A Journey into the Heart of Whitby: Where the Harbour Meets History

There are some places that feel like a story waiting to be told, and Whitby is one of them. Nestled on the rugged North Yorkshire coast, this ancient fishing port is a captivating mix of salty sea air, winding cobbled streets, and a history as rich and deep as the North Sea itself. While many are drawn to its Gothic clifftops, a true understanding of Whitby begins at the water's edge, in the bustling town and the timeless harbour that defines it.

The Pulse of the Port: A Living History

Whitby’s lifeblood has always been its harbour. Divided by the iconic swing bridge, which gracefully pivots to let vessels pass, the harbour is a constant hub of activity. Here, the everyday rhythm of a working port is on full display. Fishing trawlers chug in and out, their holds filled with the day's catch, while pleasure boats like the replica of Captain Cook's Endeavour offer a glimpse of the town from the water.

The harbour is also a place of simple, timeless pleasures. You’ll find families huddled on the quayside, lines in hand, engrossed in the great British seaside tradition of crabbing. It’s here that the seagulls, ever-present and vocal, create the classic soundtrack to a day out. As the tide goes out, the mud and sand of the River Esk are exposed, a reminder that this is a place shaped by the very forces of nature.

Whitby's maritime heritage is monumental. It was once a powerhouse of shipbuilding, where legendary vessels—including those for Captain James Cook's epic voyages—were constructed. The town also had a significant role in the whaling industry, a past remembered today by the striking Whalebone Arch on the West Cliff, a powerful tribute to this bygone era.

Wandering the Labyrinth: East and West

From the harbour, the town rises on both sides of the River Esk, each with its own distinct character. On the east, a warren of narrow, cobbled alleys and hidden courtyards invites you to get lost. It's a place where history is etched into every stone, with ancient streets and a market place dating back to the 17th century. Here, independent shops overflow with treasures, including the famous Whitby Jet, a black gemstone polished to a deep shine. Its history, from its formation millions of years ago to its rise to popularity in Victorian England, is as fascinating as the town itself.

Crossing the swing bridge to the west side, the streets open up into a more modern but equally charming area. This is the place for a classic British seaside experience. The air is thick with the irresistible aroma of freshly cooked fish and chips, a local delicacy for which Whitby is renowned. A visit isn't complete without a trip to one of the famous chippies, where you can enjoy your meal straight from the paper while watching the boats bob in the harbour.

Whether you're exploring the historic landmarks, browsing the shops for a unique souvenir, or simply soaking in the atmosphere with a delicious portion of food, Whitby’s town and harbour offer an experience that is both authentic and unforgettable. It's a place that tells a story of discovery, industry, and enduring coastal charm, a perfect starting point for any North Yorkshire adventure.

The pictures below were taken in August 2018 with a Nikon d3300, clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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Back to the '60s: Discovering the Charm of the Welsh Coracle

I recently rediscovered a fantastic piece of history—a 35mm slide from my collection, likely dating back to the 1960s. After digitizing it, I just had to share this glimpse into a timeless piece of Welsh heritage: the Coracle boat.

This photograph captures a beautifully rustic coracle resting on a shingle bank beside a river, its single, broad-bladed paddle lying across the wooden seat. It's a snapshot that transports you straight to the quiet waterways of Wales over half a century ago.

The Tiny Boat with a Huge History

If you're not familiar with it, a coracle (cwrwgl in Welsh) is a small, light, round or oval-shaped boat, designed for one person. It’s essentially a frame, historically made of woven willow or ash laths, covered with a waterproof material—in ancient times, animal hide, but by the mid-20th century, typically canvas or calico coated with tar or bitumen paint.

What makes them so fascinating is their incredible history. Coracles date back to pre-Roman times! They are one of the oldest forms of water transport in the world, with Julius Caesar even noting their use by the ancient Britons.

A River-Wise Design

The coracle's design is perfectly suited to its environment:

• Keel-less and Flat-Bottomed: This allows the boat to float in just a few inches of water, making it ideal for navigating shallow streams and fast-flowing rivers like the Teifi and Tywi in West Wales.

• Lightweight: Crucially, a coracle is light enough to be carried on the fisherman's back, often using a strap attached to the seat. This meant they could easily be transported between different stretches of water or carried home along with the day’s catch. This portability is key to the craft's endurance.

• Unique Propulsion: They are propelled by a single paddle, used in a figure-of-eight 'sculling' motion. This allows the fisherman to steer and move while keeping the other hand free for fishing—often for salmon or sea trout using a long, fine net, a traditional method still practised under license in parts of Wales today.

A Glimpse into the 1960s

The boat in the slide looks like a traditional working craft—its dark, tarred covering and simple wooden seat speak to utility and tradition. While the 1960s were a time of rapid change, this image reminds us that some ancient crafts were still very much a part of everyday life along Wales's rivers.

It's a wonderful memory to unearth from an old box of slides. Clicking the image should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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The picture remains the copyright of Colin Green.

Behind the Stands: A Glimpse of Huddersfield's Accu Stadium on a Quiet Day

On a bright late-May day in 2023, with a Nikon D3300 in hand, I took a stroll around the perimeter of what is currently known as the Accu Stadium in Huddersfield. The gates were closed, meaning no peek inside at the hallowed turf, but even from the outside, the stadium's distinctive architecture and the quiet hum of its surroundings offered plenty to appreciate and reflect upon.

Currently known as the Accu Stadium, and previously known as the John Smith's Stadium, Kirklees Stadium, the Galpharm Stadium and the Alfred McAlpine Stadium, this multi-purpose venue is a true landmark for Huddersfield. It's the proud home of two significant sporting institutions: Huddersfield Town AFC, affectionately known as "The Terriers," and the Huddersfield Giants Rugby League Football Club.

The stadium's design is striking, particularly its curved roofs and distinctive white trusswork that arch over the stands. This architectural flair isn't just for show; it's a testament to modern stadium design when it opened. The images capture these arches beautifully against the clear blue sky, hinting at the vastness within, even when empty. Opened in 1994, it was initially a ground-breaking venture, moving both clubs from their historic but aging homes – Leeds Road for Huddersfield Town and Fartown for the Huddersfield Giants. This move was a significant step forward, providing state-of-the-art facilities for both clubs and their fans.

One of the most interesting facts about the stadium is its innovative funding model. It was developed through a unique partnership between Kirklees Metropolitan Council, Huddersfield Town AFC, and Huddersfield Giants. This collaborative effort ensured that the town retained significant ownership and control, a model that has since been emulated by other clubs. The stadium company, Kirklees Stadium Development Ltd (KSDL), manages the venue, overseeing everything from match days to conferences and concerts.

Even on a quiet Saturday, with no match-day crowds or roaring fans, the stadium exudes a certain presence. The surrounding pathways and car parks, usually teeming with activity, were empty, allowing for a different perspective on the venue. You can imagine the roar of the crowd emanating from within the stands, where a glimpse of the blue seating is visible through the gates. The towering floodlights, stand sentinel, ready to illuminate evening games and create that special atmosphere under the lights.

The external signage, such as "THE CORE STAND" and "THE TERRIERS,", proudly displays the stadium's identity and its connection to its sporting tenants. It's a reminder that this isn't just a building; it's a home, a place of shared memories, triumphs, and sometimes, heartbreaks for thousands of supporters.

Driving around the stadium, as captured in the various images, you get a sense of its integration into the local landscape. Nestled amongst trees and green spaces, it's a substantial structure that nonetheless blends with its surroundings. The approach roads and parking areas, while functional, are softened by the greenery, where the stadium peeks out from behind lush foliage.

While I couldn't step onto the pitch or sit in the stands this time, these external shots offer a valuable insight into the Accu Stadium (or Kirklees Stadium, as it is widely known). They showcase its architectural significance, its role as a dual-sporting arena, and the quiet dignity it holds even on a non-match day. It's a place that buzzes with life and passion, and even from the outside, you can feel the echoes of countless sporting moments.

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Heptonstall and the Old Grammar School

On a grey, autumnal day in November 2013, a Samsung Galaxy tablet captured a series of images that perfectly encapsulate the enduring charm and rich history of Heptonstall, a village perched on the hills above Hebden Bridge in West Yorkshire. The subject of these photos, the Heptonstall Museum, is more than just a building; it's a Grade II-listed testament to centuries of change, a cornerstone of a community steeped in history.

The building that now houses the museum has had a fascinating journey through time. Its origins trace back to around 1600, when it was constructed not as a place of learning, but as a warehouse. This was a time when the woollen trade was the lifeblood of the Pennines, and Heptonstall was a bustling centre for handloom weaving. You can still see hints of this industrial past in the large first-floor windows of many local cottages, designed to maximise the light for the weavers working within.

In 1771, the building was given a new purpose when it was converted into the Heptonstall Grammar School. The photos from 2013 show the solid stone structure and classic architecture, elements that have witnessed generations of students passing through its doors. The school served the community until its closure in 1889. While the modern world moved on, the building's story didn't end there. For a time, it housed the Yorkshire Penny Bank, before finally reopening its doors in August 1972 as the Heptonstall Museum.

The museum today is a treasure trove of local history, offering a window into the past. It tells the story of the village's prehistoric beginnings and its role in significant events, including the Battle of Heptonstall during the English Civil War in 1643. One of the most captivating exhibits delves into the notorious Cragg Vale Coiners, a gang of counterfeiters who plagued the area in the 18th century. Their leader, "King" David Hartley, is buried in the nearby churchyard—one of the many historical figures whose stories are woven into the fabric of Heptonstall.

Speaking of the churchyard, it is perhaps one of the most unique in the country. It is home to not one, but two churches. The ruins of the Church of St Thomas a Becket, founded in the 13th century and severely damaged in a storm in 1847, stand as a hauntingly beautiful shell. Just yards away, the newer St Thomas the Apostle church, built in the 1850s, stands proudly, a symbol of resilience. This dual churchyard is also the final resting place of American poet Sylvia Plath, a poignant connection to the wider literary world.

The Heptonstall Museum, housed in its old grammar school building, serves as a perfect starting point for exploring this remarkable village. It's a place where the past isn't just displayed, it's alive in the very stones of the building and the stories they tell.

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A Summer's Day in 1986: Abingdon-on-Thames and Its Iconic Bridge

There’s a certain magic to slides that are not only beautiful but also come with a precise date! This 35mm slide from my collection, captured in July 1986, instantly transports you back to a glorious summer's day at Abingdon-on-Thames. What a classic English scene it presents!

The photograph perfectly frames the tranquil River Thames, dotted with an array of pleasure boats, all set against the backdrop of Abingdon's historic architecture and its famous bridge, though only a glimpse of the bridge itself is truly prominent in this angle.

The Heart of Abingdon: The River and its Spire

The most striking feature, beyond the bustling river life, is the magnificent spire of St Helen's Church piercing the blue summer sky. This distinctive spire is an unmistakable landmark of Abingdon, confirming our location instantly. The red-tiled roofs of the buildings nestled among the trees complete the picturesque English townscape.

Life on the Thames in the Mid-80s

The river itself is a hive of gentle activity:

• Pleasure Boats: A variety of motor cruisers and cabin boats are moored along the banks or gliding on the water. These vessels, with their classic 1980s designs, really help to solidify the image's date. They evoke a sense of leisurely summer holidays and weekend escapes.

• Abingdon Bridge: While not the central focus of this specific shot, the Abingdon Bridge is just out of frame to the left, and the scene is set directly alongside the famous crossing. The perspective here shows the lively river banks downstream or upstream of the bridge. The older buildings would be part of the historic riverside.

• Riverside Life: On the left, people are enjoying the sunshine on the grassy bank. Some are seated on a bench, others strolling, taking in the peaceful atmosphere. The relaxed clothing and hairstyles are also subtle nods to the mid-80s fashion.

• Boat Hire/Information: The small building on the right, nestled among the boats, looks like a boat hire facility or a river information point, a common sight on popular stretches of the Thames.

The Charm of a July Day

The light in the photograph is typical of a bright English summer day – a mix of sunshine and soft clouds, creating a lovely, diffused quality. The lush green of the grass and trees speaks to the height of summer, making you almost feel the warmth and hear the gentle lapping of water against the boats.

This slide isn't just a photograph; it's a sensory memory of a specific moment in time. It reminds us of leisurely days spent by the river, the simple joy of a sunny afternoon, and the enduring beauty of historic English towns.

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The Secret Stairways of Halifax: A Journey Up the Snickets

In the heart of West Yorkshire lies a town where history is etched into every stone wall and winding street. Halifax is a place of grand Victorian architecture and industrial heritage, but its true character is often found in the hidden corners and forgotten paths. For those with a curious spirit, these places are an invitation to step back in time. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the town's numerous snickets, narrow alleyways or passages that often take the form of steep, cobbled stairways.

Inspired by a recent trip to Old Lane near Boothtown, I captured two such snickets, each a unique testament to the town's past.

Snicket 1: The Gentle Ascent

The first snicket appears almost as an open invitation. Its worn stone steps are wide, leading up a gradual slope between two sturdy stone walls. On the left, a weathered wooden fence hints at a private garden, while a bare tree stands as a silent sentinel. The path is littered with autumn leaves, and the wet cobbles gleam under the grey sky.

This snicket feels like a well-trodden path, a practical shortcut used by generations of locals. It's a connection between two worlds: the quiet residential street below and whatever lies at the top. The image evokes a sense of tranquillity, a brief moment of quiet contemplation before returning to the rhythm of daily life.

Snicket 2: The Vertical Climb

Just a short distance away, the second snicket presents a stark contrast. This is not a path for the faint of heart. Narrow and steep, it rises like a vertical ribbon of stone. A metal handrail runs alongside the towering stone wall, a necessary aid for those brave enough to make the climb. The walls themselves are a patchwork of different-sized stones, telling a story of repairs and rebuilds over the decades. The vegetation on the left, overgrown and wild, adds to the feeling of a passage carved directly from the landscape itself.

This snicket is a challenge, a true "Boothtown" climb that speaks to the rugged terrain of the area. It feels more secluded and intimate than the first, a hidden passage known only to those who need to use it. It is a reminder that in Halifax, some of the most beautiful and interesting places require a bit of effort to discover.

Why We Love the Snickets

These images, captured in stark black and white, highlight the texture and form of these pathways, stripping away the distractions of colour to reveal their raw, historical beauty. They show us that a snicket is more than just a shortcut; it's a living part of the community's history. These aren't manicured tourist attractions; they are the veins and arteries of the town, connecting homes, streets, and people. They are a physical representation of the town's resilience and its enduring spirit.

Next time you find yourself in Halifax, I encourage you to look beyond the main roads. Seek out a snicket. Take a moment to feel the history under your feet and imagine the countless journeys that have been made on those very same stones. You might just discover a new appreciation for the secret stairways that define this incredible town.

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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green. These were taken with a Nikon d3300 on the 23rd December 2023.

From Sepia to Style: Uncovering the 1970s Office Vibe

There's something incredibly evocative about scanning through old 35mm slides, especially when they feature people. This particular slide from my collection immediately caught my eye, capturing a moment that feels both familiar and distinctly from another era. What makes it even more interesting is that this image, originally a black and white photograph, has been colourised, bringing a whole new dimension of vibrancy and detail to the scene.

Let's dive into this fascinating snapshot and try to pinpoint when it might have been taken.

Dating the Image: A Mid-70s Mystery

Several elements in the photograph scream "1970s," helping us to narrow down the potential date:

• Fashion:

  • The Top: Her ribbed, long-sleeved top with cut-out or slashed details on the arms is very characteristic of mid-to-late 1970s fashion, specifically the disco era or more casual stylish wear.

  • The Skirt: While partially obscured, the patterned, slightly flared or A-line mini-skirt silhouette was popular in the 70s.

  • The Boots: Those boots! High, often chunky heels and a sleek, mid-calf or knee-high rise were incredibly fashionable throughout the 1970s. The light colour (thanks to the colourisation!) also aligns with trends of the time.

  • Hair: Her long, straight, parted hair is a classic 1970s style, often referred to as 'Farrah Fawcett' hair, though hers is a straighter, earlier version of that trend.

• Office Equipment:

  • The Typewriter: The electric typewriter, with its beige casing and sleek (for its time) design, looks like a model from the mid-to-late 1970s. Manual typewriters were still around, but electric models were becoming more common in modern offices.

  • The Telephone: The push-button telephone (rather than a rotary dial) with its distinctive shape also points to the 1970s or very early 80s.

  • The Desk and Chair: The metal-framed office chair with its relatively simple upholstery and the sturdy wooden desk are typical of office furniture from this period.

Putting it together, I'd estimate this image was originally taken around 1974-1978, with a strong lean towards the mid-1970s.

The Magic of Colourisation

What's truly remarkable about this slide is the transformation from its original black and white state. Colourisation, whether done by hand historically or through modern digital techniques, breathes new life into an image. It allows us to:

• See the Fashion: The creamy white of her top, the pattern of her skirt, and especially the light beige of her boots pop, giving us a much clearer sense of the style of the era.

• Appreciate the Office Environment: The muted browns of the desk, the darker tones of the office equipment, and the subtle variations in her blonde hair become apparent, adding depth and realism.

• Feel the Atmosphere: Colour adds a layer of warmth and immediacy that sepia or monochrome often can't convey, making the scene feel more present and less like a distant past. It’s almost as if you can walk right into that office.

The woman herself, with her focused yet gentle expression as she types, seems to embody the changing role of women in the workplace during the 1970s. She's stylish, professional, and engaged in her task.

This slide is more than just a picture; it's a window into a specific cultural and aesthetic moment, made all the more vivid by the wonderful addition of colour. It makes you wonder about her story, the office gossip, and what she was typing!

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My original 35mm slide, the one below is a version I colourised.

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The Rochdale Canal from Mytholmroyd to Moderna

There's a special kind of magic to be found along the old towpaths of England's canals. On a quiet July day, a walk along a short stretch of the Rochdale Canal in West Yorkshire offers a journey back in time, connecting the bustling village of Mytholmroyd to the tranquil stretch toward Moderna.

Starting near Bridge 10 in Mytholmroyd, you immediately feel the canal's rich history. The stone arches, weathered by centuries of rain and traffic, frame the waterway perfectly. Here, you're surrounded by a mix of old stone buildings and lush greenery, a testament to how nature and industry have coexisted for generations. The cool, damp air under the bridge is a sensory experience, a brief and refreshing escape from the open sky.

As you emerge from the tunnel of the bridge, the path opens up. The gentle ripples on the water reflect the cloudy sky and the towering green hills that hug the valley. The path itself is a mix of packed earth and gravel, worn smooth by the countless feet of boatmen, walkers, and cyclists over the years. You'll pass industrial buildings that stand as silent reminders of the canal's working past, their reflections shimmering on the water’s surface. Yet, the scene feels far from industrial. The constant, soft sound of the water, the rustling of leaves, and the occasional bird call create a soothing soundtrack for your walk.

The route from Mytholmroyd is a testament to the canal's blend of rural and urban landscapes. One moment you're passing modern buildings, and the next you're enveloped in a tunnel of trees, where the light dapples through the leaves onto the path. This is especially true as you approach Moderna Bridge 9. The path narrows, and the greenery becomes more dense, almost reclaiming the land. This part of the canal is particularly peaceful, with the water often still enough to provide a perfect mirror image of the trees and sky. It's a place to pause, to breathe in the quiet, and to appreciate the simplicity of a world moving at a slower pace.

Whether you're looking for a peaceful stroll, a bit of local history, or just a beautiful backdrop for a morning walk, the section of the Rochdale Canal between Mytholmroyd and Moderna is a perfect choice. It’s more than just a path; it’s a living piece of history that invites you to be a part of its story.

I took these pictures with a Nikon d3300 on the 21st July 2018, clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.