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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Discovering the Beauty of Bradford Cathedral (Exterior Exploration)

On a crisp December day (December 10th, 2022, to be precise!), I took my Nikon D3300 out to explore a true architectural gem in the heart of Bradford: Bradford Cathedral. While I focused my lens solely on the exterior – understanding that interior photography often requires special permission – the building itself offered an abundance of captivating details and a sense of timeless grandeur.

My journey began with the approach to the cathedral, and what an interesting entrance it is! The area around it feels steeped in history, with some beautifully intricate stonework.

Walking closer, I was drawn to the unique arched passageway leading up towards the main structure. It almost felt like stepping back in time, with the impressive stone staircase hinting at stories from centuries past. The ornate lantern hanging overhead added a touch of old-world charm.

Just beyond this entrance, nestled within an archway, I was pleasantly surprised to discover a beautifully arranged nativity scene. It was a lovely, festive touch, and the colourful figures against the ancient stone made for a striking contrast, especially with the subtle dappled lighting.

Continuing my ascent, another set of steps, complete with a distinctive blue handrail, guided me further up the grounds. The architecture here is a fantastic blend of robust stone and delicate decorative elements.

As I reached the higher ground, I was able to appreciate the full scale of the cathedral's impressive structure. Surrounded by a mix of evergreen and bare winter trees, the sheer size and intricate details of the building truly stand out. It’s remarkable how well it blends into the urban landscape while simultaneously commanding attention.

One of the most striking features, of course, is the towering clock tower. The beautiful blue clock face with its golden hands against the grey sky was particularly captivating. You can really get a sense of the craftsmanship that went into its construction, with every arch and buttress telling a story.

Taking a moment to wander around the perimeter, I noticed the peaceful pathways and scattered autumn leaves that still clung to the ground. Even in winter, there's a quiet beauty to the cathedral grounds.

Another charming entrance caught my eye, with its inviting open door and the warmth of the stonework. The lush bushes and smaller trees around it add a touch of softness to the grand architecture.

Finally, a wider shot encompassing the full glory of the cathedral from a slightly different angle. The intricate rooflines, the impressive tower, and the surrounding greenery all come together to create a truly magnificent sight. It makes you wonder about all the history and lives that have passed through its doors.

Even without venturing inside, Bradford Cathedral offers a profound sense of history and architectural splendor. It's a testament to enduring craftsmanship and a peaceful haven in the bustling city. If you find yourself in Bradford, I highly recommend taking some time to walk around its impressive exterior – you won't be disappointed!

A Glimpse into the Past

While the building is a stunning sight today, the site itself has been a place of Christian worship for nearly 1,400 years, dating back to Saxon times. The core of the present church, originally known as St. Peter's Parish Church, was largely rebuilt in the 15th century after an earlier stone church was burned down by Scottish raiders around 1327. The beautiful Perpendicular Gothic tower you can see today was added later, finished in 1508. The church was elevated to cathedral status in 1919 when the Diocese of Bradford was created, and subsequent extensions by architect Sir Edward Maufe in the mid-22th century gave the building its current, comprehensive form.

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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.

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All the images remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Stepping Back in Time: A Sepia Afternoon at Hebden Bridge Station

 Date: November 21, 2013 Camera: Samsung Galaxy Tablet

There are some places that seem to resist the pull of the modern world, where the clock ticks a little slower, and the air feels heavy with history. Hebden Bridge Railway Station is one of those places.

On a crisp afternoon in November 2013, I found myself on the platform with my Samsung Galaxy tablet. Looking through the lens, the scene didn't feel like the 21st century at all. In fact, when I switched to sepia, the station transformed completely, revealing its true Victorian soul.

Join me for a walk through this historic gem of the West Riding.

The Arrival

The first thing you notice about Hebden Bridge is that it doesn't look like a modern commuter stop. It feels like a film set. As the train pulls away, you aren't left with concrete and plastic, but with iron, stone, and silence.

A train departs, leaving behind the quiet charm of the platform. Note the "Coffee Station" sign on the left—a beloved local fixture occupying the former parcels office.

The station you see today is actually the second iteration. The original Manchester & Leeds Railway station opened here in 1840, but the current buildings date back to 1891-1893, built by the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway (L&YR). The sepia tone of these photos captures that 1890s atmosphere perfectly; if you removed the modern train, this could easily be 1913.

Victorian Grandeur

Walking along the platform, the architecture demands your attention. In the 1990s, the station underwent a massive restoration to return it to its L&YR glory, including the installation of heritage-style signage and the preservation of the ironwork.

Looking down the platform. The sheer scale of the canopy reminds us of a time when railway travel was an occasion, not just a commute.

The intricate ironwork of the canopy. The "Way Out" signage and the gas-lamp style lights (now electric, of course) maintain the illusion of the Victorian era.

The main station building is constructed of rock-faced stone with ashlar dressings—a testament to the solid, confident engineering of the industrial north. It was built to serve the booming textile mills of the valley, and its grandeur reflects the wealth that once flowed through these hills.

The Booking Office exterior. The building originally housed first-class waiting rooms and "ladies' rooms," separating passengers by social standing—a practice long gone, thankfully.

Into the Depths

One of the most atmospheric parts of the station is the subway. Originally, passengers had to cross the tracks on foot, which was perilous. During the 1890s expansion, this subway was dug to connect the platforms safely.

The subway tunnel. The monochrome processing brings out the texture of the glazed bricks and the damp, moody lighting. It feels like a portal to another time.

The Sentinel of the Line: The Signal Box

Perhaps the crown jewel of the station's heritage is the signal box. While many mechanical signal boxes across the UK have been demolished in favour of modern digital signalling centres, the Hebden Bridge box has survived.

A view from the platform looking towards the signal box, nestled against the tree-lined valley side.

Built in 1891, this is a Type 4 L&YR box. It is now Grade II listed, recognized as a structure of national historic importance. It represents a lost era of manual labour, where signalmen pulled heavy levers to guide steam giants safely through the valley.

A closer look at the Signal Box. You can clearly see the timber upper structure sitting on the brick base. It’s rare to see one in such original condition.

A Timeless Stop

Leaving the station that day in 2013, I felt like I was stepping out of a time capsule. Whether you are a railway enthusiast, a history buff, or just someone who appreciates a good cup of coffee in a beautiful setting, Hebden Bridge station is a destination in itself.

These photos on my tablet may be digital, but the spirit they captured is undeniably analogue.

Clicking any of the images 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 images remain the copyright of Colin Green.