Allan Park Art.

 Recently updating a set of images I posted in November 2016 of Allan Park, I found a set of 3 artworks I created of the park featuring the bowling green, a set of steps inside the park and a flower in bloom.

Allan Park is a public gardens and playground set in a woodland clinging to the Norland hillside. The park was once the grounds of Allan House which was purchased by the local council in 1922 and converted in to a public park. The park is something of a hidden gem being within a couple of minutes of the town centre and railway station, but never seemingly busy possibly due to its location on the other side of town from the major population centres. The park features a number of woodland walks, a playground and bowling green but no toilet or refreshment facilities, another reason it's probably quieter than most public park in Calderdale. Another feature of the park is the top of the Scar Head Tunnel entrance can be found by following one of the paths. The tunnel being part of the now closed Rishworth Branch Railway Line along the Ryburn Valley Bottom. Click here to see my November 2016 post featuring 11 pictures taken around the park.

The 3 artworks below are based on some featured in that set of photo's. They can be seen below or full size, resolution and un-watermarked only on Clickasnap.

Thanks for looking and please take a moment to share, all the images remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Exploring Allan Park, Sowerby Bridge

Nestled on the slopes of the Norland hillside, a stone's throw from Sowerby Bridge Railway Station, lies Allan Park. It's a charming public space, a green oasis carved into the landscape, and a place where history whispers from every level. But this isn't just your average park; it's a story etched in terraces, bowling greens, and the silent passage of forgotten railways.

My visit, captured on a crisp March 18th, 2018, with my trusty Nikon D3300, revealed a park of surprising depth. What strikes you first is the tiered nature of the landscape. Allan Park isn't a flat expanse; it's a series of levels, a testament to the effort it took to tame the hillside. This unique topography lends the park a sense of intimacy and discovery as you wander from one section to the next.

The story behind Allan Park is as intriguing as its layout. It was once the grounds of Allan House, a grand residence purchased by the council in 1922. The original vision was ambitious: a public swimming pool. Imagine the bustling sounds of swimmers echoing through the valley! However, those plans never materialized. Instead, Allan House found a new purpose, transforming into a clinic, serving the community in a different way.

And the grounds? They were reborn as a public park, a space for recreation and relaxation. A bowling green, a playground filled with the laughter of children, and tranquil woodland walking areas emerged, creating a diverse space for all to enjoy. It's a testament to how a space can evolve, adapting to the changing needs of a community.

But perhaps the most fascinating secret lies beneath our feet. Underneath the serene park grounds, the Scar Head Tunnel quietly exists, a relic of the Rishworth Branch Railway Line. Imagine the rumble of steam trains echoing through the hillside, a stark contrast to the peaceful atmosphere of the park today. It's a hidden layer of history, a reminder of the industrial past that shaped this region.

Walking through Allan Park, you can't help but feel a connection to the past. The echoes of Allan House, the dreams of a swimming pool, the forgotten railway line – they all contribute to the park's unique character. It's a place where history and nature intertwine, offering a moment of tranquility amidst the everyday.

The photos I took on that March day capture a snapshot of this hidden gem. The subtle textures of the stonework, the vibrant green of the bowling green, the quiet beauty of the woodland paths – all speak to the park's unassuming charm.

If you find yourself near Sowerby Bridge, take a moment to explore Allan Park. It's more than just a park; it's a journey through time, a glimpse into the past, and a peaceful escape into nature. You might just discover a hidden history of your own.

Clicking any of the pictures below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Thanks for looking, please take a moment to share and follow me on social media, and check out my portfolio's on Photo4Me and Clickasnap via the links below.

All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Allan Park, Sowerby Bridge A Photographic Journey Through a Tranquil Setting.

 Allan Park is a hidden gem nestled near the heart of Sowerby Bridge. With its lush greenery, winding paths, and captivating views, it's no wonder this park has become a favourite amongst locals and photographers alike. Today, I'm taking you on a visual journey through Allan Park, sharing some of its hidden corners and capturing its unique blend of tranquility and history.

The moment you enter Allan Park, you're greeted by a canopy of towering trees, their leaves filtering the sunlight into a dappled mosaic. The air is filled with the sweet scent of blooming wildflowers and the gentle chirping of birds. As you wander along the paths, sunlight peeks through the leaves, illuminating patches of vibrant green moss blanketing the ground. It's a scene straight out of a fairytale, offering a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Allan Park's history is woven into its very fabric. The Rishworth Branch Line Scar Head Tunnel, running directly beneath the park, adds a touch of industrial intrigue. The weathered stone bridge, a testament to the area's rich heritage, stands proudly against the backdrop of lush greenery. Capturing these historical elements alongside the park's natural beauty creates a visual dialogue between past and present, reminding us of the stories these spaces hold.

For photographers, Allan Park is a treasure trove of opportunities. From the delicate details of a spiderweb glistening with morning dew to the majestic silhouette of a tree against the setting sun, there's beauty to be found in every corner. Don't miss capturing the playful antics of squirrels scampering amongst the trees or the vibrant hues of wildflowers blooming in the meadows.

Whether you're seeking a peaceful escape, a spot for creative inspiration, or simply a chance to connect with nature, Allan Park has something to offer everyone. So, grab your camera, lace up your walking shoes, and embark on your own photographic adventure through this charming Sowerby Bridge

 haven.

These pictures were taken in May 2016 using a Nikon D3300 DSLR camera. Clicking any image below shouls open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

The tunnel portal is the entrance to Scar Head Tunnel. The tunnel runs for 542m underneath
Allan Park and was closed to railway traffic in 1958. Both sides of the tunnel are
partially blocked by industrial developments. This is the Sowerby Bridge
Station side.

 

Thanks for looking, and please take a moment to share and follow me on social media, and check out my portfolio on Photo4Me via the links below.

 

All links open in another window.

All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.