The Enigmatic Rain Stone at Blackstone Edge

 Venturing onto the wild and windswept moors of Blackstone Edge is an experience that connects you with a landscape of raw, untamed beauty. Tucked away on this ancient route, straddling the border between Yorkshire and Lancashire, is a fascinating geological feature known as the Rain Stone. It’s a place where history, folklore, and the rugged grandeur of the Pennines converge.

The journey to the Rain Stone is part of the adventure. The path, sometimes muddy and marked by puddles from recent showers, winds its way across the open moorland. Flanked by vibrant green grasses and low-lying heather, the track feels like a ribbon weaving through a vast, undulating expanse. In the distance, the modern giants of power pylons and wind turbines stand as a stark, yet intriguing, contrast to the timeless landscape. There’s a quiet majesty to the scene, a sense of solitude broken only by the sound of the wind.

But it's the Rain Stone itself that truly captivates. This dramatic gritstone outcrop rises from the hillside, its weathered layers sculpted by millennia of wind and rain. The topmost rock, perched precariously, looks as though it could topple at any moment, a natural balancing act that has stood for centuries. The stone’s dark, striated face tells a story of geological time, a silent witness to the countless seasons that have passed over the moors.

Legend and local lore swirl around the Rain Stone. Its name is said to come from its function as a kind of weather predictor; a damp stone would signal coming rain, while a dry one meant the weather would hold. Whether this is true or simply a charming piece of local history, the name perfectly captures the essence of the place. The weather on Blackstone Edge is famously changeable, and a day can bring sunshine, clouds, and a sudden downpour, all in a matter of hours.

Walking further along the path, you can appreciate the scale of the landscape. The moors stretch out in every direction, a patchwork of greens and browns that reach towards the horizon. The views are expansive, and on a clear day, you can see for miles. A small, stone-arched bridge crosses a narrow stream, a simple but elegant piece of stonework that seems perfectly at home in its surroundings.

The Rain Stone at Blackstone Edge is more than just a rock; it is a landmark, a focal point, and a symbol of the enduring power of nature. It’s a place for quiet reflection, for feeling the immense scale of the natural world, and for escaping the noise of everyday life. If you're looking for a hike with a sense of history and a touch of the dramatic, the journey to the Rain Stone is a walk you won't forget.

I took these pictures with a Nikon d3300 on the 27th May 2025, clicking on any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Please take a moment to share this post, follow me on social media, and explore my work on Clickasnap and Photo4Me using the links below. Your support means a lot!

All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Light Hazzles Reservoir: A Tranquil Escape on Blackstone Edge

 Light Hazzles Reservoir: A Tranquil Escape on Blackstone Edge

On May 27, 2025, I ventured out to Blackstone Edge, a magnificent gritstone escarpment on the border of Greater Manchester and West Yorkshire, to explore the serene beauty of Light Hazzles Reservoir. Nestled amidst the dramatic Pennine landscape, this reservoir offers a peaceful retreat with breathtaking views and a sense of rugged isolation.

The weather was typical for a late spring day in the Pennines – a mix of dramatic clouds scudding across a bright sky, offering moments of brilliant sunshine and moody shadows. This ever-changing light only enhanced the already stunning scenery.

The Journey to Serenity

Our exploration began with panoramic views from higher up on Blackstone Edge. From this vantage point, the vast expanse of Greater Manchester stretched out before us, a sprawling urban tapestry contrasting sharply with the verdant foreground. In the mid-ground, a glimpse of the reservoirs, including Light Hazzles, could be seen, hinting at the tranquillity that awaited.

As we descended towards the reservoir, the vastness of the landscape truly enveloped us, capturing another impressive vista, showcasing the Crook Hill Wind Farm in the distance.

The stark white turbines, set against the rolling hills and dramatic clouds, served as a reminder of the region's commitment to renewable energy, yet somehow felt harmonious with the wildness of the moorland.

Exploring Light Hazzles Reservoir

Upon reaching Light Hazzles Reservoir itself, the sense of peace was immediate. The water, reflecting the shifting clouds, shimmered with an almost ethereal quality, with the path leading alongside it and the prominent electricity pylons marching across the horizon – a testament to the coexistence of nature and infrastructure in these parts. The slightly exposed banks hinted at varying water levels, adding to the rugged charm.

Walking along the well-maintained path that passes the northern edge of the reservoir was a true delight, with the gravel track winding its way beside the water, inviting a leisurely stroll. The gentle ripples on the water's surface and the sparse, resilient vegetation along the banks created a sense of understated beauty.

Further along the reservoir curves gently, revealing more of its expansive waters. The rocky banks, characteristic of the Pennine landscape, add to the natural feel, providing a habitat for various moorland plants. The distant pylons are still a feature, a familiar part of the Pennine skyline.

One of the striking features encountered was a stone structure in the middle of the water, This intriguing element adds a focal point to the wide expanse of water and sparks curiosity about its purpose. Perhaps it's an old measuring station or part of the reservoir's original construction.

The open, unadulterated views across the water and the surrounding moorland emphasize the remote and tranquil nature of this location.

A Highly Recommended Walk

Light Hazzles Reservoir on Blackstone Edge is a fantastic destination for anyone seeking a refreshing escape into nature. Whether you're a keen hiker looking to explore the Pennine Way (which passes nearby) or simply someone who appreciates stunning landscapes and peaceful walks, this reservoir offers it all. The views are expansive, the air is fresh, and the sense of calm is palpable.

Next time you're looking for an invigorating outdoor experience, consider a trip to Light Hazzles Reservoir. You won't be disappointed!

Clicking any of the images above should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Please taek a moment to share this post, follow me on social media, and explore my work on Clickasnap and Photo4Me using the links below. Your support means a lot!

All the images remain the copyright of Colin green.