On the Moors

Today, on a very wet day which also happens to be our 55th wedding anniversary, we decided to take a drive to the moors despite the drizzle. It was quite misty and difficult to take photos as the rain fell, but we enjoyed the change of scenery.  Once out of the car I could hear the distinctive cry of curlews, saw birds flying high in the sky and a pheasant.

Strines Reservoir and the derelict Boot's Folly

The area still looks green. Flocks of sheep were grazing here and there and we did spot a couple who had wandered onto the road. Thankfully most of them were contained within the fencing and drystone walls.

There are a one or two farms in the area and this quirky looking house nestled in a woody hollow.

Back down in Bradfield Dale and the outskirts of Low Bradfield Village

we stopped by the reservoir keeper's house.

I was glad that I had walked by the reservoir on a day when it was drier.

Joie de Vivre roses in our front garden

Thank you for your visit and I hope you have a peaceful weekend.  We shall be going to our local daughter's home and will continue celebrating our wedding anniversary and Father's Day on Sunday.

A weekend walk: High Bradfield and Damflask Reservoir

Another busy week in our house. On Sunday we had family visitors coming at teatime, but we managed to go out for a short drive and walk beforehand. The weather was good, but just as we got back indoors the clouds rolled over and there were snow showers for a while before the sun came out again!

I've written about Bradfield many times so I won't add much more other than posting some photos and some new information that you might find interesting.  There's always more to find out about the history of a place even one that's so close to where we live and has become familiar and I'm sure this post won't be the last on Bradfield Dale.

This narrow path leads down to Low Bradfield and follows the contours of the hill.  It's known as the Kirkgate Steps or the Fairy Steps.  Actually, it's a well-worn "burial path" which made it easier in past times for villagers in the lower settlement to walk up the hill bringing coffins to the church.  As you can imagine, even today, it's difficult for vehicles to get up these steep hills in snowy or icy weather conditions.  The path ends by the main entrance gates to the churchyard and the Watch House.

snowdrops in the graveyard

We could have sat outside on the balcony of The Old Horns Inn and enjoyed the view (first photo), but it was very cold and we were glad to sit inside by the fire.  

Before going back home along the top road we stopped for another walk along the path by Damflask Reservoir near the rowing and sailing club. There were no boats out on the water, but quite a few joggers and walkers taking some exercise.

As I've mentioned, we arrived home just in time before we had some sleety snow showers.  I spotted a few crocuses in one of the flower pots and it won't be long before the daffodils are in bloom.