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Andrew's Travels
Andrew's Travels

Andrew's Travels

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  • Andrew's TravelsDerbyshire; The Peak DistrictViaggiatore
    Old Hardwick Hall (viewed from "new" Hardwick Hall)
    Old Hardwick Hall; Old Elizabethan plaster friezeOld Hardwick HallClose up of some of the friezesHardwick Hall, viewed from Old Hardwick HallHardwick Hall is one of the finest Elizabethan buildings in the UKAnother view of Hardwick HallInside Hardwick Hall; applique embroidery of noble women and their virtuesApplique embroidery; Penelope flanked by Perseverance and PatienceWall tapestryElizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots, surrounded by tapestriesPenelope and UlyssesOne of the 13 Gideon Tapestries in the Long RoomClose up of the Coat of Arms and the Hardwick StagThe Sea Dog Table; the only one of its kind in the UK, and a very important piece of furnitureOne of the bedroomsWall friezeHardwick Hall GardenView back to Hardwick HallThe Old Stables

    Hardwick Hall

    2 agosto, Inghilterra ⋅ ☁️ 19 °C

    We're off to Bakewell in the Peak District National Park area of Derbyshire for a week; this is an area we have been to many times in the past.

    En route, we stop off at Hardwick Hall, near Chesterfield in Derbyshire. This is closely associated with the lady that built it; Elizabeth Hardwick, later the Countess of Shrewsbury, and popularly known as Bess of Hardwick. Bess was born in 1527 on the site of "old" Hardwick Hall and rose to a position of great power in Elizabethan society (partly due to four marriages to increasingly rich suitors - Barley, Cavendish, St Loe, Talbot!); she died in 1608.

    We visit Hardwick Old Hall first; it is now a towering roofless shell; built between 1587 and 1596 on a high rocky ridge,, it fell into disrepair after after the death of Bess"s husband, and she started preferring places like Chatsworth House and built the newer and grander Hardwick Hall. The old hall still has some lovely Elizabethan plaster friezes.

    Next to the old hall is the newer Hardwick Hall, one of the finest Elizabethan buildings in the UK, and built by Bess between 1590 and 1597. It is well known own for its rich furnishings, tapestries, and large windows, all of which have been preserved by Bess"s descendants, the Dukes of Cavendish, and now the National Trust.

    It has been an excellent diversion en route to our rented house in Bakewell.    Leggi altro

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  • Andrew's TravelsKentViaggiatore
    Margate Lido, Cliftonville
    Artwork and GraffitiThe Anthony Gormley sculpture (Another Time)Droight HouseThe old Margate LighthouseView across Nayland Rocks to MargateWestbrook; The Sunken GardenBee SculptureApproaching Westgate-on-SeaView back to Westgate PavilionWestgate-on-SeaWestgate-on-SeaBeach hutsCliff face detailEpple BayApproaching BirchingtonMinnis Bay Beach, BirchingtonMinnis Bay; beach huts in five shades of blue

    Viking Trail 2; Margate to Birchington

    14 giugno, Inghilterra ⋅ ☁️ 20 °C

    We're visiting Margate again, mainly to go to Dreamland; this time to attend Rewind, a concert featuring artists and bands from the 1980s. We arrived yesterday and had a walk around from our Airbnb at Cliftonville, an area on the north part of the town, seeing the Winter Garden and Old Town again (see earlier posts).

    Today, we continue on the Viking Trail on the Isle of Thanet part of Kent, this time in the opposite direction, from Margate heading west; the Viking Trail is a coastal path that coincides with part of the King Charles III England Coastal Walk.

    We walk down to the harbour area past the Turner Contemporary and Droight House and along Marine Terrace towards Nayland Rock (see previous posts as well!). From here, we carry on past St Mildred's Bay (backing onto Westbrook) and on towards Westgate-on-Sea; we pass here to Epple Bay and then carry on towards Birchington. Minnis Bay used to be one of the limits of the Isle of Thanet as the Wantsum Channel used to extend from here down to Sandwich, separating the island from the mainland; this channel has filled in due to natural silting and land reclamation over the 12 to 16th centuries, and the Isle of Thanet is now part of the UK mainland. It has been a good walk, covering 8.5 miles in pleasant weather; we take the bus back to Margate.

    Then it's Dreamland to see......

    Tiffany / Toyah / T'Pau / Heaven 17 / Nik Kershaw / Midge Ure (ex Ultravox) / Tony Hadley (ex Spandau Ballet)

    It was a fantastic evening for people of a certain age!    Leggi altro

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  • Andrew's TravelsThe Chiltern HillsViaggiatore
    Barton-le-Clay; St Nicholas' Church
    Barton Hills; View of Barton-le-Clay villageBarton Hills; View of the Sharpenhoe ClappersThe Barton HillsHexton; Village HallThe Raven at Hexton public houseRavensburgh is an old castle hillfort nearbyThe Pegsdon HillsView back from the Pegsdon HillsView from the Pegsdon HillsDeacon Hill; the trig point

    The Barton Hills and The Pegsdon Hills

    4 giugno, Inghilterra ⋅ ☁️ 14 °C

    The Chiltern Hills or The Chilterns are a chalk escarpment that stretches around 50 miles from The Thames at Goring in Oxfordshire, at the south-western edge, to Hitchin in Hertfordshire, at the north-eastern tip.  The area covers around 324 square miles of the countryside, and the Chilterns go across four English counties: Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, and Hertfordshire

    This visit is to the north-eastern area with the Cambridge Rambling Club as part of a figure of 8 walk from Hexton, near Hitchin.  From Hexton we walk part of the John Bunyan Trail and then head on towards Barton-le-Clay; this village is in Central Bedfordshire, and southeast of the parish are the Barton Hills, which form part of the northeast extremity of the Chiltern Hills and are designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty - much of this area of chalk downland is now a national nature reserve, managed by Natural England.  It is very beautiful, and there are Dartmoor ponies here during the summer months.  We then walk south for a while and back up to Hexton for a lunch break.

    We then walk towards Pegsdon and up to the Pegsdon Hills, another nature reserve managed by the Wildlife Trust; the reserve covers Pegsdon Hills, part of the adjacent Deacon Hill in Bedfordshire, and Hoo Bit in Hertfordshire and is in the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.  It is a lovely place for a walk, if a little steep in places!

    It has been a 12-mile walk in a very interesting area.    Leggi altro

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  • Andrew's TravelsLincolnshireViaggiatore
    Belton House
    West CourtyardThe rear of Belton HouseInside Belton House; Blue BedroomThe LibraryThe LibraryThe Red Drawing RoomAn interesting table supportInteresting mirror supportsHondecoeter RoomChinese BedroomWindsor BedroomIn the Formal Gardens; Church of St Peter and St Paul, on their other sideThe ConservatoryThe Italian GardenThe Italian GardenThe Dutch GardenThe Dutch Garden, from the rear of the HouseIn part of the Grounds; Mirror Pond and Garden TempleDeer on the grounds

    The Belton Estate; House and Gardens

    25 maggio, Inghilterra ⋅ 🌬 17 °C

    We visit the Belton Estate on our way home from Hawes in North Yorkshire.

    The Belton Estate is now managed by the National Trust and is a Grade 1 listed county house, which was the seat of the Brownlow family for about 3 centuries.

    We visit the house and its formal gardens; it is a very attractive property and an interesting place to visit - see captions on photos for details.    Leggi altro

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  • Andrew's TravelsNorth YorkshireViaggiatore
    1. Land rover; en route to Burtersett
    2. Sheep in field; en route to Burtersett3. Head of Roman soldier; Burtersett4. Shepherd and dog; en route to Gayle5. Cow; Gayle6. Candle; en route to Aysgill Force7. Curlew; Aysgill Force8. Fish symbol and rainbow; en route to Band's Lane9. Pink flower; Band's Lane10. Sunset; the end of Band's Lane11. Kestrel; turning off towards Appersett12 Yellow flower; en route to Appersett13. Steam train; Appersett Viaduct14. Lime kiln; Hardraw road junction15. Monk; en route to Simonstone16. Purple flower; en route to Sedbusk17. Goose; Sedbusk18. Red squirrel; footpath to Hawes19. Kingfisher; near the Stone House Hotel20. Brown trout; coming into Hawes

    Hawes Mosaic Trail

    24 maggio, Inghilterra ⋅ 🌧 13 °C

    The Hawes Mosaic Walk is a 2000 millennium project where the community of Hawes created a circular route with 20 mosaics to find. The walk starts at the Dales Countryside Museum and finishes at St Margaret's Church. The trail features 20 mosaics that depict aspects of Wensleydale's culture, history, landscape, flora, and fauna.

    We used a trail map to find the mosaics and did the trail in two stages by incorporating it into the local walks that we did around Hawes (see previous two posts). The pictures show the 20 mosaics, together with their titles and approximate locations. It made the two walks even more interesting!    Leggi altro

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  • Andrew's TravelsNorth YorkshireViaggiatore
    En route to Burtersett
    Old field barnLambsBurtersettView back to Burtersett from Shaw's LaneEn route to GayleView of Hawes Church of St MargaretView of the fellsView of Gayle from the bridgeEn route to Aysgill ForceAysgill ForceDuerly BeckAppersett ViaductView of field barnCrossing Appersett Bridge

    Hawes, Aysgill Force, and Appersett Walk

    24 maggio, Inghilterra ⋅ 🌬 13 °C

    The other very popular circular walk in Hawes is to Aysgill Force; we do this, but with extensions east and west to incorporate the Hawes Mosaic Trail (see next FP post).

    We leave Hawes and follow the footpath to Burtersett, known for being the seat of the Hillary family with connections to Sir Edmund Hillary, the famous mountaineer. The weather is overcast, but there are still good views over Upper Wensleydale with lots of sheep in the fields.

    From here, we walk up Shaw Lane towards the small hamlet of Gayle. Here, we cross the bridge and follow the path along Duerley Beck to Aysgill Force, a small but spectacular waterfall. After a while, we double back north towards Low Bands Farm via Bands Lane. We pass Thorny Mire house and turn up towards Appersett, going under Appersett Viaduct; this used to carry trains over the Beck from Garsdalw to Hawes, but was totally closed in 1964.

    From Appersett, we cross the bridge over the River Ure and walk up over fields (in the rain!), eventually bearing east towards Hardraw (see last post). From here, we follow the Pennine Way back to Hawes to complete an interesting 11-mile walk.

    We enjoy a lovely meal at The Fountain Inn later on. It's been a good weekend in Hawes.    Leggi altro

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  • Andrew's TravelsNorth YorkshireViaggiatore
    Hawes; view over a beck in the village
    Hawes; the former Victorian railway station, now the Dales Countryside MuseumHaxew; Meadowland barn near the villageHaylands BridgeHardraw ForceHardraw ForceView onto the field from the walk around the top of Hardraw ForceHardraw; Church of St Mary and St JohnInside the churchMemorial Bench en route to Simonstone HallView down to Hardraw en route to SedbuskLeaving SedbuskEn route to HawesView of Haylands Bridge and HawesHawes; Market HouseHawes; St Margaret's ChurchInside St Margaret's ChurchInside St Margaret's Church

    Hawes, Hardraw Force, and Sedbusk Walk

    23 maggio, Inghilterra ⋅ ☁️ 14 °C

    Hawes is a market town in North Yorkshire, in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, and at the head of Wensleydale; it is the main producer of Wensleydale Cheese.

    We set off on the Hawes Circular Walk from the site of the former Hawes Victorian railway station, now the Dales Countryside Museum, and pick up part of the Pennine Way, 268-mile long-distance footpath from Edale (in the Peak District) to Kirk Yetholm (just beyond the Scottish border). We cross Haylands Bridge over the River Ure and cross fields over to Hawdraw, a hamlet named after the nearby Hardraw Force waterfall; with a single 200 ft drop, it is claimed to be England's highest unbroken waterfall, discounting those underground. It is on private land, and we pay to enter, taking in both the lower and higher circuit walks. The Church of St Mary and St John here featured as Darrowby Church in the TV series "All Creatures Great and Small"

    Afterwards, we walk across fields to the Simonstone Hall Hotel and follow a footpath to the hamlet of Sedbusk. We then follow a footpath across more fields back Haylands Bridge and into Hawes. It has been a pleasant 6-mile walk.    Leggi altro

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  • Andrew's TravelsNorthern Lake DistrictViaggiatore
    Moot Hall
    Moot Hall, from behindThe Alhambra CinemaSt John's ChurchKeswick War MemorialThe Theatre by the LakeView of Catbells from the top of Stanger Road, where we stayedCastlerigg Stone CircleCastlerigg Stone Circle, with Skiddaw in the backgroundCastlerigg Stone CircleCastlerigg Stone CircleView from Castlerigg Stone Circle

    Keswick town and Castlerigg Stone Circle

    23 maggio, Inghilterra ⋅ ☀️ 11 °C

    We leave Keswick today for Hawes in North Yorkshire; the first part of the footprint photos shows some of the key sites in Keswick (see captions on photos for details).

    Castlerigg Stone Circle is a short walk from Keswick, but we drive here en route to Hawes; the location is atmospheric, with panoramic views around the Thirlmere Valley and the surrounding mountains. Castlerigg Stone Circle dates from about 3,000 BC and is 97 ft (30 metres) in diameter and now comprises 38 stones.

    Keswick and the surrounding area have been excellent (the good weather has helped), and we will certainly be back here.    Leggi altro

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  • Andrew's TravelsNorthern Lake DistrictViaggiatore
    View over Borrowdale
    En route; Eagle Crag behind HelenView over Stonethwaite BeckView over Stonethwaite Beck towards Eagle CragLangstrath Valley; view over Langstrath Beck to the ruins of Johnny HouseLangstrath ValleyLangstrath Valley; Blea RockLangstrath Valley; the route up to Blackmoss Pot, a bathing / dipping opportunity for someLangstrath ValleyThe footbridge over the beck to the other side of the Langstrath ValleyView from the bridgeView back over Langstrath BeckView up Langstrath Valley, walking back on the other sideLangstrath ValleyView over Stonethwaite BeckView from Stonethwaite BridgeThe Wainwright in Keswick

    The Langstrath Valley

    22 maggio, Inghilterra ⋅ ⛅ 9 °C

    The walk today is noted for being a lower level valley walk but offers beautiful fell and typical lakeland views without a lot of ascent.

    We take the Borrowdale bus again back to Rosthwaite; here, we join the Cumbria Way to follow the path along Stonethwaite Beck, passing the hamlet of Stonethwaite on the other side. The steep woodland along the dry stonewalls on our left ends, and we carry on to reach Galleny Force; unfortunately, the dry weather recently means that the waterfall is very quiet - the river bed is filled with boulders. We cross the Beck here to follow the Cumbria Way along Langstrath Beck as it winds along Langstrath Valley (Langstrath means Long Valley).

    It is very beautiful, we have Eagle Crag on our left rising above us and we soon pass the ruins of the Johnny House on the other side. We pass the impressive Blea Rock and eventually cross a footbridge over Langstrath Beck to retrace our route on the other side of the valley. Where we turn back towards Rosthwaite at the end of Langstrath Valley, we follow a pretty footpath along Stonethwaite Beck back to Stonethwaite. Here, we cross over Stonethwaite Bridge and walk back along the Cumbria Way to Rosthwaite.

    It's been lovely weather again for our 9.5-mile walk. Later on, we enjoy a couple of beers and a pub meal at The Wainwright in Keswick.    Leggi altro

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  • Andrew's TravelsNorthern Lake DistrictViaggiatore
    The Bowder Stone; 30 ft high and 2,000 tons in weight
    On the Bowder StoneA cubic shaped boulder entering the walk around Grange FellView over to Maiden Moor from Grange FellView of Troutdale cottages with Derwentwater and Skiddaw in the backgroundBorrowdale, from Grange BridgeView of Derwentwater en route to Castle CragNearing Castle CragEntering the walk up to Castle CragAt the top of Castle Crag; Derwentwater behindAt the top of Castle Crag; Borrowdale behindAt the top of Castle Crag; BorrowdaleAt the top of Castle Crag; view towards RosthwaiteAt the top of Castle Crag; the memorial to Borrowdale men who fell in WWIDescending Castle CragView back to Castle Crag en route to SeatollerEn route to SeatollerEn route to RosthwaiteNearing Rosthwaite

    Grange to Rosthwaite via Castle Crag

    21–24 mag, Inghilterra ⋅ ⛅ 14 °C

    We take the bus from Keswick to just south of Grange, to the stop for the Bowder Stone. This is one of the most famous rocks in the Lake District and weighs 2,000 tons; it is 30 ft high, 30 ft across, and 90 ft in circumference. From here, we follow the route around Grange Fell, passing a cubic shaped boulder and an old quarry before reaching Comb Gill en route to Troutdale Cottages. We follow the road a short distance to Grange Bridge and then, from Grange village, walk via Holmcrag Wood to join the Cumbria Way to Borrowdale (as yesterday) for a short way before turning off to take the path to Seatoller via Castle Crag.

    Castle Crag is an impressive slate hill overlooking Derwentwater; the other side of the hill is where we were yesterday, at the High Hows Quarry and the Millican Dalton Cave. The top of Castle Crag offers magnificent views of the surrounding area and has a memorial to the Borrowdale men who fell in WWI. The slate makes it a tough ascent and descent.

    We then carry on the route to Seatoller, crossing several gills en route. From the small village of Seatoller, the path to Rosthwaite is actually part of the coast-to-coast walk. We eventually reach Rosthwaite to take the bus back to Keswick.

    Surprisingly, it has been a walk of 1,854 ft ascent and 8.3 miles in length, and the weather has been fantastic again..    Leggi altro

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  • Andrew's TravelsNorthern Lake DistrictViaggiatore
    1View of Derwentwater en route to Catbells
    View of Bassenthwaite LakeView on the west sideGoing up CatbellsView downAt the summit of CatbellsAt the topView down to Friars CragView down to the southern end of DerwentwaterDescending Catbells towards ManstyView east towards Grange VillageEn route to Hollows FarmThe River Derwent in BorrowdaleNear the disused High Hows quarryMillican Dalton's CaveThe disused High Hows quarry areaThe River Derwent - totally dry hereNew Bridge, en route to RosthwaiteStepping stones over the River DerwentStepping stones over the River Derwent

    Portinscale to Rosthwaite via Catbells

    20 maggio, Inghilterra ⋅ ☀️ 16 °C

    The plan to take the bus to Catbells, the third of the Keswick 3 peaks, was thwarted due to ongoing roadwork, so we had to get off at Portinscale after a diversion there; it just means a longer walk!

    We repeat the Portinscale to Hawes End part from yesterday and start ascending Catbells from the cattle grid stop (where we should have got off). The ascent via Skelgill Bank is fairly steep, but there are great views on another lovely day. We reach the top; it is 1,480 feet above sea level, and one of the most popular fell walks in the Lake District with fabulous views.

    We carry on along the fell and then descend to the southern end of Derwentwater and Manesty Park. We proceed along the edge of Maiden Moor, enjoying views of Bull Crag and High Spy, towards Grange. Here, we join the Cumbria Way, eventually passing Hollows Farm before turning down towards the River Derwent and Borrowdale.

    The Valley is very scenic, and we come yo a disused quarry area for slate with a cave. The River Derwent is devoid of water in parts (it has not rained heavily for a while, which is unusual in the Lake District) after we leave the woods. We reach what is known as New Bridge and cross the river, following the Cumbria Way to Rosthwaite to catch the bus back to Keswick.

    It's been another lovely walk in great weather; 9.1 miles and a total of 2,139 feet of ascent.    Leggi altro

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  • Andrew's TravelsNorthern Lake DistrictViaggiatore
    View of Catbells en route to Portinscale
    Suspended footbridge over the River DerwentLlamas in a field at Alpacaly ever after, an enterprise near KeswickOtterbield BayView of CatbellsView over Derwentwater from the west shoreTeddy in the Window, who has lived in a garage on the edge of Derwentwater for over 30 yearsView of Latrigg and Walla Crag from the bridge over the River DerwentSkiddaw, Latrigg, and Walla Crag in the backgroundCatbells viewed from the east shoreWalla Crag viewed from Barrow BayAshness Gate landing stage, with Catbells in the backgroundView from Catclose Bay of "the jaws of Borrowdale", the southern end of DerwentwaterFriars Crag; the poet John Ruskin MemorialFriars Crag; view of Lord's Island

    Derwentwater Lake Circuit

    19 maggio, Inghilterra ⋅ ⛅ 12 °C

    The plan today is to walk around Derwentwater; we head down Keswick Main Street and cross the bridge over the River Greta before turning off to join the Cumbria Way as it runs along the west shore of Derwentwater; the Cumbria Way is a linear 70 mile walk that connects the towns of Carlisle and Ulverston. We walk towards Portinscale and then follow it to Hawes End Jetty; this is the landing stage for the main walk to Catbells, another of the Keswick 3 peaks.

    We follow the Cumbria Way to Otterbield Bay, and on past the two Brandelhow landing stages to Manesty Park at the southern end of the lake. We leave the Cumbria Way here and carry on to the cross the River Derwent again; there are great views of Catbells and Walla Crag from here. From Lodore, we walk northwards towards Keswick via the edge of woodlands to Barrow Bay and on to Ashness Gate landing stage (more great views). We then proceed via Calfclose Bay and Stable Hills to Friars Crag, named for its use as a disembarkment point for monks, making a pilgrimage to St Herbert's Island. It is a short walk back to Keswick from here; it has been a lovely 10.6-mile walk.    Leggi altro

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  • Andrew's TravelsNorthern Lake DistrictViaggiatore
    View of Derwentwater and Catbells en route to Rakefoot
    View of Latrigg and Skiddaw going up to Walla CragView of Keswick going up to Walla CragView of Derwentwater from the top of Walla CragTop of Walla CragView of the southern part of Derwentwater heading to Falcon CragView of SkiddawAshness Bridge, a packhorse bridgeAshness Bridge, a packhorse bridgeOld barn near Ashness BridgeView en route heading towards Surprise ViewWoodland path up to Surprise ViewDerwentwater from Surprise ViewWatendlath BeckRedcastle Crag viewed across Watendlath BeckWatendlath packhorse bridgeWatendlath TarnEn route to Rosthwaite

    Keswick to Rosthwaite, via Walla Crag

    18 maggio, Inghilterra ⋅ ☀️ 13 °C

    This walk takes us up to Walla Crag, also one of the Keswick three peaks.

    We walk up via Moot Hall in Keswick Market Square and up past St John's Church before following Springs Road to Springs Farm, and then up through Springs Wood to Rakefoot. There are good views as we walk up past Great Wood to Walla Crag, but even better views from the viewing area at the top of Walla Crag!

    We leave here and follow the path towards Falcon Crag and then down to Ashness Bridge; this is a small, traditional packhorse bridge and very photogenic. From here, there is a narrow road through the woods up to Surprise View, named for its lovely view of Derwentwater. We turn off the road and follow a broad track through the woods, and at the end, we walk along the Watendlath Beck, which takes us to the small hamlet of Watendlath, managed by the National Trust. It is situated by an attractive Tarn and also noted for its packhorse bridge.

    We then follow a very stony and undulating bridleway towards Rosthwaite to catch the bus back to Keswick. It's been a lovely walk of 9.8 miles (according to the OS app on my mobile).    Leggi altro

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  • Andrew's TravelsNorthern Lake DistrictViaggiatore
    The old Keswick Railway Station
    View down the River GretaRiver Greta towards the fellsView en routeView en routeView of remote farmhouseDerwent Water from LatriggDerwent Water from LatriggView of Skiddaw from LatriggView of Catbells from LatriggView of Walla Crag from LatriggView of River Greta from Fitz Park on the way back to Keswick centre1Keswick Brewery; The Fox Tap and Beer Shop

    Latrigg Fell Circular Walk

    17 maggio, Inghilterra ⋅ ☀️ 15 °C

    We arrived yesterday in Keswick to spend a week in the Lake District, this time in the northern area. Keswick is a market town in Cumbria, just north of Derwent Water.

    Latrigg (Fell) is one of the lowest fells in the Lake District, and one of the Keswick "3 Peaks" - the others are Walla Crag and Catbells - which surround Derwent Water. By coincidence, this weekend is the annual Keswick Mountain Festival, which features various outdoor adventures, speakers, and live music; one event is the sponsored 3 peaks hike, a figure of 8 walk around Derwent Water, covering Catbells and Walla Crag, and then around and up Latrigg. We see a number of entrants on this 17.5-mile hike as we do our 1 Peak circular walk!

    We start at the Moot Hall in Keswick and cross the River Greta to Fitz Park before heading east via the trail along the old Keswick to Threlkeld railway line. After a while, we pass under the A66 and recross the River Greta, leaving the railway trail, to walk along a forested path. We eventually turn to walk up Latrigg, enjoying magnificent views on the way to, and at, the top of Latrigg (1,203 feet). From the top, it's down via Mallen Dodd, and then the Cumbria Way back to Keswick.

    It's been a lovely 7.6-mile walk in fine weather; a drink at the Keswick Brewery and its Fox Tap and Beer Shop is well justified!    Leggi altro

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  • Andrew's TravelsCambridgeshire; Hunts DistrictViaggiatore
    View of Woodwalton Fen after leaving Upwood
    Great Raveley Drain towards Woodwalton FenWoodwalton FenThe Rothschild Bungalow; used by Charles Rothschild as a base for his tripsOne of the many waterways here; the water is black due to peatView over the Fenland from the other side of Woodwalton FenWalking back through Woodwalton FenA nesting SwanA walker!View of Manor Farm across Rapeseed oil fieldsManor FarmChurch End; the redundant Church of St AndrewWoodwalton village sign with The Dog and Castle pub in the backgroundLady's Wood; bluebellsUpwood Meadows; orchidsUpwood; St Peter’s ChurchInside St Peter’s Church

    Woodwalton Fen, Woodwalton, and Upwood

    30 aprile, Inghilterra ⋅ ⛅ 16 °C

    These places were visited on a 13.7 mile walk with the Cambridge Rambling Club - a bit of a longer walk than usual!

    The walk starts in Upwood, a village in the parish of Upwood and the Raveleys, approx. 7 miles north of Huntingdon and still part of Cambridgeshire.  We leave the village heading due west and then south past Lady's Wood before heading north along the Great Raveley Drain towards Woodwalton Fen.  

    Woodwalton Fen is a site of Special Scientific Interest and managed by Natural England; it is one of only four remaining fragments of the ancient wild fens that once stretched for 1,350 square miles across the area and a last haven for many rare fen species (not that we saw them).  The ancient wild fens once stretched for miles across a huge part of East Anglia, but more than 99% of the habitat disappeared when the land was drained for agriculture, and this site would not exist today if it were not for Charles Rothschild, a successful banker, wildlife enthusiast and "father of modern conservation".  We walk along several of the trails before leaving on the other side and walking south towards Manor Farm and Church End, where the redundant parish church of St Andrew stands - it is now in the keeping of the Friends of Friendless Churches.  From there, it is still over a mile to the village Woodwalton itself.  

    From Woodwalton, we then walk east passing through Lady's Wood, an 18-acre nature reserve west of Upwood, and then through Upwood Meadows National Nature Reserve and a biological Site of Special Scientific Interest, before arriving back in Upwood.  It has been a lovely walk on a lovely day in an area I have never visited before.    Leggi altro

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  • Andrew's TravelsNorfolkViaggiatore
    Visitor Centre
    Visitor centre; picture of Grime's Graves from aboveVisitor centre; Tools used and flint specimensDescending into Pit 1Bottom of the shaftView into a mining area and the bottom floorstone (flint)View into a mining area and the bottom floorstone (flint seam)Middle wallstone (note the flint seam)Upper topstone (note the flint seam)Grimshoe Mound (at the back); Grim's burial mound, from "Grim's Howe"General view of the areaGeneral view of the area

    Grime's Graves

    16 aprile, Inghilterra ⋅ ☁️ 11 °C

    We arrive at Grime's Graves and go to the visitor centre first.

    The name Grime's Graves means "pits of the pagan god Grim" (Grim is also known as Woden) and was named by the Anglo Saxons. It is a prehistoric / Neolithic flint mine that was worked between 2,600 and 2,300 BC; the site covers about 91 acres, and there are many shafts dug into the natural chalk to reach the seams of flint.  There are three layers of flint here - the upper "top-stone, middle "wall-stone" and the bottom "floor-stone" - and the flint was used for making stone axes in this period,  The formation of flint is a complex process which began in the chalk seas millions of years ago, and flint forms in bands or layers because chalk sedimentation occurs in cycles and/or because the process during formation exhausts the silica within a given depth of sediment and flint formation can only recommence when there is enough silica to start the process again.  The site was first extensively explored by the archaeologist William Greenwell in 1868.

    We visit the one pit open to the public (9m deep, with a steep staircase) - it is the only one of its kind open to the public in the UK - and we enter it to explore the shaft.  Afterwards, we take the walking trail around the site; Grime's Graves is a really interesting place to visit.    Leggi altro

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  • Andrew's TravelsNorfolk Coastal PathViaggiatore
    Caister-on-Sea; Village Sign
    Caister-on-Sea; Council HallCaister Roman FortCaister-on-Sea; Caister Point, by the stone lionsDiverting to the beach at ScratbyThe reason for the diversion - coastal erosion at HemsbyApproaching Winterton-on-SeaWinterton lighthouse and traditional Norfolk roundhouses (holiday lets)Winterton; view of Church of the Holy Trinity and All SaintsGroynes along the beach at Winterton DunesHorsey Gap; a sandy beach down for its grey seal colonyEn route from Horsey GapEn route from Horsey GapView of Waxham Hall, now a farmA dragon along the footpath towards Sea PallingSea Palling; Lifeboat Station

    Caister-on-Sea to Sea Palling

    15 aprile, Inghilterra ⋅ 🌧 10 °C

    Caister-on-Sea, also known as Caister, is a large village, seaside resort, and civil parish 2.75 miles north of Great Yarmouth and 18 miles east of Norwich.  Caister's history dates back to Roman times, and around 200 CE a fort was built here as a base for a unit of the Roman army and navy (which we visit as we leave the village).  

    We start from Caister Lifeboat Station and pass Caister Point on our way to California Gap and beyond; the Coastal Path has to divert to the beach at Scratby due to extensive coastal erosion further up towards, and at, Hemsby.  We can leave the beach here and re-join the footpath towards Winterton-on-Sea; there are excellent views along here, and at Winterton the path goes down to the beach and proceeds along the Winterton Dunes, a national nature reserve, as far as Winterton Ness where we re-join a footpath towards Horsey Gap. 

    Horsey Gap is a sandy beach known for its grey seal colony (we see some in the distance), and is a nature reserve that is part of the Norfolk Broads National Park; there are many groynes here, all numbered to help identify location of the seal pups.  The path takes us along Delve Bank towards Waxham and beyond to Sea Palling; Sea Palling Lifeboat Station is a voluntary-staffed and charitable-funded lifeboat station located in the village.    Leggi altro

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  • Andrew's TravelsNorfolk Coastal PathViaggiatore
    Hopton-on-Sea; the start of the Norfolk Coastal Path (in the other direction!)
    Hopton-on-Sea; view of holiday camp and GroynesGorleston; cliffsGorleston; view of the Pavilion TheatreGorleston; the old lighthouseGorleston; an old jetty, formerly known as a dolphin, in the River YareGreat Yarmouth; view of Nelson's Monument (Norfolk Naval Pillar)Great Yarmouth; St Mary's Church, SouthtownGreat Yarmouth; view of the Town Hall from the bridge over the River YareGreat Yarmouth; Town HallGreat Yarmouth; remains of the Grey FriaryGreat Yarmouth; St George's Church, now a theatreGreat Yarmouth; St George's ParkGreat Yarmouth; The EmpireGreat Yarmouth; Brittania PierGreat Yarmouth; Venetian Waterways ParkGreat Yarmouth; Venetian Waterways ParkGreat Yarmouth; Venetian Waterways Park - the boating lakeCaister-on-Sea; view of Scroby Sands Wind Farm from the dunes en route from Great YarmouthRNLI Caister Lifeboat Station

    Hopton to Caister via Great Yarmouth

    14 aprile, Inghilterra ⋅ ⛅ 11 °C

    We take the Coastal Hopper bus from Caister-on-Sea to Hopton-on-Sea and cross through the Potters Resort, a holiday seaside resort, to the start (or end) of the Norfolk Coastal Path.

    We start walking up the coastal path before and follow it as it descends to the beach. We reach Gorleston-on-Sea, a seaside town in the south of the borough of Great Yarmouth, and situated on the River Yare. Gorleston was a centre for fishing, but the decline in this industry during Edwardian times changed to a seaside resort. The footpath follows along the road through Southtown, originally known as Little Yarmouth, but now part of the Great Yarmouth district.

    We cross the bridge over the River Yare into Great Yarmouth itself; it has been a resort since 1760, as it is a gateway to the Norfolk Broads and the North Sea, and holidaymaking rose in 1844 when the railway opened -it has blossomed as a resort during the 20th century. The Coastal path heads towards the South Quay area, but then then crosses over towards the coast, past the friary ruins, and St George's Park. We walk along the promenade and divert through Venetian Waterways Park; this was constructed in 1926 by local men to boost post-war employment.

    We carry on along the North Beach, where there are lots of sand dunes, up towards Caister-on-Sea; we head back to the accommodation at RNLI Caister Lifeboat station; it has been a 10.3 mile walk, with lots of interesting sites - see captions on photos for details.    Leggi altro

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  • Andrew's TravelsSuffolkViaggiatore
    Ickworth House; overall view from the rear, from a photograph there
    Rotunda; view from the rearRotundaRotunda; front view with corridors to the East and West wingsRotunda Entrance Hall, wirh The Fury of Athamas sculptureUpper floor; Metalled silk dressUpper floor; view of the East Wing, now a hotelUpper floor; Silver fish!Ground floor; curved corridor to the east wingGround floorGround floor; Pompeian RoomGround Floor; Pompeian Room - Marble specimen table topGround floorGround floorBasement; kitchenGrounds; View of Walled Garden and the Summerhouse over the River LinnetGrounds; Church of St MaryChurch of St Mary; interior

    Ickworth House

    13 aprile, Inghilterra ⋅ ⛅ 13 °C

    We are on en route to Caister-on Sea to walk some more of the Norfolk Coastal Path and divert to stop off en route at Ickworth House, near Bury St Edmunds.

    Ickworth House is a National Trust property and is a large neo-classical / Italianate country house set in Parkland. It was built by Frederick Hervey, the 4th Earl of Bristol, and also the Bishop of Derry, between 1795 and 1829. The "Earl Bishop," as he was known, travelled extensively in Europe and was inspired to build the Italian inspired Rotunda to live in, with galleries in the in the east and west wings to showcase the art and sculptures collected in his travels. It has been the chief dwelling of the Hervey family since then, before being passed to the National Trust in 1956.

    We walk around the rotunda and east and west wings of the house, seeing the upstairs, ground floor, and basement (see captions on photos for details).

    We then explore some of the gardens and grounds, walking the River Linnet trail, with part of Lady Hervey's walk for views of the Walled Garden. We then visit the Italianate Garden and walk the Alabana Wood Trail.

    It has been a great visit.    Leggi altro

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  • Andrew's TravelsCambridgeshire; East DistrictViaggiatore
    Find the Flock trail map
    1. Shaun the Sheep2. Shaunberry (zoom in on the caption for a corny joke!)3. What Ewe-eat! (zoom in on the caption for a corny joke!)4. Shaunucopia (zoom in on the caption for a corny joke!)5. River Baaank (zoom in on the caption for a corny joke!)7. Garden Plaaants (zoom in on the caption for a corny joke!)8. Sunshine (zoom in on the caption for a corny joke!)9. Jungle Baa-nanza (zoom in on the caption for a corny joke!)10. Barbed-baa (zoom in on the caption for a corny joke!)11. Lemon Drop (zoom in on the caption for a corny joke!)12. Shaun the Shape (zoom in on the caption for a corny joke!)Birds of a Feather (zoom in on the caption for a corny joke!)

    Anglesey Abbey 3; Finding the Flock

    9–12 apr, Inghilterra ⋅ ☀️ 11 °C

    Anglesey Abbey is hosting a Wild in Art trail in its gardens and grounds over the Easter period based on the character Shaun the Sheep; Shaun the Sheep is a British stop-motion animated silent children's television series, and a spin-off in the Wallace & Gromit franchise.  There are twelve uniquely decorated Shaun the Sheep sculptures on the ‘Find the Flock’ trail; each 160cm sculpture has been painted by either a national or international artist with bright colours and bold patterns.  After the event, the sheep sculptures will be returned to their respective owners.

    On this visit to Anglesey Abbey, we decide to pick up a trail map and follow the Follow the Flock route around the grounds to see all twelve of the sculptures.  It is interesting to see them, as well as the grounds themselves again!

    The location numbers are shown on the map, and these numbers and sculpture names are shown on the picture captions.    Leggi altro

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  • Andrew's TravelsCambridgeshire; East DistrictViaggiatore
    Anglesey Abbey; map of the gardens and grounds
    The Rose GardenMemorial StatueThe Formal Garden; there is a statue of Father Time hereThe Formal GardenDahlia GardenGroup of statuesHerbaceous GardenLode MillLode Mill; insideStatueThe Temple LawnLarge Urn

    Anglesey Abbey 2; Gardens and Grounds

    9 aprile, Inghilterra ⋅ ☀️ 10 °C

    We have also visited the gardens and grounds of Anglesey Abbey many times over the last 3 years, and this post shows them; the garden at Anglesey Abbey was developed by the 1st Lord Fairhaven from 1926 and has become one of the British Isles' most beautiful 20th century gardens.

    After entry, it is convenient to walk to the house (see previous post) and see the formal gardens; these comprise 4 small gardens, including the dahlia garden, rose garden and a semi-circular herbaceous border.  From here, we walk through the herbaceous garden and then along Quy Water towards Lode Mill; this is a historic watermill that was acquired Lord Fairhaven in 1926 and restored it to its original corn-milling condition (after Lode Mill, Quy Water becomes Bottisham Lode, a branch of the River Cam).  This walk brings us back towards the entrance where we drop off and walk along tree lined avenues and other footpaths to see more of Lord Fairhaven's impressive collection of statues that is positioned throughout the gardens and the grounds.

    It is always interesting to visit the gardens at all times of the year.    Leggi altro

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  • Andrew's TravelsCambridgeshire; East DistrictViaggiatore
    Anglesey Abbey House; the entrance
    Anglesey Abbey House; rear viewThe Anglesey Abbey clock; 250 years oldPiano roomDetail of old furnitureA dramatic entranceLibraryView upstairsBedroomThe domestic wingThe domestic wingThe domestic wingThe domestic wing

    Anglesey Abbey 1; The House

    9 aprile, Inghilterra ⋅ ☀️ 10 °C

    Helen and I have been members of the National Trust for a few years now and have visited Anglesey Abbey many times.

    Anglesey Abbey is in the village of Lode, 5.5 miles northeast of Cambridge; the property includes a country house, built on the remains of a priory, large gardens and landscaped grounds, totalling 98 acres, and a working mill (Lode Mill).  After an interesting history, the house was acquired by Lord Fairhaven as the last private owner of Anglesey Abbey; he made extensive additions to the house to provide room for his rapidly expanding collection of books, paintings, tapestries, clocks, furniture and objets d'art, and he left it to the National Trust when he died in 1966.  The interior is noted for its contents, as well as the beautiful rooms (see captions on photos).  

    This post describes a visit to the interior of the house that we have made previously (see captions on photos for details).    Leggi altro

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  • Andrew's TravelsCambridgeshire; South DistrictViaggiatore
    1Northstowe
    Northstowe (taken earlier in the year)Northstowe (taken earlier in the year)Northstowe (taken earlier in the year)Rampton; Village Sign / Village greenRampton; All Saints Church - one of two thatched Churches in CambridgeshireMedieval wall paintingNave roofThe decorated Tomb of a D'Isle in Crusader clothingGiant's Hill; the earthwork remains of a motte and bailey castle - still partly surrounded by a moatView towards NorthstoweWestwick HallRAF Oakington pillboxOakington; Village signSt Andrew's ChurchOakington Martyrs Gravestones; a memorial to non- conformist ProtestantismLongstanton; St Michael's Church, with the holy well in the foregroundSt Michael's Church; the second thatched Church in CambridgeshireEn route back to Northstowe; one of the eight cantilevered pillboxes around RAF Oakington

    Northstowe and neighbouring villages

    2 aprile, Inghilterra ⋅ ☀️ 12 °C

    Northstowe is a new town in Cambridgeshire; the site covers Oakington Barracks on the former RAF Oakington, a World War II airfield.  Northstowe is now a civil parish formed from Longstanton and Oakington and Westwick in April 2021; building first started in the early 2015, is ongoing, and forecast to have 24,400 residents in 10,000 homes long term. There are many new houses, but not many amenities, and, on the outskirts, there are small lakes

    It is convenient to start a circular walk from here from the Longstanton Park and Ride site here, and I do so with the Cambridge Rambling Club Wed A group.  We set off and walk close to the Park and Ride and one of the several small lakes here before turning off towards Rampton. The village is situated on the edge of The Fens and was well populated in Roman times before vanishing and reappearing in the Anglo-Saxon period.  The attractive Church of All Saints is one of a very few English churches with a thatched roof and one of only two in Cambridgeshire.  After stopping here, we pass the earthwork remains of a castle, known as Giant's Hill, are located to the east of the village by the church; construction started about 1140, but it was never completed.

    We now head south towards the parish of Oakington and Westwick, passing Westwick Hall, before diverting to Histon (to be covered in a future FP post). Later on, we rejoin the route and carry on to Oakington.  In 1940, a Royal Air Force bomber airfield, RAF Oakington, was constructed at Oakington covering 540 acres and this is reflected in the village sign; the site of the barracks is in the process of forming part of Northstowe.  In the 17th century, Oakington was considered to be a "hot-bed of religious dissent"; behind the churchyard of St Andrew's Church, there is a private burial ground containing the graves of three vicars who helped establish the non-conformist movement and various non-conformist churches in Cambridgeshire. Ejected from their livings, persecuted and imprisoned for propagating their faith during their lives, they became known as the 'Oakington Martyrs' in death.

    We carry on to the outskirts of Longstanton; the village was transformed by the opening of RAF Oakington in 1940, resulting in the building of three new housing estates in the village and a trebling of the population.  We passed St Michael's Church, situated towards the south of the village, built around 1230 and the second rare example of a church with a thatched roof in Cambridgeshire; it is now a Grade II listed building.

    We then follow the paths back to the Park and Ride, passing a cantilevered pillbox that was part of the RAF Oakington site, before seeing a bit more of Northstowe; it has been an interesting 12.4 mile walk.    Leggi altro

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  • Andrew's TravelsCambridgeshire; Cambridge CityViaggiatore
    Spacecraft; the Museum of Technology
    Octospa; Sedgwick StreetReality Checkpoint; Parker's PieceTeloport-o-matic; Market SquareLove from above; All Saints Garden, Trinity StreetRide and Park portal; Jesus Lock footbridgeRocket Rocket; Green StreetWonder Emporium; Sussex StreetMage's Pages; Cambridge Press bookstore, Trinity StreetDinky Shrinky; Entopia Building, Parkside10 (and a quarter) Downing Street; outside The New Museum site

    Dinky Doors

    26 marzo, Inghilterra ⋅ ⛅ 13 °C

    Dinky Doors are a series of miniature sculptures (with doors), lovingly made and hidden just out of plain sight in the beautiful city of Cambridge; they are intended as little portals into other worlds, made with a dollop of humour to spark imaginations and make people smile - and there is usually a story behind them.  The artists "dream of a world where the young, old, rich and poor can experience a 'jolt of joy’ or a ‘dollop of delight’ to brighten their day and momentarily forget their worries.  They were involved with "Moomoo-o-Tron III," one of the Cows about Cambridge (see other FP trip, July 2022)  which was auctioned off to raise money for charity.

    The artworks change over time and mysteriously appear in various locations; here are those that I have seen in situ:

    1.  Museum of Technology - Here, a  spaceship containing the Dinky Doors Supreme Leader has crashed into the wall.

    2.  Sedgewick Street - The Octospa artwork incorporates a bollard on the street which has been painted to look like a lighthouse; in front, there's a lighthouse keeper’s cottage (including the door) and, just outside, an octopus enjoying a spa bath in a flower bed.

    3. Parker's Piece - Situated at Reality Checkpoint, where the reality bubble of "gown" meets the reality of "town."

    4. Market Square - The Teloport-o-matic is a new and improved teleportation service costing only 3 pence.

    5. All Saints Garden - Love from above has a present on a doorstep for a demon behind the door; the present has been left by an angel on the roof above.

    6. Jesus Lock footbridge - The Ride and Park portal enables you to get a ride to Wandlebury or Milton Country Parlk, depending on your choice.

    7. Green Street - Rocket Rocket is a vehicle ror going off to find the Supreme Leader, powered by rocket (arugula).

    8. Sussex Street - Wonder Emporium is a little storefront where various knick knacks can be purchased for 3p each (genuine 3p coins only).

    9. Trinity Street - Mage's Pages outside the Cambridge Press bookstore a little book garden tended by a Bookmage and the source of all the books in the store.

    10. Parkside - Dinky Shrinky outside the Entopia Building on Regent Street next to Parkside is a solar-powered shrink ray and observation laboratory that can shrink both unhappiness and also CO2 emissions.

    11. Downing Street - 10 (and a quarter) Downing Street outside the New Museum site has a purple octopus pouring out of the door panels (perhaps from the Zoology Museum on the other side of the wall).    Leggi altro

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  • Andrew's TravelsImperial War Museum DuxfordViaggiatore
    Curtiss Hawk 75 (G-GCVH); built in the USA and used in the Battle of France
    Supermarine Spitfire Mk I (G-CFGJ); used in the Battle of BritainClose up of the Supermarine Spitfire Mk I (G-CFGJ): it is owned by IWM DuxfordA second Submarine Spitfire Mk I (X-4650); also used in the Battle of BritainHawker Hurricane Mk I (G-ROBT); used in the Battle of BritainA second Hawker Hurricane Mk I (G-HUPW); also used in the Battle of BritainBristol Blenheim Mk I (G-BPIV); it flew numerous sorties in the Battle of BritainHispanic HA-1112 M1L Buchon (G-AWHK); it has appeared in both a film and in a TV seriesMG Midget TA (GPC 671); originally owned by Douglas Bader

    Scramble! - The Summer of 1940

    13 febbraio, Inghilterra ⋅ ☁️ 4 °C

    It is that time of year again when IWM Duxford holds its winter spotlight exhibition; this year, it is "Scramble!" - the signal for RAF pilots in the Summer of 1940 during the Battle of Britain to run to their aircraft, take off, and engage the Luftwaffe in a battle for the skies. 

    The exhibition brings together some of the aircraft that actually flew during the Summer of 1940 during both the The Battle of France and The Battle of Britain campaigns; the captions on the photos describe where they were used.

    All exhibits have an interesting history. For example, the first Supermarine Spitfire Mk I (G-CFGJ) is the only airworthy aircraft in this IMW collection; it was issued to RAF Duxford in April 1940 flown by Squadron Leader Geoffrey Stephenson and was shot down in late May 1940 onto a beach near Calais - the remains were rediscovered in the 1980s; it returned to flight in 2014 and was then gifted to IWM Duxford. In addition, the Hispano Buchon was a Spanish license-built version of the Messerschmitt Bf 109 fighter - it featured in the film "Dunkirk" and the TV series "SAS Rogue Heroes". Furthermore, the MG Midget TA (GPC 671) car is of interest because it was registered to Douglas Bader who led the five-squadron "Big-Wing" from RAF Duxford in Sept 1940; Bader owned it until 1946, and is now in private ownership.

    Another interesting exhibition at IWM Duxford.    Leggi altro

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  • Andrew's TravelsSouthern IndiaViaggiatore
    Panch Rathas; Draupad Ratha / Arjuna Ratha / Bhima Ratha / Nakul Sahdeva Ratha
    Draupad Ratha (built in the style of a thatched tribal shrine); a Durga Panel inside itPanch Rathas, viewed from the other end - Bhima Ratha / Dharmaraja RathaBhima Ratha; front / rearDharmaraja Ratha; an imposing three storey RathaDharmaraja Ratha; carved niche figuresNandi, carved out of a single rock, faces the Arjuna RathaStanding Lion / Standing ElephantThe Shore Temple; dedicated to VishnuView showing two Nandi bull statuesPeople at the Shore Temple / View of Mamallapuram from the Shore TempleArjuna's Penance; aka The Descent of the GangesSculpted relief at the sidePanch Pandava Cave Temple; unfinishedKrishna's Butter Ball; a natural boulder perched precariously on a slopeTrimurti Cave Temple; dedicated to three Gods - Shiva, Vishnu, SomaskandaSculpture showing elephants, monkey, and peacock / School group having lunchView of the Shore Temple from Mamallapuram / View of the shore from Santana RestaurantFinall group photo, including Jojan (in the centre)

    Tamil Nadu; Mahabalipuram

    8 febbraio, India ⋅ ⛅ 29 °C

    Our train arrives in Chennai at 6:45 am, having left Mysore at 8 pm yesterday evening; it stopped at many places, including Bangalore. It was a second-class sleeper and a long night. From Chennai, we travel south along the shores to Mahabalipuram on the Bay of Bengal, stopping off for a well-deserved dosa breakfast.

    Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, was once a major port built in the 7th century by Mamalla, a Pallavas king; it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to masterful rock carvings from that time - these still exist today. The area is a boulder strewn landscape, and these were used for the rock carvings

    We visit Panch Rathas (Five Rathas - a Ratha is a processional chariot), a 7th century complex of monolithic rock shrines to honour the five Pandara brothers (see captions on photos for details).

    Next, we visit the Shore Temple; dedicated to Vishnu. It was built by Mamalla on a promontory by the sea; it used to be accessed by the beach, but the 2004 tsunami led to the building of walkway access. There is also a smaller shrine dedicated to Shiva that was added later.

    We then go to Arjuna's Penance, aka The Descent of the Ganges, a celebrated bas-relief carved on an immense rock with a natural vertical cleft symbolising the River Ganges; the story depicts the Sacerd River's descent from the sky, made possible by the penance of the sage Arjuna (Bhagirata).

    There are other smaller temples, monuments, and cave-temples in the area around Arjuna's Penance, and we walk around to see these.

    Later on in the evening, we walk down into Mahabalipuram to the Santana Fish Restaurant by the beach for our farewell dinner. Helen and I shared a fish curry, grilled fish with French fries, and washed it down with some British Empire beer.

    It's been a fantastic trip.    Leggi altro

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