Are you thinking ahead about where to visit during your stay here in North Yorkshire?
Harlow Carr Gardens in Harrogate is a super place and something with broad appeal across the generations.
On a recent visit this September, we enjoyed admiring the sculpture displays that have been added this year.
Summer hay meadows, did you say? But it's December. Quite.
But I like to think back to six month's ago in June and midsummer days because even on the greyest of days, it cheers me up. I remember that sure enough spring appears leading in to those long summer days that I so cherish.
Sometimes wintery weather does nothing to entice us outside to stretch our legs, and yet at other times it has the greatest appeal. I must admit, I love a good day hike in winter - provided I have all the right clothing and layers on, and am wrapped up to the elements. When crisp, winter days arrive with a morning ground frost and clear sky, the clarity of vision is superb - especially when the leaves from deciduous trees have long since fallen. Hiking in the Yorkshire Dales is a year-round activity for sure, you just need to be prepared.
This scene captures the essence of winter walking in the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
Changing seasons offer a sense of delight in the natural world. As the end of summer approaches and the very beginning of autumn arrives, I am reminded of a wonderfully atmospheric walk I took one morning from Newton Grange a few years ago in the first week of October.
Today, the 21st June, is Midsummer’s Day when we recognise the Summer Solstice and the longest day of daylight in the northern hemisphere.
For me, Midsummer’s Day has often been a day that has been long awaited in the middle of winter when I crave daylight – and sunshine – more than ever. Now today we have daylight in abundance – the longest period of time between sunrise and sunset. I am thankful.
And the silk inside a chestnut shell
Jetplanes in the air to be refuelled
All these things I love so well
So I mustn't forget
No, I mustn't forget
To say a great big
Thank You
I mustn't forget...
What a delight to see the lambs out enjoying the sunshine today in the fields. I thought you'd like to see a few photographs of the new arrivals here at Newton Grange.
