Exploring the UK Archives - Michael B Shannon

Arbor Low Stone Circle and Gib Hill Barrow

Posted on 19th January 202019th January 2020 by Michael

Introduction Arbor Low has been called the Stonehenge of the Peak District. This Neolithic henge monument is a very atmospheric place constructed on high moorland and not dissimilar to the monument in Avebury, Wiltshire. Like Avebury, it has a henge bank and ditch, a stone circle and central stone ‘cove’. Close by is Gib Hill, a large burial mound. At first glance, Arbor Low is not as impressive as its more well known Wiltshire counterpart….

Stonehenge Stone Circle

Posted on 16th January 202019th January 2020 by Michael

Introduction I have always had a fascination with ancient places and stone circles in particular. The Castlerigg Stone Circle in the Lake District and the Arbor Low Stone Circle in the Derbyshire Peak District are places I’ve visited. The circle at Callanish on the west coast of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides, Scotland is still on my list of top places to visit. Of course, the most famous circle is Stonehenge. For a long time,…

York – Clifford’s Tower

Posted on 1st January 20202nd January 2020 by Michael

Much of the layout and history of York originates from the Roman and Viking periods. One iconic feature of the city, however, is from the Norman period. The original mound that Clifford’s Tower stands on originally had a timber structure on the top. In 1068 William the Conqueror had this built as a statement of his power over the region. This original building stood for over a hundred years. This was destroyed in a fire…

Yorkshire Coast – Picture Galleries

Posted on 22nd December 201922nd December 2019 by Michael

The Yorkshire coastline has a variety of different coastal landscapes. As you explore the coast you’ll find; tiny fishing villages sitting under rocky cliffs; large stretches of sandy beaches, family-friendly seaside resorts and historic ruins. The coastline runs from the Tees Estuary in the north down to the Humber estuary in the south. This used to sit within the East and North Ridings of Yorkshire. However, in 1974 the boundaries were changed and the northern…

Mount Grace Priory

Posted on 18th December 201919th December 2019 by Michael

Mount Grace Priory sits in an idyllic location surrounded by woodland. It can be found at the foot of the Cleveland Hills in the north-west of the North Yorkshire Moors National Park. However, it is easily accessible by car as it is only a short distance from the A19, not far from Northallerton. It is well signposted with Brown Signs. The site is probably one of England’s best-preserved Carthusian monasteries. With fine weather, a visit…

Filey Beach – new photos (Huawei P30 Pro)

Posted on 11th December 201918th December 2019 by Michael

If like me you like to photograph your travels and walks, you have possibly considered using an SLR camera versus using a mobile phone. Many of the photos in this blog have been shot with a Nikon SLR camera. For years, I have put up with carrying a bag full of equipment in order to get decent quality images. However, I have been considering buying the Huawei P30 Pro mobile phone for some time. I…

Treasurer’s House, York

Posted on 1st December 201928th December 2019 by Michael

Treasurer’s House at the back of York Minster is a peaceful place compared to the busy Minster nearby. The gardens are quiet, very well maintained and arranged around a central lawned area. They also benefit from the stunning backdrop of York Minster on one side. It is the perfect spot to get away from the bustle in summer and find a quiet spot to enjoy your lunch. Treasurer’s House – Picture Gallery Click on any…

Walk from Robin Hood’s Bay to Whitby

Posted on 29th November 201929th November 2019 by Michael

Robin Hood’s Bay sits on the Cleveland Way and is also the finish (or start) of the famous 192 mile Coast to Coast walk devised by Alfred Wainwright. The Cleveland Way from Ravenscar to Robin Hood’s Bay is described elsewhere on this blog. This particular walk of about six and a half miles to Whitby is mostly along the clifftop and offers some amazing views of Robin Hood’s Bay and Saltwick Bay. The walk undulates…

Museum Gardens, Yorkshire Museum and St Mary’s Abbey, York

Posted on 23rd November 201928th December 2019 by Michael

Museum Gardens The Museum Gardens are five minutes walk from the Minster in the centre of York. The Gardens are named after the Yorkshire Museum which is built on the remains of St Mary’s Abbey. The gardens are free and open most days except Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. Entrances to the gardens are located at the side of the Art Gallery, Museum Street, at the side of King’s Manor, Marygate and…

Nostell Priory, near Wakefield, South Yorkshire (with Photos)

Posted on 10th November 201921st November 2019 by Michael

A visit to Nostell Priory can easily take up a whole day as there is plenty to see and explore. Wear shoes suitable for walking as you may end up walking quite far if you want to fully explore all the parkland. Dogs on a lead are welcome and there are several dedicated dog walking areas around the grounds. Bring a picnic and enjoy lunch in one of the gardens or parkland areas. How to…

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