Autumn Day at Hewenden Viaduct

 On the 10th of October 2015, the air over West Yorkshire held that unmistakable autumn dampness— that softens the edges of the rugged landscape. On this particular day, equipped with a Polaroid iS2132, I set out to capture the intersection of Victorian industrial ambition and the enduring natural beauty of the area around Hewenden Viaduct and Reservoir.

The resulting images serve as a time capsule, not just of a date a decade ago, but of a monumental structure that has stood for nearly 150 years.

The Colossus of Cullingworth

Standing at the edge of the valley, the first thing that strikes you about Hewenden Viaduct is its sheer scale. It is a towering achievement of the Great Northern Railway, once part of the "Queensbury Lines" that connected Keighley, Bradford, and Halifax.

In the dull light of that October morning, the viaduct’s 17 arches stretched across the valley like the skeleton of a prehistoric giant. Using the Polaroid iS2132’s zoom allowed for a perspective that emphasizes the dramatic curve of the structure as it disappears into the treeline. The stone, weathered by over a century of Yorkshire rain, took on deep, moody tones in the overcast light, highlighting the precision of the Victorian stonemasons.

A Walk Through Industrial History

The beauty of Hewenden isn't just in the viaduct itself, but in how the surrounding landscape has reclaimed the industrial footprint. Following the path toward the structure, you encounter the quiet relics of a busier era:

• The Disused Railway Bridge: Near the main viaduct, a smaller stone arch bridge sits tucked away in the dense woodland. In October, the ground is a carpet of fallen leaves, and the bridge feels like a gateway into a forgotten world.

• The Old Metal Gate: An ornate, rusted metal gate set into a dry stone wall marks an old boundary, leading your eye down a leaf-strewn track that once likely served the railway or the nearby reservoir works.

• The Viaduct Deck: Standing atop the viaduct, the view is dizzying. The long, straight stretch of the former trackbed is now part of the Great Northern Railway Trail. In black and white, the perspective of the stone parapets underscores the isolation and the height of the crossing.

The Still Waters of Hewenden Reservoir

Adjacent to the towering arches lies Hewenden Reservoir, its surface like a dark mirror under the grey October sky. The relationship between the two structures is a masterclass in Victorian engineering—the massive embankment of the reservoir sitting in the shadow of the even more massive viaduct.

The photography from that day captures the reservoir's spillway and the intricate stone channels designed to manage the flow of water. From the height of the viaduct, the reservoir looks like a silver shard embedded in the vibrant green of the Yorkshire hills. Even late in the season, the fields remained a vivid emerald, contrasted by the first turning leaves of the surrounding oaks and beeches.

Capturing the Atmosphere with the Polaroid iS2132

The Polaroid iS2132, a bridge camera known for its impressive 21x optical zoom, was the perfect companion for this excursion. While it might not have the sensor size of a modern DSLR, its ability to compress the landscape allowed for striking compositions.

Choosing to render some scenes in high-contrast black and white or sepia tones helped to lean into the historical gravity of the site. The monochrome images of the viaduct arches emphasize the geometry and the play of light and shadow, stripping away the distraction of the green fields to focus on the raw stone. Meanwhile, the sepia shots of the wooded paths evoke a sense of nostalgia, as if the photos themselves were discovered in an attic from the era when steam still rattled across these heights.

A Legacy in Stone

Today, Hewenden Viaduct is a Grade II listed structure, protected for future generations. It no longer echoes with the thunder of coal trains or passenger carriages heading for Keighley; instead, it belongs to the walkers, cyclists, and photographers who come to marvel at its grace.

Visiting in October provides a unique mood. The "Season of mists and mellow fruitfulness" suits the viaduct perfectly. It is a place of quiet reflection, where the birdsong from the valley floor reaches you even at the height of the tallest arch, and the water of the reservoir laps gently against the stone.

Whether you are a local history buff or a photographer looking for the perfect leading line, Hewenden remains one of the most photogenic spots in the north of England. These images from 2015 are a reminder that while the seasons change and technology moves on, the grandeur of our industrial heritage remains a constant, immovable part of the horizon.

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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Ending the Year on a High: A New Year’s Eve Trek to Stoodley Pike

Date: December 31, 2016 Location: Todmorden, West Yorkshire Camera: Nikon D3300

There are few better ways to say goodbye to an old year than by climbing above the noise of daily life and standing on top of the world—or at least, on top of the Calder Valley.

On New Year's Eve, 2016, I took my Nikon D3300 up the muddy tracks to one of West Yorkshire’s most iconic landmarks: Stoodley Pike Monument. The air was biting, the light was fading into a winter gloaming, and the moors were silent.

Join me on a walk to the "Sentinel of the Valley."

The Ascent

The climb up to Stoodley Pike is never a casual stroll, especially in the depths of winter. The Pennine Way crosses here, and the path is well-trodden by centuries of boots. As I made my way up, the winter light began to shift, turning the rough moorland grass into a sea of rusted gold.

The approach. The muddy tracks leading the eye straight to the obelisk, standing solitary against the grey winter sky.

There is a stark beauty to the moors in December. The Nikon D3300 did a fantastic job capturing the texture of the dry grasses and the heavy, cloud-laden sky. It felt like the weather was holding its breath, waiting for the year to turn.

A View of Todmorden

As you gain elevation, the town of Todmorden falls away beneath you. One of my favourite shots from the day was looking back down into the valley..

The view from the heights. You can just see the streetlights and house lights flickering on in Todmorden, warm specs of amber against the cooling blue of the hills.

This image captures the isolation of the Pike. Down there, people were likely preparing for New Year's Eve parties, warming their homes. Up here, it was just the wind and the sheep.

The Peace Monument

Standing at 121 feet (37 meters) tall, Stoodley Pike Monument is imposing up close. Interestingly, the structure we see today is actually the second monument on this site. The first, built in 1814 to commemorate the defeat of Napoleon, collapsed in 1854 after a lightning strike and decades of weathering. The current structure was completed in 1856, built to mark the end of the Crimean War.

The monument framed by the rugged gritstone boulders that litter the summit.

Standing tall. The darkening stonework contrasts sharply with the pale winter sky, emphasizing the monument's brooding presence.

It is a structure born of war, yet built for peace, standing guard over the valley for over 160 years.

Into the Darkness

Unlike many follies and monuments that are sealed off, Stoodley Pike invites you in. The entrance is a small, dark opening at the base that leads to a spiral staircase. There are no windows on the way up—it is a pitch-black ascent (a torch or phone light is highly recommended!) that eventually opens up onto a balcony.

The heavy stone base and the entrance. The massive blocks of stone give you a sense of the engineering required to keep this standing against the fierce Pennine winds.

The Balcony View

Stepping out onto the balcony is a visceral experience. The wind usually hits you with renewed force, but the view is worth it. You are standing some 1,300 feet above sea level.

Looking out from the balcony. The weathered stone railing, carved with the initials of visitors from decades past, overlooks the vast expanse of the moorland plateau.

Final Reflections

As the light finally gave way, I captured a silhouette of the monument. It felt like a fitting end to the photo walk—a strong, enduring shape against the fading light of 2016.

The silhouette of the Pike. A simple, powerful geometry against the morning sky.

Visiting Stoodley Pike is a reminder of the permanence of the landscape compared to the fleeting nature of our years. If you find yourself in West Yorkshire, pack your boots and your camera. The hike is steep, but the perspective it offers is unmatched.

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All the images remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Chasing Winter Light: A Sunday Stroll in Sowerby Bridge

 Date: December 1, 2019 Location: Sowerby Bridge, West Yorkshire Gear: Nikon D3300

There is something uniquely crisp about the first day of December. It marks the meteorological start of winter, where the light sits lower in the sky, the shadows stretch longer, and the air bites just enough to make you walk a little faster.

Back in 2019, I took my Nikon D3300 out for a Sunday wander through Sowerby Bridge. This corner of the Calder Valley is a photographer's playground, offering a perfect triad of subjects: the industrial stillness of the Rochdale Canal, the raw power of the River Calder, and the skeletal beauty of Dixon Scar Woods.

Join me on a walk through the frost and the history of West Yorkshire.

The Glassy Stillness of the Cut

The walk began on the towpath of the Rochdale Canal. One of the joys of canal photography in winter is the lack of boat traffic, which turns the water into a near-perfect mirror. The greenery of summer has faded, revealing the structural "bones" of the landscape—the stone walls and the bare branches.

The long view along the Rochdale Canal. The blue sky reflects perfectly in the water, creating a peaceful, leading line through the valley.

Moving closer to the town centre, the relationship between the waterway and the industrial heritage becomes clearer. Sowerby Bridge was built on wool and engineering, and the old mills still tower over the water.

Where industry meets leisure. A boat sits quietly moored beneath the towering stone walls of the converted mills.

Crossing the Canal

Crossing over the Rochdale Canal, I headed toward the River Calder. Unlike the man-made tranquillity of the canal, the river is untamed and energetic. To get there, you often have to traverse the old infrastructure that stitches this town together.

I’ve always had a soft spot for the "Co-Op Bridge." It isn’t pretty in the conventional sense—it’s rusted, covered in graffiti, and utilitarian—but it has character. It frames the transition from the urban streets to the wilder woods perfectly.

The texture of the city. The rusted iron lattice and stone steps of the Co-Op Bridge provide a gritty contrast to the nature that surrounds it.

The Roar of Hollins Mill

Just downstream, the sound of water dominates the air. The weir at Hollins Mill is a reminder of the power that once drove the industry here. Even on a calm day, the water rushes over the stone steps with impressive force.

A wide view of Hollins Mill Weir. You can see how the houses cling to the hillside, overlooking the tumbling water.

I spent some time here playing with the shutter speed on the Nikon D3300 to capture the movement of the water crashing over the historic stonework.

The power of the Calder. The intricate stonework of the weir breaks the water into white foam as it heads downstream.

Into Dixon Scar Woods

Crossing the river leads you into Dixon Scar Woods. This area feels ancient, especially in winter. The leaves had mostly fallen, carpeting the floor in varying shades of brown and gold, allowing the low winter sun to pierce through the canopy in spectacular fashion.

Looking back at the river from the edge of the woods. The mossy trees dip their branches into the cold, blue water.

The highlight of the walk, however, was the light in the clearing. The sun was positioned just behind the tree line on the ridge, creating a stunning "starburst" effect that illuminated the frosty mist clinging to the meadow. It was one of those moments you have to be quick to capture before the clouds shift.

The golden hour strikes at midday. A perfect sunburst through the trees illuminates the frosty grass and a dog enjoying a morning run.

The quiet meadow. The frost lingers in the shadows of the valley floor, creating a cool, textured foreground against the wooded hill.

Final Thoughts

Looking back at these photos from 2019, I'm reminded that you don't need to travel far to find beautiful landscapes. Sowerby Bridge offers a density of photographic opportunities—from gritty industrial textures to ethereal woodland light—all within a mile's walk.

If you ever find yourself in West Yorkshire on a crisp winter day, take a walk down the cut and into the woods. Just don't forget your camera.

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 images remain the copyright of Colin Green.

From Gallery Walls to Everyday Life: Reimagining Scotland’s Iconic Landscapes

 There is a specific kind of magic that happens when light, structure, and atmosphere collide. You’ve felt it—that moment a landscape makes you stop, breathe, and just look.

My latest collection takes those moments and transforms them into something you can touch. By blending high-definition photography with painterly, expressive textures, I’ve created four signature pieces that don’t just sit on a wall—they tell a story. Whether you are looking for a sweeping canvas for your lounge or a textured phone case that turns your tech into a masterpiece, the power to customize is in your hands through Zazzle.

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1. Ardrossan Beach: Your Daily Dose of Calm

The Vibe: Golden hour, low tides, and total stillness.

This isn’t just a coastal print; it’s a physical exhale. With its rich oranges and liquid golds, Ardrossan Beach is designed to soften the edges of a room. The painterly texture gives the image a dreamy, almost meditative quality that instantly invites calm.

• Make it yours on Zazzle: This piece glows on brushed metal prints or adds a touch of zen to a premium journal cover. It is also the perfect serene backdrop for tote bags or personalized postcards.

2. The Forth Bridge: Where Iron Meets Art

The Vibe: Scottish heritage, industrial strength, and cinematic warmth.

The Forth Bridge is an icon of engineering, but in this watercolour-style rendering, it feels like a living, breathing character. The warm illumination reflecting off the water creates a moody, sophisticated aesthetic that is perfect for a modern office or a heritage-inspired home.

• Make it yours on Zazzle: This design is a powerhouse on ceramic mugs or as a bold desk mat to anchor your workspace. Consider it for luggage tags or passport covers for the travel enthusiast in your life.

3. Sunset Through Steel: The Architect’s Dream

The Vibe: Edgy, skeletal, and modern.

If you prefer your art with a bit of "grit," this sketch-style interpretation of the cantilever bridge is for you. It is all about the interplay of rigid steel and the soft, bleeding colours of the sky. It is urban art with a soul, blending structure and softness in a way that feels both modern and timeless.

• Make it yours on Zazzle: I love this one on minimalist tote bags or as a statement wall clock. It is a conversation starter that proves industrial design can be incredibly elegant on coasters or framed art prints.

4. Kessock Bridge: Minimalist Elegance in Magenta

The Vibe: Clean lines, deep perspective, and contemporary cool.

There is something hypnotic about the symmetry of a cable-stayed bridge. This artwork, featuring the Kessock Bridge in soft magenta tones, is for the lovers of clean lines and open spaces. It is deep, airy, and looks exceptionally high-end.

• Make it yours on Zazzle: This translates beautifully onto acrylic blocks for a sleek desk accessory or oversized throw pillows that bring a designer touch to your sofa. It also makes for stunning greeting cards for design enthusiasts.

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Why Shop the Zazzle Collection?

While I offer these images as traditional canvases and posters, my Zazzle store is where you become the co-creator.

• Total Customization: Want to add a name, a date, or a favourite quote to the Forth Bridge? Zazzle’s tools let you tweak the layout, add text, and adjust the crop until it is perfect.

• Hundreds of Options: From tech skins and apparel to home décor and office supplies, your favourite landscape can live on almost any product imaginable.

• Gifts with Meaning: A personalized art piece says a lot more than a generic store-bought gift. Whether for a housewarming or a holiday, these items feel thoughtful and unique.

• Quality You Can Trust: Zazzle ensures the artwork looks vibrant and professional across all product types.

Bring the Outdoors In

Art shouldn’t be precious—it should be part of your life. It is the mug you hold on a cold morning and the notebook where you scribble your best ideas. These four pieces represent serenity, heritage, and modern beauty. How they fit into your world is entirely up to you.

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 images remain the copyright of Colin Green.