Showing posts with label England. Show all posts
Showing posts with label England. Show all posts

Tuesday, 27 January 2026

From Cooper Bridge to Brighouse on the Calder & Hebble

 The Calder & Hebble Navigation isn't just a stretch of water; it's a living timeline, carving its way through the heart of West Yorkshire's industrial landscape. My recent walk, capturing the route from Cooper Bridge towards Brighouse, offered a profound look at how centuries of industry and modern engineering coexist with the quiet, reflective beauty of a working waterway.

Cooper Bridge: Where Industry Meets the River

The walk begins near Cooper Bridge, a historically important junction on the old road network. Here, the immediate scenery is dominated by the ghosts of industry and the hard lines of modern infrastructure.

A wide landscape shot of a calm canal. On the right bank, a large, multi-story brick industrial mill stands with a very tall, slender chimney featuring a communications array at the top. The mill and chimney are perfectly reflected in the still water. Bare winter trees frame the left side, with sunlight filtering through the branches.

  • The Mill and the Chimney: One of the most striking initial views is the reflection of the large Victorian mill building and its towering chimney in the water . This classic image encapsulates the Industrial Revolution's legacy in the Calder Valley—textiles, coal, and transport, all powered by the river and the canal. The water, calm and dark, acts as a perfect mirror, doubling the building's impressive scale.

A view looking down the length of the canal. The sun is high, creating a bright haze and shimmering reflections on the water's surface. A fallen tree branch reaches into the water from the left. On the right, green industrial warehouses and a tall chimney sit behind a fence along the canal bank. Rolling green hills are visible in the far distance.

  • The Sunlit Cut: Moving away from the heavier industrial backdrop, the canal narrows and the banks become greener, though remnants of manufacturing are still visible. The sunlight catches the water, giving a brief glimpse of the navigation’s serene side.

The Overheads: Bridging Eras of Transport

As you progress through Kirklees, the landscape dramatically changes, showcasing the monumental clash between 18th-century canal engineering and 20th-century road building.

Kirklees Railway Bridge: A Relic of Rail

A low-angle shot showing a heavy, rusted iron lattice railway bridge spanning the canal. Below the iron structure, the original stone arch bridge is visible. A moss-covered wooden fence runs along a muddy towpath in the foreground on the right. Bare tree branches crisscross the frame in front of the massive stone and metal structures.

The Kirklees Railway Bridge is a magnificent, brooding structure. Its heavy wrought-iron lattice girders, now deeply rusted and framed by winter-bare branches, speak of the great age of Victorian railway expansion. The massive, weathered stone piers of the older arches below suggest the scale of the challenge faced when spanning both the river and the navigation. This bridge is a powerful reminder that once, rail was the dominant competitor to the canal for transporting goods across the Pennines.

The M62 Viaduct: The Modern Giant

Further on, the landscape is utterly dwarfed by the immense presence of Bridge 20, carrying the M62 Motorway across the valley.

A wide-angle shot from the water's edge showing the high concrete viaduct of the M62 motorway cutting across the sky. The bridge is supported by numerous tall, slender concrete pillars that are reflected in the calm, dark water of the canal. Bare winter trees line the banks under a pale, overcast sky.

A perspective shot taken from a stone-lined sloping embankment covered in graffiti. The massive steel and concrete underside of the motorway bridge curves away into the distance. A grid of concrete pillars marches across the canal and into the wooded valley beyond.

A symmetrical view looking through the forest of concrete pillars supporting the M62. The canal flows horizontally through the center of the frame, reflecting the pillars. The base of the columns features colorful graffiti, contrasting with the industrial grey steel beams visible directly overhead.

A view along the muddy riverbank showing the massive concrete supports of the M62 viaduct on the left. The calm water of the canal stretches toward the horizon, reflecting the sky and a faint vapor trail from a plane. Dense woodland fills the background.

  • Engineering Scale: The sheer size of the concrete columns, standing like a legion of modern giants, is breath taking. Underneath the viaduct, the view is starkly different—an echoing, shadowed space that highlights the difference between human-scale canal transport and high-speed vehicular transit. The contrast is palpable: the tranquillity of the water below the thrum of thousands of cars above.

The Workings of the Waterway: Lock 14

A high-angle view framed by bare winter trees looking down at a traditional canal lock with wooden gates. The water is calm, reflecting the blue sky, and a grassy bank with a small set of wooden stairs leads down to the water’s edge. In the background, rolling wooded hills sit under a clear sky.

One of the most essential features of any navigation is its locks, and your photo of Lock 14, Kirklees Low Lock, captures the functional beauty of canal architecture. Framed by the surrounding trees and green fields, the lock is a hub of activity (or potential activity). The white-painted gates and machinery stand out against the greenery, ready to lift or lower boats. It's here that you truly appreciate the system engineered by figures like John Smeaton to make the River Calder navigable for long-distance trade.

Approaching Brighouse

The final leg of the journey takes us into the immediate vicinity of Brighouse, where the canal again meets the modern industrial fringe.

A wide shot of a weathered concrete bowstring arch bridge (Bridge 19, Blakeborough) spanning a dark canal. A grassy towpath runs along the right side of the water, bordered by tall evergreen trees. Industrial buildings and a distant electricity pylon are visible under a cloudy sky.

  • Blakeborough Bridge: Bridge 19, the Blakeborough Bridge, is a distinctive concrete arch structure, likely replacing an older crossing. Its smooth, utilitarian lines stand in sharp contrast to the rusty rail bridge encountered earlier.

A perspective view looking down a straight stretch of the Calder & Hebble Navigation. To the left is a high wall of dense green conifers; to the right, a modern grey industrial warehouse. The still water creates a mirror-like reflection of the overcast, moody sky.

A view from a bridge looking down a canal lined with a mix of brick industrial buildings and grassy embankments. An electricity pylon towers in the distance over the flat horizon, and bare trees are reflected clearly in the dark, still water.

  • A Modern Mix: The final views are a blend of the wide, straight canal cut, lined by contemporary industrial units and tall power line pylons. The calm water reflecting the vast sky and the flanking hedgerows is sandwiched between the necessities of twenty-first-century life—warehouses and electricity transmission.

This stretch of the Calder & Hebble is a superb example of a working canal that has adapted and endured. It has moved from being the lifeblood of the Industrial Revolution to a recreational and ecological corridor, all while serving as a silent museum of transport history.

The pictures were taken with a Nikon d3300 on the 23rd January 2016, clicking 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.

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Location: M7P5+MX Mirfield, UK

Sunday, 25 January 2026

Capturing the Soul of Yorkshire: Transform Your Home with Unique Local Art

Yorkshire is more than just a county; it is a feeling. From the rugged coastal charm of Whitby to the industrial grandeur of Halifax and the hidden gems along the Rochdale Canal, the "God’s Own County" offers a visual feast that has inspired artists for centuries.

I am thrilled to announce that my latest collection of Yorkshire-inspired artwork is now officially available on Zazzle. This collection isn't just about capturing a view; it’s about bringing the history, the atmosphere, and the heritage of these iconic locations into your living space. Whether you are a local resident, a homesick Yorkshire expat, or a traveller who fell in love with the North, these pieces are designed to resonate with the heart.

A Glimpse into the Collection

Each piece in this series started with a moment of inspiration—a specific play of light or a unique architectural angle. Through a careful digital watercolour and sketch process, I’ve transformed these landmarks into timeless art.

1. The Grandeur of The Piece Hall, Halifax

The Piece Hall is a masterpiece of Georgian architecture. My interpretation of this vast, open courtyard focuses on the rhythmic symmetry of the stone colonnades. It’s a piece that speaks to the industrial pride of Halifax. In its minimalist, sketched style, it fits perfectly in a modern office or a contemporary living room, offering a sense of scale and history without overwhelming the space.

A wide-angle, high-key digital sketch of the historic Piece Hall in Halifax. The image features the vast, stone-paved central courtyard surrounded by three tiers of neoclassical colonnaded galleries. A few figures are scattered across the plaza, and modern stone steps lead down into the centre. The style is minimalist with thin, delicate outlines and a very bright, almost white colour palette.

2. Heritage by the Water: Sagar Richards Arch & Rochdale Canal

Sowerby Bridge holds a special place in the heart of the Calder Valley. This artwork features the iconic Sagar Richards entrance arch standing sentinel over the Rochdale Canal. The soft watercolour textures capture the reflection in the water and the lush greenery that lines the towpath. This piece is all about tranquillity—ideal for a cosey reading nook or a hallway where you want to evoke a sense of calm.

A soft watercolour painting of the Rochdale Canal in Sowerby Bridge. The water reflects the cloudy sky and surrounding greenery, with autumn leaves floating on the surface. To the left, the stone Sagar Richards entrance arch stands as a ruins-style monument against a backdrop of trees. The artwork features feathered edges and a muted, natural colour palette of greens, greys, and earthy browns.

3. Coastal Magic: St Mary’s Church from Whitby Harbour

No Yorkshire collection is complete without Whitby. This view, looking up from the bustling harbour toward the ancient St Mary’s Church perched on the cliffside, captures the quintessential spirit of the coast. The warm tones of the terracotta roofs contrasted against the moody North Sea sky make this a standout piece for anyone who loves the salt air and the 199 steps.

A detailed ink and watercolour-style illustration of the Whitby hillside. In the foreground, the bustling harbour side is filled with historic buildings, a lifeboat station, and small figures of people on the pier. The red-tiled roofs lead the eye up the cliff to the ancient St Mary’s Church perched at the summit. The image is set against a textured paper background with artistic blue paint splashes representing the sky.

Why Choose Zazzle for Your Art?

I chose to host my shop on Zazzle because it offers you, the buyer, unparalleled flexibility. While I have curated specific formats, the platform’s advanced editing tools put the creative power in your hands.

Versatile Formats for Every Space

I offer these designs in several "standard" formats to get you started:

  • Postcards: Perfect for short notes or for creating a "mini gallery" wall.

  • 6x4 Prints: The classic photo size, easy to frame and perfect for desks or mantels.

  • Large-Scale Posters: Make a statement with high-resolution prints that capture every fine line and brushstroke.

  • Canvas Wall Art: For a premium, gallery-style look that adds texture and depth to your walls.

  • Digital Downloads: For those who want the flexibility to print at home or use the image for personal digital projects.

The Power of Customization

The real magic happens when you use the Zazzle design interface. When you click on one of my designs, you aren't limited to what you see on the screen. You can:

  • Change the Product: Love the Whitby print but want it on a throw pillow, a tote bag, or even a jigsaw puzzle? You can transfer the design to hundreds of different items with a single click.

  • Resize and Re-crop: Adjust the scale of the image to fit a specific frame you already own.

  • Add Personal Text: Want to commemorate a wedding date at The Piece Hall or a special holiday in Whitby? You can add your own text, names, or dates to the artwork to create a truly one-of-a-kind gift.

Bringing Yorkshire Home

Art is a way of telling a story about who we are and where we've been. In an age of mass-produced, generic decor, choosing a piece of local heritage art adds a layer of soul to your home.

These pieces celebrate the "grit and glory" of the North. They celebrate the way the light hits the gritstone and the way the water reflects the sky. By purchasing a print, you aren't just buying paper and ink; you're supporting independent art and keeping the stories of these locations alive.

How to Shop

Getting your hands on these prints is simple. Follow the link to my Zazzle store, browse the Yorkshire Collection, and play around with the customisation tools. Whether it's a small postcard to send to a friend or a large canvas to act as the centrepiece of your lounge, you’re only a few clicks away from owning a piece of Yorkshire.

Ready to explore the collection? C_Green_Photography: products on Zazzle

While I love the ethereal feel of my watercolour and sketched works, my creative journey always begins with the lens. If you prefer the crisp detail and raw atmosphere of the real world, I also regularly add my original photographic images to Zazzle. These photographs capture the North in its truest form—the dramatic shadows of the moors, the intricate stonework of our towns, and the ever-changing light of the coast. Just like my artistic renders, these photographs are available across Zazzle's entire product range, giving you the freedom to choose between a painterly interpretation or a striking photographic reality for your home.

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.

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Location: Yorkshire, UK

Tuesday, 20 January 2026

A Forgotten Waterway: Walking the Halifax Branch Canal

The Calder and Hebble Navigation is one of Yorkshire's great industrial arteries, but one short spur holds a particularly fascinating, and largely buried, history: the Halifax Branch Canal. Recently, I took a walk along the small, navigable section that remains today, from Salterhebble Top Lock to the Salterhebble Basin, and was inspired to look deeper into this forgotten waterway.

The Last Surviving Stretch

The walk starts where the main navigation meets the spur. The modern-day journey is short, a serene quarter-mile of placid water contrasting sharply with the busy road nearby. This short section is a peaceful haven, offering moorings and a tranquil reflection of the industrial past.

A view from the dark interior of a stone bridge looking out onto a sunlit canal. The dark, curved silhouette of the bridge arch frames a vibrant scene featuring a green and red narrowboat moored on the water. Lush green trees line the canal banks, and their reflection creates a near-perfect circle with the bridge's arch in the still water.

A sepia-toned photograph showing a wide, gravel towpath curving alongside a quiet canal toward a classic stone arch bridge. Dense foliage and tall trees overhang the water, casting soft shadows. Through the bridge's arch, a narrowboat is visible in the distance, and the entire scene is reflected in the calm surface of the canal.

The basin at Salterhebble, now a calm, boat-filled pool, was once the hive of activity for the main canal's final push towards Halifax before the branch opened. Today, it’s a spot to pause and appreciate the peaceful coexistence of nature and history.

The Buried Climb to Bailey Hall

What many people don't realise is that this short length is just the beginning of what was once a mighty, ambitious climb right into the heart of Halifax. When the branch opened in 1828, it extended for about a mile and a quarter, rising an astonishing 110 feet via 14 locks to terminate at Bailey Hall Basin, near the modern-day railway station and the former Mackintosh (now Nestlé) factory site. This monumental civil engineering feat was necessary to bring heavy goods like coal and stone directly into the thriving industrial town. The canal was crucial, as one horse could haul up to 60 tons by boat, a huge advantage over carting goods over the steep, difficult roads of the area.

A vibrant, eye-level shot of a paved canal towpath curving toward an arched stone bridge. To the right, still water reflects the dense green canopy of overhanging trees. Sunlight filters through lime-green leaves in the foreground, illuminating the grassy bank and a wooden bench in the distance.

A high-contrast, black-and-white photograph looking down a long, straight canal towpath. The canal sits to the left, bordered by wild grass and thick, dark woodland. The monochromatic tones highlight the textures of the foliage and the receding perspective of the path into the deep shadows of the trees.

An Expensive, Challenging Engineering Feat

The Halifax Branch was notoriously expensive to run. The terrain was challenging, and local mill owners were fiercely protective of the water supply in the Hebble Brook. This meant the canal company couldn't rely on the usual gravity-fed reservoirs.

The solution was a feat of ingenuity: a brick-lined culvert was built to carry water from the bottom of the arm all the way to a reservoir near the top at Phoebe Lane, where a massive steam-powered pumping engine then lifted the water to the highest level. The cost of running this engine and maintaining the long, leaky canal meant tolls were double those on the main Calder and Hebble.

A peaceful, eye-level view of a narrow canal waterway flanked by dense, vibrant green trees and foliage. A paved grey towpath runs along the left side of the murky, reflective water. In the mid-ground, a stone bridge abutment and a small wooden bench sit under the shade of the canopy, while sunlight filters through the leaves, creating a dappled light effect on the path and water.

The Ghosts of the Locks

The branch’s life was relatively short; it officially closed in 1942 and much of it was quickly drained and infilled. The route is now largely preserved as the Hebble Trail, a fantastic walking route that traces the canal's former path.

Walking this trail is like following a ghost. You walk over what were once the lock chambers—those well-built stone walls and depressions you see are the tops of the buried locks! It's an incredible sensation to know you're traversing a route where barges once struggled up and down a staircase of water.

Interestingly, the old structures, including bridges and the lock chambers themselves, were so robustly built that demolition would have been too costly. They were simply buried—a fascinating thought for a history enthusiast! Even the aqueduct that carried the canal over the Hebble Brook at Farrah Mill Lane still stands, though it faces problems today.

Sepia-toned view of a wooded canal towpath. Description: A sepia-filtered photograph looking down a curved asphalt towpath alongside a calm canal. Thick, leafy trees create a dense canopy over the water and path, with stone mooring posts lining the canal edge.

Colourful canal basin with moored narrowboats and stone buildings. Description: A vibrant landscape shot of a canal basin under a blue sky with light clouds. Traditional stone buildings sit on the left bank next to moored narrowboats. The still water creates a near-perfect reflection of the trees, sky, and boats. Rolling green hills are visible in the far distance.

High-contrast black and white photo of a canal bend. Description: A dramatic black and white image of a canal curving through a park-like setting. Weeping willow trees and benches line the right bank, while a narrow towpath follows the left. The glassy water surface reflects the dark trees and the bright, overcast sky, creating a symmetrical visual effect.

A Legacy of Industry and Leisure

Though its commercial life ended over 80 years ago, the spirit of the Halifax Branch lives on. The remaining section at Salterhebble serves as a reminder of the colossal ambition that shaped the West Riding's industrial landscape. The Hebble Trail ensures the route isn't completely forgotten, allowing walkers and cyclists to literally walk in the footsteps of the horse-drawn barges of old.

So next time you're in the area, don't just see the tranquil waters at Salterhebble. Take a moment to think about the 14 locks and the 110 feet of elevation that lie buried beneath your feet, connecting the busy present with a forgotten past.

A wide-angle, colour photograph of a calm canal basin. On the left bank, a traditional stone building (The Watermill pub) features a large glass conservatory that is perfectly reflected in the still, dark water. A paved towpath curves along the right side of the frame, lined with green grass and trees. The background shows a lush, wooded hillside under a bright, overcast sky.

A high-contrast, black and white photograph looking down a still stretch of canal. In the foreground, a stone-walled towpath with a metal railing sits on the left. The water creates a mirror-like reflection of the heavy foliage and trees lining both banks. In the distance, a small narrowboat is moored near a stone bridge. The composition emphasizes the textures of the masonry and the symmetry of the reflections.

I took these pictures with a Polaroid is2132 camera on the 13th June 2015, clicking 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.

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Location: 21 Bankhouse Ln, Halifax HX3 0QL, UK

Friday, 9 January 2026

Staithes: A Timeless Journey into North Yorkshire’s Most Picturesque Fishing Village

 Nestled within a steep-sided ravine where the Staithes Beck meets the fierce North Sea, the village of Staithes in North Yorkshire is more than just a destination; it is a living gallery. Once one of the busiest fishing ports in the Northeast, it now serves as a quiet sanctuary for artists, hikers, and those looking to lose themselves in a labyrinth of cobbled "ginnels" and salt-kissed history.

Whether you are arriving with a camera to capture its famous "Northern Impressionist" light or with hiking boots to conquer the Cleveland Way, Staithes offers a coastal escape that feels delightfully detached from the modern world. The pictures below were taken with a Canon r100 on the 7th September 2025.

A wide-angle view from the top of a steep, winding road leading down into the coastal village of Staithes. A bright yellow cottage stands prominently on the right, while other white and stone houses nestle into the hillside. A stone-paved pedestrian path with a wooden handrail runs alongside the asphalt road.

A grand stone building with arched windows and a classical pediment, functioning as the Staithes Museum. Several international flags, including the Union Jack, Canada, and Scotland, fly from the front. Colorful bunting is strung across the narrow, descending street in front of the building.

A monochromatic photo looking down a narrow street lined with traditional terraced houses. Several cars are parked on the left side of the road. Strings of triangular bunting crisscross the air between the buildings, leading the eye toward the distant hillside.

A view of a narrow, cobbled street lined with colorful buildings in shades of blue, cream, and brick. On the right, a white building features a sign for "Blue Jacket House" next to a dark blue door. Blue and white bunting hangs overhead, and a "The Old Butcher's" shopfront is visible further down the road.

A black and white photograph of a narrow, paved village street. The architecture features traditional stone and rendered houses with small door-hoods and benches outside. Bunting hangs from the upper stories, and a few distant figures can be seen walking toward the centre of the village.

A wide-angle view of the historic fishing village of Staithes. The image shows a sandy beach at low tide leading into a calm harbor with several small blue and red boats. In the background, traditional white and stone cottages with red-tiled roofs are nestled against steep, grassy hills and a towering, layered shale cliff known as Cowbar Nab under an overcast sky.

A wide-angle view of the historic fishing village of Staithes. The image shows a sandy beach at low tide leading into a calm harbor with several small blue and red boats. In the background, traditional white and stone cottages with red-tiled roofs are nestled against steep, grassy hills and a towering, layered shale cliff known as Cowbar Nab under an overcast sky.

A sepia-toned landscape of Staithes beach and harbor, giving the scene an antique, timeless feel. The Cod and Lobster pub is visible on the left, overlooking the beach where children are playing. The large cliff of Cowbar Nab dominates the right side of the frame against a soft, hazy sky.

A black and white photograph of Staithes harbor. The monochrome palette emphasizes the textures of the rippling water in the foreground, the rocky face of the surrounding cliffs, and the uniform rows of coastal cottages along the sea wall. People are seen as small figures walking along the sandy shoreline.

A wide-angle view of the historic fishing village of Staithes. The image shows a sandy beach at low tide leading into a calm harbor with several small blue and red boats. In the background, traditional white and stone cottages with red-tiled roofs are nestled against steep, grassy hills and a towering, layered shale cliff known as Cowbar Nab under an overcast sky.

A wide shot of the harbor at Staithes, North Yorkshire. Numerous colorful small fishing boats and pleasure crafts are moored in the calm, gray-blue water. In the background, a long stone breakwater separates the harbor from the open sea. In the foreground, a sandy beach with dark seaweed transitions into a concrete pier where a single person sits looking out at the water.

A view looking down a narrow, winding cobbled street lined with traditional coastal buildings. On the right, a light blue textured building houses "The Old Butcher's," which features a prominent red storefront and a sign for "Reyt Good Fudge." Bunting hangs across the street between buildings, and a few people are seen walking in the distance.

A high-angle shot of several small, traditional rowing boats—one bright blue and white, another red and white—moored together in the center of the beck. The steep, grassy, and rocky banks of the inlet rise on either side, with historic stone buildings overlooking the water. The tide appears to be low, revealing the muddy banks on the left.

A scenic view of Staithes Beck flowing toward the sea. On the left bank, a row of traditional stone and brightly painted cottages (including one in vibrant orange) sits at the base of a massive, layered brown cliff. On the right, more stone houses are built into the hillside. The water is calm, reflecting the cloudy sky above.

A Step Back in Time: The Heritage of Staithes

The name Staithes derives from Old English, meaning 'landing place,' and the village has certainly lived up to its name for centuries. Walking down the steep bank from the car park into the old village, you are immediately transported to the 18th century.

It was here, in 1745, that a young James Cook—before he became the legendary Captain Cook—first felt the pull of the ocean while working as a grocer’s apprentice. Although the original shop where he worked was eventually claimed by the sea, his legacy remains central to the village's identity. You can still visit the Staithes Heritage Centre, which houses a recreation of that very shop alongside a treasure trove of maritime artifacts.

The Artist’s Muse

There is a reason why Staithes is often referred to as an "artist’s pilgrimage." In the late 19th century, a colony of nearly 30 painters, known as the Staithes Group, settled here. Inspired by French Impressionism, they sought to capture the rugged cliffs and the daily toil of the fishing community.

Today, that creative spirit is still very much alive. The village is dotted with independent galleries, and if you visit in September, you’ll witness the Staithes Festival of Arts and Heritage, where local cottages are transformed into pop-up galleries, showcasing everything from traditional oil paintings to contemporary digital art.

Top Things to Do in Staithes

1. Explore the "Ginnels" and Dog Loup Alley

The best way to see Staithes is to get lost in its narrow alleyways. Keep an eye out for Dog Loup Alley, which is claimed to be the narrowest street in the world at just 18 inches wide. These winding paths are lined with traditional stone cottages, many of which bear names tied to the village’s seafaring past.

2. Fossil Hunting on the "Dinosaur Coast"

At low tide, the beach at Staithes reveals its prehistoric secrets. Part of the renowned Dinosaur Coast, the foreshore is a haven for fossil hunters. You can often find ammonites and belemnites embedded in the shale or tucked among the rock pools. It’s a perfect activity for families—just be sure to check the tide times, as the North Sea can return with surprising speed.

3. Hike the Cleveland Way to Runswick Bay

For those who crave adventure, the section of the Cleveland Way National Trail that passes through Staithes is arguably its most spectacular. Heading south toward Runswick Bay, the path climbs high onto the cliffs, offering panoramic views of the "two protective arms" of Cowbar Nab and Penny Nab.

4. Catch the View from Cowbar Bank

For the ultimate "postcard" shot of Staithes, cross the small footbridge over the beck and head up Cowbar Lane. This vantage point provides a stunning view over the red-tiled roofs and the bobbing "coble" boats in the harbour.

Where to Eat and Drink: A Taste of the Coast

After a day of exploring, the village’s pubs and tea rooms offer the perfect coastal comfort.

  • The Cod & Lobster: Perched right on the harbour edge, this iconic pub has faced the brunt of many North Sea storms. It’s the go-to spot for fresh seafood, particularly their famous crab sandwiches and fish chowder.

  • Dotty’s Vintage Tearoom: For a more refined afternoon, head to Dotty’s on the High Street. Their homemade scones are legendary, served on vintage china in a setting that feels like a cozy Victorian parlour.

  • The Captain Cook Inn: Located at the top of the village, this is a favourite for hikers. It offers a great selection of real ales and a hearty Sunday roast that will fuel you for the walk back down the bank.

Essential Tips for Your Visit

  • Parking: Access to the old village is restricted to residents and deliveries. You must park at the Bank Top car park (TS13 5AD). It is a steep walk down, so comfortable footwear is essential.

  • Tide Awareness: If you are planning to walk along the beach toward Port Mulgrave or Penny Nab, always consult a tide table. The cliffs are steep and the tide comes right to the base.

  • Connectivity: Be prepared for a digital detox—the deep ravine means mobile signal can be patchy, which only adds to the village's "time-forgotten" charm.

Staithes is a place where time slows down to the rhythm of the tides. Whether you're here for the history, the art, or simply a breath of salty North Yorkshire air, it is a village that stays with you long after you’ve climbed back up the hill.

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.

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Location: Staithes, UK

Wednesday, 17 December 2025

A Summer Stroll Through Crow Wood Park, Sowerby Bridge

Stepping into Crow Wood Park in Sowerby Bridge, especially on a lovely day like the one captured in these June 2023 photos, feels like discovering a peaceful, green oasis. The mix of open, rolling lawns, mature woodlands, and charming historic features offers a welcome escape.


The Rich History Beneath the Grass

What many visitors may not realise is the fascinating history woven into the very fabric of this beautiful public space. Crow Wood Park wasn't always a park—it was once the grand grounds of Crow Wood Mansion.

  • A Wartime Legacy: The mansion itself played a significant role during World War I, serving as a hospital until its closure in 1920.

  • A Public Vision: The forward-thinking Sowerby Bridge Council purchased the estate in 1919 with the vision of creating a public space, a true community hub. The mansion was subsequently demolished, and the park officially opened its gates in April 1923.

  • A Place of Remembrance: A profound feature is the Memorial Gate, unveiled on November 10, 1929. This powerful monument was dedicated to those from the Sowerby Bridge area who perished in the Great War, and now honours the fallen of both World Wars.

  • Centenary Status: In 2014, the park was fittingly renamed Crow Wood Centenary Park to mark the 100th anniversary of the start of WWI, reinforcing its historical significance and protecting it forever as a Centenary Field.

A Park for Every Season (and every Nikon d3300!)

Our collection of photos, taken on a bright summer day, perfectly highlights the park's diverse appeal:

  • Winding Paths & Open Views: The asphalt paths invite you for a gentle run or a leisurely stroll, leading you through sun-drenched clearings and offering lovely views over the local valley and the houses nestled below.



  • Woodland Serenity: Parts of the park feel wonderfully enclosed, with dappled light filtering through the mature trees, creating cool, lush green tunnels and secluded walkways.

  • Historic Charm: Keep an eye out for the remnants of its past! Ornate features like the stone pedestal or what appears to be part of an old fountain or wellhead add a touch of historic grandeur to the formal garden areas.

  • Modern Amenities: While the original bandstand has been repurposed, the park remains a vital community space with facilities like tennis courts, now benefiting from recent refurbishment investment!), and open fields perfect for a picnic or simply letting the kids run free.

Whether you're looking for a peaceful walk, a place to reflect on local history, or a green space to stay active, Crow Wood Park truly is a jewel in Sowerby Bridge's crown. It's a living, breathing testament to community spirit and enduring local heritage.

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Location: Crow Wood Park, Rochdale Rd, Sowerby Bridge, Halifax HX2 7NR, UK
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