Bridge to Bridge: The Calder & Hebble from Mearclough and Copley

During a pleasant walk along the Calder & Hebble Navigation on May 7th, 2017, the following images were taken, capturing the serene natural beauty accessible just moments from a busy West Yorkshire town, a testament to the canal's unique charm

The first image, looking down the Calder & Hebble Navigation from Mearclough Bridge, it's hard to imagine the industrial heart that once pulsed here. This photograph, taken on May 7th, 2017, showcases a scene of pastoral tranquility, a world transformed from its working past. Where once the towering Canal Mills dominated the landscape, now nature reigns, softening the edges and creating a haven of green. The still waters reflect the verdant foliage, a stark contrast to the smoke and clamour that would have filled the air just decades ago. This image is a testament to the resilience of nature and the quiet beauty that has reclaimed this historic waterway.

Our journey continues along the towpath, where the tranquil ribbon of the canal is bordered by the vibrant green trees banking the expanse of Copley's playing fields. This next quartet of images captures a slice of time along this stretch, a place where the echoes of playful shouts and the quiet lapping of water create a unique harmony. Dominating the scene, and a silent sentinel of this landscape, is the venerable footbridge. For over a century and a half, its sturdy frame has spanned the canal, a testament to Victorian engineering and enduring craftsmanship. Imagine the countless journeys it has witnessed: the clatter of clogs on its wooden planks, the hushed whispers of lovers pausing to gaze at the still water, the steady passage of working boats laden with goods. Each rusted rivet and weathered beam holds a story, a whisper of the past. The bridge, more than just a crossing, is a living artifact, a stoic guardian watching over the canal's ever-flowing narrative. The play of light and shadow across its aged structure, the way it frames the landscape, and the subtle textures of its timeworn surfaces all contribute to a visual tapestry that speaks volumes about the passage of time and the enduring presence of history in our everyday surroundings.

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Lumb Falls, Crimsworth Dean

Discover the serene beauty of Lumb Falls

Nestled in the picturesque Crimsworth Dean, Lumb Falls is a hidden gem that offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This stunning waterfall, with its cascading waters and lush green surroundings, is a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Why Visit Lumb Falls?

• Natural Beauty: The falls are surrounded by breathtaking scenery, including towering trees, vibrant foliage, and crystal-clear streams.
• Peaceful Atmosphere: The serene ambiance of the area makes it the perfect place to relax and unwind.
• Photo Opportunities: The picturesque setting provides endless opportunities for capturing stunning photos.

Tips for Your Visit:

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer are ideal times to visit, when the water flow is at its peak.
• Wear Appropriate Footwear: The path to the falls can be slippery, so it's important to wear sturdy footwear.
• Respect the Environment: Please leave no trace and avoid disturbing the natural habitat.
• Bring a Camera: Capture the beauty of the falls and the surrounding area.

How to Get There:

Lumb Falls is located in Crimsworth Dean, a short drive from the town of Hebden Bridge. There is ample parking available near the trailhead as Crimsworth Dean is found in the same National Trust managed woodland as Hardcastle Crags. The walk to the falls is relatively short and easy, approx. 1.7 miles from Midgehole, making it suitable for families with children although people with limited walking abilities may struggle.

So, if you're looking for a peaceful escape into nature, be sure to add Lumb Falls to your list of must-visit destinations.

The pictures below were taken in September 2016 with a Nikon d3300, selected ones can be seen on my Clickasnap profile, with all the others available on various products at my Colin Green Photography Zazzle Store. Clicking any image should open a link in another window to my store.

My pictures displayed here are in a reduced resolution of 900 x 600 x 150, the ones available on Zazzle are at least 6000 x 4000 x 300 and un-watermarked. All the images remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Please take a moment to check out my other Zazzle stores via the links below. All the images displayed there can be transferred to numerous products of your own choosing and edited to your speck using Zazzle's editing tools. These are in addition to the products choices I am currently offering. I also offer various wall art for sale on Photo4Me.

Nature's Masterpiece: Hardcastle Crags Set 2

Nestled in the heart of West Yorkshire, near the charming town of Hebden Bridge, lies a hidden gem: Hardcastle Crags. This enchanting wooded valley, also known as Hebden Dale, is a haven for nature lovers, hikers, and families seeking a breath of fresh air. Owned and managed by the National Trust, Hardcastle Crags offers a tranquil escape into a world of lush greenery, tumbling streams, and fascinating history.

From the moment you step into the valley, you'll be captivated by its beauty. The towering trees create a verdant canopy overhead, dappling the sunlight that filters through to the forest floor. The air is filled with the soothing sounds of the Hebden Water as it rushes and tumbles along the valley bottom, carving its way through the landscape.

Hardcastle Crags is a place for exploration. Whether you're looking for a challenging hike or a gentle stroll, there are paths to suit every ability. The network of trails winds through the valley, offering stunning views of the crags themselves – dramatic rock formations that jut out from the hillside, showcasing the power of nature. Keep an eye out for the diverse flora and fauna that call this valley home; from vibrant wildflowers to the elusive kingfisher, there's always something to discover.

A highlight of any visit to Hardcastle Crags is Gibson Mill. This fascinating 19th-century mill, now a visitor centre, offers a glimpse into the area's industrial past. Learn about the mill's history and the lives of the people who worked there, and perhaps even enjoy a refreshing cup of tea in the cafe. The mill is a perfect spot to take a break during your explorations and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.

The beauty and importance of Hardcastle Crags haven't gone unnoticed over the years. It's a testament to the power of community that this precious landscape has been protected from development. The valley has been the subject of reservoir proposals on several occasions, but thanks to the tireless efforts of local residents and conservationists, these plans have been successfully fought off, preserving this natural wonderland for generations to come.

Hardcastle Crags is more than just a pretty place; it's a vital part of the local ecosystem and a cherished space for the community. It's a place to connect with nature, to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life, and to appreciate the simple beauty of the natural world.

Planning your visit:

• Location: Near Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire
• Managed by: National Trust
• Highlights: Woodland walks, Hebden Water, Gibson Mill, stunning crags
• Perfect for: Hiking, family days out, nature lovers
• Don't forget: Your walking boots!

So, whether you're a seasoned hiker or simply looking for a peaceful escape, make sure to add Hardcastle Crags to your list. You won't be disappointed by the magic that awaits you in this beautiful corner of West Yorkshire.

Taken on September 10th, 2016 with a Nikon d3300 SLR camera. The picture i took have been split into 3 sets, this is set 2. Clicking any image below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Widdop Road Bridge.

Gibson Mill

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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.

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Borders Sunrise and the Statue of J.B Priestley, Bradford.

Borders sunrise was a picture I took whilst at waiting at a farm near Kelso in October 2018. The sky was coloured with purples and reds and the farm featured a small lake that the sky reflected off. Sadly all I had with me was my LG phone but I think he picture turned out OK. It was taken on the 24 October 2018.

The next picture was taken in November 2013 using a Samsung Galaxy Tablet. It shows that statue of J.B. Priestley which stands outside the National Media Museum, Bradford. John Boynton Priestley was born on the 13 September 1894 in the Manningham district of Bradford. He was a novelist, playwright, screenwriter, broadcaster and social commentator, who's Yorkshire background was reflected in much of his work. He served with the Duke of Wellington's Regiment during Word War 1, being badly injured in June 1916. Despite writing before the war his first major success cam at the end of the 1920's with the novel The Good Companions. Priestley died of pneumonia on the 14 August 1984, his ashes being buried at Hubberholme Churchyard, Wharfedale. The exact location of his ashes have never been made public, only a very small number of people attending their burial. A Plaque at the church says they are buried nearby.

The statue made of Bronze, shows Priestley with his coat flapping in a Bradford Breeze. It was unveiled by his third wife Jacquette Hawkes on the 31 October 1986. The sculptor was Ian Judd.

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Warley Autumn

 Another single shot picture taken whilst walking in Warley, Near Halifax, West Yorkshire. I am currently going through a number of pictures I have on my iPhone and this was one I thought worth sharing. The colours and lack of leaves on the trees gave the impression to me of autumn ending and winters approach nearing.

You can see a full resolution and un-watermarked version of this picture on my Clickasnap account, click the picture to view in another window.

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All the pictures are the copyright of Colin Green.

Frosty Sunrise

 A single picture this time taken on my phone. I was driving through the village of Wing near Leighton Buzzard, Buckinghamshire and whilst sat waiting in the traffic I was taken with the sun rising over the frost covered field I was alongside. I grabbed the phone and the picture below was the result which is one of my favourites,

It was taken on the 6th February 2020 using my iPhone.

The picture can also be seen full resolution and un-watermarked on my Clickasnap account, click the image to view.

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Tracing the Ghost Tracks: A Walk Along the Rishworth Branch Line

The Ryburn Valley, a picturesque slice of West Yorkshire, holds secrets whispered on the winter wind. On a crisp January day in 2016, armed with my Nikon D3300, I set out to explore a fragment of its forgotten past: the Rishworth Branch Line. This railway, a vital artery in its time, once snaked its way up the valley from Sowerby Bridge, connecting Watson's Mill Crossing, Triangle, and Ripponden before reaching its final destination in Rishworth.

Though the last train rattled along these tracks in the 1950s, the remnants of this once-bustling line remain, etched into the landscape. My journey, a roughly half-mile trek, took me from the echoes of Watson's Mill to the quiet village of Triangle. And what a journey it was!

The air was sharp and cold, the ground firm underfoot, as I followed the ghostly path of the former trackbed. The silence was profound, broken only by the occasional rustle of winter-bare trees and the distant murmur of the Ryburn River. It was easy to imagine the steam engines, their rhythmic chugging echoing through the valley, the shouts of passengers and the clatter of cargo.

What struck me most were the bridges. These sturdy stone structures, silent witnesses to a bygone era, still spanned the former trackbed, their arches framing snippets of the valley's beauty. They stood as testaments to the engineering prowess of the past, their weathered stones bearing the marks of time and the elements.

The photographs I captured on that day, the 30th of January 2016, tell a story of quiet resilience. The stark beauty of the winter landscape, the skeletal trees against the pale sky, the weathered stones of the bridges – all combined to create a sense of timelessness.

Walking along the Rishworth Branch Line was like stepping into a historical photograph. It was a journey through time, a glimpse into a world where steam engines ruled the rails and communities were connected by the iron horse.

It's a reminder that even when progress moves forward, the echoes of the past remain, woven into the fabric of the landscape. The Rishworth Branch Line, though silent, continues to tell its story, a story of connection, community, and the enduring beauty of the Ryburn Valley. If you ever find yourself in the area, take a walk along these ghost tracks. You might just hear the whispers of history on the winter wind.

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Chasing the Golden Hour: My Scammonden Sunset Experiment

Sometimes, the most beautiful moments are fleeting. A perfect sunset, a burst of vibrant colour, a gentle transition from day to night. Capturing that magic is a challenge, but one I decided to take on back in August 2018.

On Saturday, August 4th, I found myself perched near the serene Scammonden Reservoir, nestled in the heart of the Ryburn Valley. The air was alive with a restless wind, a constant reminder of nature's untamed energy. My mission? To track the setting sun as it dipped behind the distant hills, painting the valley in hues of orange and gold.

"Scammonden Sunset" is the result of that evening's endeavour. I set up my tripod, pointed my camera, and let the sun dictate the scene. For a full 20 minutes, I patiently recorded the slow, mesmerizing descent. The wind, however, had other plans. It buffeted my tripod, causing a few wobbles that, while a tad frustrating at the time, now add a touch of raw authenticity to the final product.

The real magic happened in the editing room. I compressed those 20 minutes of real-time sunset into a mere 37 seconds, transforming the gradual shift into a breathtaking, accelerated spectacle. The result is a short, punchy video that captures the essence of the sunset's beauty in a blink.

To enhance the experience, I added a musical score, carefully chosen to complement the visual journey. The music, I believe, adds an emotional layer, amplifying the sense of awe and tranquility that the sunset evokes.

This was my first attempt at filming a sunset in this way, and while it wasn't without its challenges (thanks, wind!), I'm quite pleased with the outcome. It's a reminder of the simple beauty that surrounds us, and the power of time-lapse to condense those moments into something truly captivating.

Sometimes, imperfections add character. Those little tripod wobbles, the gusts of wind – they’re part of the story, a testament to the real, unfiltered experience of capturing nature's fleeting beauty.

If you've ever found yourself mesmerized by a sunset, I hope "Scammonden Sunset" resonates with you. It's a small window into a moment in time, a reminder to pause and appreciate the natural wonders that surround us.

Perhaps this inspires you to capture your own sunset, or simply to take a moment to appreciate the next one you witness. After all, every sunset is a unique masterpiece, painted across the canvas of the sky.

The video was filmed using a Nikon d3300 SLR camera.

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A Winter's Whisper: Copley Riverside in a Blanket of Snow

The River Calder, a lifeline through West Yorkshire, paints a different picture with each passing season. But there's a particular magic in its winter guise, a serene beauty that I was fortunate enough to capture on a crisp December day.

On December 29th, 2017, I embarked on a walk along the path that hugs the River Calder near Copley, a charming village nestled in the heart of the region. The day was draped in a fresh layer of snow, the first of the season, if my memory serves me correctly, transforming the familiar landscape into a winter wonderland.

These seven photographs, taken along the riverbank near Copley Cricket Ground, stretching towards the newly opened Wilson Bridge, tell a story of quiet beauty. They offer a glimpse into a world where the river's gentle flow meets the stillness of a snow-covered landscape.

A Winter's Tale in Seven Frames:

• The Silent River: The Calder, usually a bustling waterway, flowed with a hushed tranquillity, its surface reflecting the soft, grey sky.
• Snow-Dusted Trees: The bare branches of the riverside trees were delicately outlined in white, creating intricate patterns against the winter backdrop.
• The Path Less Travelled: The walking path, usually well-trodden, bore only the faint imprints of my own footsteps, a testament to the quiet solitude of the day.
• Copley Cricket Ground's Winter Rest: The familiar green of the cricket ground was transformed into a pristine expanse of white, a silent witness to the winter's arrival.
• Wilson Bridge's Debut: The newly constructed Wilson Bridge, replacing the older stone structure, stood as a modern counterpoint to the timeless beauty of the surrounding landscape. The bridge itself was a stark contrast to the natural beauty around it.
• A Landscape Refreshed: The snow had softened the edges of the landscape, creating a sense of peace and tranquillity.
• Winter's Light: The soft, diffused light of the winter day bathed the scene in a gentle glow, highlighting the subtle textures of the snow and the river.

The Magic of a Snowy Walk:

There's something uniquely captivating about a winter walk along a riverside. The crisp air, the crunch of snow underfoot, and the quiet beauty of the landscape create a sense of peace and tranquillity. This walk along the Copley Riverside, captured in these seven photographs, was a reminder of the simple beauty that can be found in the heart of winter.

The recent construction of Wilson Bridge, although a needed improvement, does not distract from the natural beauty of the area. It is a testament to the progression of the town, while the river itself remains a constant.

These pictures are a snapshot of a moment in time, a winter's whisper along the River Calder. They serve as a reminder of the beauty that can be found in even the simplest of landscapes, especially when touched by the magic of snow.

Clicking any of the images 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.