will be taking us next week? Winter woollies will be required.

Until then, enjoy your weekend, and don’t forget to call in on Cate at Show My Face. You wouldn’t want her to play Six Word Saturday all alone, would you?

restlessjo

Roaming, at home and abroad

North Yorkshire

Six word Saturday

Never promised you a rose garden

Jo’s Monday walk : Lambkins and bikes!

Jo’s Monday walk : Saltburn in Winter

Jo’s Monday walk : Egton Bridge

Six word Saturday

Alice in… Saltburn-by-the-Sea

Looking up, looking down- in Whitby!

Jo’s Monday walk : Surprised at Skinningrove

Jo’s Monday walk : Peaceful Staithes

Jo’s Monday walk : Rievaulx Abbey

Six word Saturday

Just a last remnant of Christmas!

Never promised you a rose garden

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Alice in… Saltburn-by-the-Sea

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Just a last remnant of Christmas!

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