The Radical Steps of Kirkby Lonsdale

For those who appreciate a walk with a rich past, the Radical Steps at Kirkby Lonsdale are an absolute must. More than just a simple pathway, these steps are a living testament to a local squabble and a man with a "radical" point of view.

Our journey begins at the top, a spot already famous for its breath taking scenery. Here, near the ancient St Mary's Churchyard, lies Ruskin's View, a panorama so stunning it captivated the Victorian art critic John Ruskin himself. But a few steps away from this well-trodden viewpoint, a different kind of history awaits.

The steps themselves are a story in stone. Built over 200 years ago in 1820, they were commissioned by Dr. Francis Pearson. His goal was simple: to reroute a public footpath that ran through his land. In an era when property rights were fiercely debated, his decision to divert a public right of way met with considerable local opposition. But Dr. Pearson was a man of firm convictions, not just about his land, but in his politics too. His 'radical' beliefs, combined with the controversy over the footpath, led the locals to give the steps a memorable and lasting name: The Radical Steps.

Descending the 86 steps is a journey back in time. The steps are a beautiful, if rugged, part of the landscape, worn smooth by countless feet over two centuries. They are steep and uneven in places, a physical challenge that reminds you of their age and the terrain they conquer. As you make your way down, you're flanked by ancient stone walls, cloaked in moss and ivy, and railings that seem to belong to a bygone era. The air is cool and damp, filled with the scent of earth and the sound of the nearby river.

The descent culminates at the banks of the River Lune, a peaceful and scenic reward for your efforts. Here, the river flows serenely, its surface reflecting the sky and the surrounding trees, a perfect contrast to the strenuous path you just took. Looking back up at the steps from the riverbank, you can truly appreciate their steepness and the engineering feat they represent.

While the beauty and history of the Radical Steps are undeniable, it's important to note their accessibility. The steepness and uneven nature of the steps make them unsuitable for those with walking difficulties or disabilities. They are a true hill walk, a physical challenge for the able-bodied and a reminder that some of the best views require a little effort.

These photos, taken on a crisp April day in 2015, perfectly capture the steps' character. They show the verdant surroundings, the rugged beauty of the stone, and the varying perspectives you experience on your journey down to the River Lune. They serve as a wonderful memento of a unique historical landmark, a place where a man's convictions literally shaped the landscape.

So next time you're in Kirkby Lonsdale, take a moment to explore the Radical Steps. You'll not only be treated to a fantastic view, but you'll also be walking in the footsteps of history.

The pictures below were taken on the 4th April 2015 with a Polaroid is2132, clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

The wall that runs the length of the stairs means that quite often the steps can be damp and slippery even on dry days, the wall blocking sunlight and wind from drying the steps.

The River Lune is seen running along the bottom of the picture, the steps leading down to a path the runs alongside the river towards Devil's Bridge.

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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

The Whitacre Mill Viaduct

Nestled in the green landscape of Deighton, near Huddersfield, the Whitacre Mill Viaduct is a silent witness to a bygone era of railway expansion. This impressive, disused railway bridge stands as a testament to the ambitions of the London & North Western Railway and its plan to connect Huddersfield with the Barnsley coal mines via the Kirkburton Branch Line.

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A Bridge with a Story

Construction on the viaduct began in March 1865. Despite a partial collapse in February 1866, the viaduct was completed in time for the line's opening in October 1867. Although the grand plan for the railway was never fully realized, the viaduct served a short section of the line until its final closure in December 1971. Today, it stands as a monument to its industrious past, crossing the Huddersfield Broad Canal, the River Colne, and the valley below.

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A Path Less Traveled

While the viaduct is largely overgrown on one side, it offers a unique walking experience from the Deighton side. Although challenging to navigate, the path provides a sense of adventure and a connection to the area's history. There are plans by Kirklees Council to transform the viaduct into a greenway, much like the nearby Bradley Viaduct, which would open this piece of history to a wider audience. Until then, it remains a secluded and beautiful spot, waiting to be rediscovered.

The pictures below were taken on the 27th May 2023 with a Nikon d3300.

The viaduct crossing the Huddersfield Broad Canal.

The top of the viaduct is supposed to be blocked off, I took this from the access point that has been removed. You can get approx. 2/3 of the way across before the bushes become to thick to pass, walking along the top of the wall would have allowed me to get further but I'm not great with heights, so I thought better of that idea.

Huddersfield Broad Canal pictured from the viaduct, Longlands Lock number 4 is just visible at the top of the picture.

The Huddersfield Broad Canal from Whitacre Mill Viaduct. The picture was taken in the direction of Huddersfield.

The overgrown former track bed looking towards the fence off access. The hole in the fence can be seen to the right of the picture if you follow the wall to the trees.

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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Copley: A Walk Along the River Calder

A stroll along the River Calder at Copley offers a fascinating glimpse into a landscape in transition. These images, captured in March 2015, show a stretch of the river that has undergone significant change. The area, once dominated by industrial and natural spaces, has since been redeveloped with new housing and industrial units, connected by a new bridge and roads.

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Echoes of the Past

The riverbanks at Copley once bustled with activity. The Sterne Mills, a site with a history of milling dating back to the 18th century, stood on the north bank. By the turn of the millennium, the site was unoccupied, but its legacy remains. The weir that once powered the mill and a nearby sluice gate are still visible, a quiet tribute to the area's industrial past.

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A Changing Landscape

The river crossing at Copley has also evolved over time. What was once a simple fording point was later a wooden bridge, then a single-track concrete structure from 1914, before being replaced by the current, modern bridge. This evolution mirrors the larger changes in the area, where new developments now sit alongside historic remnants. This blend of old and new makes the Copley Valley a unique place to explore.

The pictures below were taken on the 8th March 2015 with a Polaroid is2132 camera, clicking on any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

The former sluice gate is all that remains of the mills that once occupied the site.

The weir and modern bridge crossing, the 1914 bridge abutment can just be seen before the metal banking, behind the watermarked col.

The river passing Copley Village, the stone wall to the pictures left is all the remains of Edward Akroyd's Copley Mill which was demolished in 1974, the site is now covered by housing.

This picture was taken from the side of Copley Playing fields looking towards the bridge and wier.

Taken from the south bank, this path used to pass Sowerby Bridge Sewage Works, the site is now occupied by industrial units. I was told once that the river used to be navigable past this point until the canal came and weirs were built to power the mills.

The river again pictured here to the west of Sterne Mills Bridge, the north bank pictured across the river is now covered by housing on what was once considered a flood plain. Just about visible through the trees is the Halifax Bank's Copley Data Centre, opened in the mid 1980's the centre is earmarked for complete closure in 2025.

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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Todmorden Town Hall: A Symbol of Unity and History

Located in the heart of Todmorden, the magnificent Todmorden Town Hall stands as a testament to the town's rich history and a symbol of its unique identity. This stunning neo-classical Grade I listed building is not just an architectural marvel but a landmark with a fascinating story.

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A Tale of Two Counties

One of the most remarkable things about Todmorden Town Hall is its origin. It was intentionally built across the historic county boundary of Lancashire and Yorkshire, a deliberate choice to help unite the rivalries between the two areas. Although the boundary was later moved in 1888 to place the entire town within Yorkshire, the hall's dual heritage remains a central part of its story.

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A Grand Opening

The hall's construction was a journey in itself. Originally designed by architect James Green, work was halted in the 1860s due to legal and financial challenges. The project was revived when the prominent Fielden family purchased the land and hall in 1866. They appointed John Gibson of Westminster to redesign the building, and it was finally completed and opened to the public on April 3, 1875, at a cost of £54,000.

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A Timeless Landmark

Todmorden Town Hall's striking design, with its grand columns and intricate details, is a sight to behold. It has been a central part of the community for over a century, hosting countless events and serving as a focal point for the town. Whether you're a history buff or an architecture enthusiast, this iconic building is a must-see landmark in West Yorkshire.

The pictures below were taken on the 28th November 2013 with a Samsung Galaxy Tablet, clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

This was taken from the grounds of St Mary's Church, the A646 Halifax Road heading off and the A646 Burnley Road going off towards the left of the picture.

The Yorkshire Bank Branch pictured here was closed in 2017, plans to convert the building to a branch of McDonalds were ongoing in 2019 prior to the Covid 19 Pandemic, these seem to have been abandoned and the building remains unused as of September 2023.

The front of the town hall, St Mary's Church is pictured to the left of the hall.

The rear of the building, again St Mary's Church is visible this time to the right of the hall.

The waterway that once separated the counties of Lancashire and Yorkshire ran underneath the hall, people dancing in the halls ballroom could start a dance in one county and finish in the other.

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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

The Lord Nelson Inn: A Historic Gem in Luddenden

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque village of Luddenden, West Yorkshire, the Lord Nelson Inn is more than just a pub—it's a living piece of history. Situated on High Street, it's the village's last remaining pub, making it a beloved gathering spot for locals and a well-regarded destination for visitors.

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A Pub with a Past

The building's story begins long before it became a public house. Constructed in 1634 as a home for local landowner Gregory Patchett, it was originally called Newhouse. By the mid-1700s, it had been converted into a pub, first known as the White Swan. Its current name, the Lord Nelson, was adopted in 1805 in honor of the British naval hero following the Battle of Trafalgar, and it has kept that name ever since.

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More Than Just a Public House

The Lord Nelson Inn has a storied past that goes beyond serving drinks. From 1776 to 1917, it housed the Luddenden Library. One of its most famous patrons was Branwell Brontë, the brother of the celebrated Brontë sisters, who was often seen at the pub during his time working at the nearby Luddendenfoot Railway Station. The inn has also served as a stand-in for the local St. Mary's Church for various functions, further cementing its role as a central hub of the community.

With its rich history and cosy atmosphere, the Lord Nelson Inn is a must-visit for anyone exploring the charming countryside of West Yorkshire. Have you ever visited a pub with such a fascinating history?

The 2 pictures below are all that remains of a set of 6 I took around the pub, they were taken on the 13th October 2013 with a Samsung Galaxy Tablet. Clicking on them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green photography store on Zazzle,

I took this from the garden - seating area at the junction of Old Lane and High Street.

I took this picture from the churchyard of St Mary's, the high building directly behind the Lord Nelson used to be the village school known as St Mary's Old School, it was closed in 1993 and is now a private residence.

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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

A Venetian Jaunt: A Photo Journey Through the Floating City

Venice, the "Floating City," is a place of undeniable magic. On a recent trip, I spent the day wandering through its labyrinthine streets and getting wonderfully lost. The weather was moody, with a mix of overcast skies and dramatic, fiery sunsets, which only added to the city's unique charm.

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Bridges, Canals, and Gondolas

Navigating Venice means crossing countless bridges, each with its own character. The city's famous canals are its highways, and the sleek, black gondolas are its taxis. Gliding through the water, you feel a sense of timelessness. Even on a gloomy day, the reflections of the ancient buildings shimmer on the canal surface, creating a mesmerizing effect.

Iconic Landmarks

My journey took me past some of Venice's most famous sights, including the magnificent Bridge of Sighs. It's a striking sight, connecting the Doge's Palace to the former prisons. I also came across the impressive bell tower of the Chiesa dei Santi Apostoli, which stands tall against the dramatic sky. The city is full of these architectural wonders, each with a story to tell.

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Hidden Gems and Artistic Details

One of the best parts of exploring Venice is discovering its hidden corners. I stumbled upon a grand entrance hall with a stunning mural, a testament to the city's rich artistic history. Every street, every doorway, and every intricate detail holds a piece of art waiting to be found. The city is a canvas, and its beauty is in the details, from the ornate ironwork to the vibrant, weathered facades of its buildings.

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Venice is more than just a destination; it's an experience. The sounds of water lapping against stone, the scent of the sea mixed with fresh Italian coffee, and the sight of centuries-old architecture coming to life at sunset—it all adds up to a truly unforgettable adventure.

The pictures below were taken on the 30th October 2018 with a Nikon d3300, I have tried to include their location in Venice. Clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green photography store on Zazzle.

Ponte di Canonoica.

The Bridge of Sighs from the Ponte di Canonica, the canal is the Rio del Palazzo.

Calle Larga L'Ascension, I took this just off San Marco Square looking towards the waterfront.

Rio Orseolo del Coval and the Hotel Cavalletto.

Calle Tron.

Bell Tower of Chiesa dei Santi Apostoli.

Ponte de San Paternian over the Rio di San Luca Canal.

This doorway and mural were in the same entrance hall area, I think they were taken either in the Accademia Bridge or San Marco Square areas of Venice.

Grand Canal Gondola Mooring at Calle della Carita.

Ponte de le Maravegie, the bell tower is the Campo San Trovaso

Cannaregio Canal.

Leonardo da Vinci Museum.

Rio del Palazzo Canal looking towards the Bridge of Sighs, the bridge between is the Ponte de Canonica.

Another of the Rio del Palazzo Canal, taken from the same bridge as above in the opposite direction.

Church of San Zaccaria.

Ponte de la Pieta on the San Marco sea front. The grey building is the Church of the Pieta.

Calle Tron at night.

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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.