UK & Worldwide Travel, Photos and Walking Guides
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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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The quaint coastal hamlet of Staithes has a small harbour and is full of character. Traditional fishing cobbles still work out of the harbour setting crab and lobster pots. The harbour area is great to explore on foot and is a real jumble of white-washed cottages, arranged in no particular order. There are lots of alleyways and stepped ginnels to explore. There aren’t many house numbers in the village, most just have names, much to…
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York Minster is located in the centre of York and dominates the city. It is Northern Europe’s largest medieval cathedral and England’s largest gothic cathedral. As well as the Minster itself, there is the octagonal Chapter House, undercroft, treasury and crypt to explore. If you are feeling energetic and have a spare five pounds (this is in addition to the normal admission charge), a climb up the 275 steps of the massive central tower will…
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I used to be a frequent traveller through the Castle Howard estate, I lived nearby. I must have passed this site hundreds of times without really giving it a lot of thought. What a gem I had been missing. Truth is I probably wasn’t sure what an arboretum was either! An arboretum is simply a botanical collection which is made up of trees. Generally, it is intended to be a place for scientific study. Just…
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The extensive sandstone ruins of Fountains Abbey are located in the wooded valley of the River Skell. On the same 800 acre site is the Georgian water garden of Studley Royal complete with statues, follies and amazing views. The site is also home to the Elizabethan Fountains Hall and the Victorian St Mary’s Church. You can easily spend a whole day exploring the Abbey ruins and other buildings, not forgetting the Deer Park as well….
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