Monday 20th January
Leyburn was chosen as our destination today. The walk from the town along the ridge up the valley offers variety and superb views. It is called 'The Shawl' and linked to a tale of Mary, Queen of Scots walking here and dropping a shawl. She may well have walked here as she was imprisoned nearby. The views are lovely both up and down the valley.

Sunday 19th January
We didn't expect Scarborough to be crowded in the middle of January but the blue skies tempted everyone to enjoy the seaside. Just after high tide we enjoyed watching the waves in North Bay as we walked up to the castle.

This was once a very important place and the land it guards offers extensive views in all directions.

The walls of the castle can be seen at the top of the peninsula sheltering the town and South Bay.

The town and South Bay as seen from one of the towers in the castle walls.

Saturday 18th January
The forecast today was for sunshine so we went to Golden Acre park. From the bird hide we could see lots of different species.

A blue tit on the feeding post

A mandarin duck on the small pond

A nuthatch on the  feeding table

We walked to the second bird hide but there was not much to see apart from the lovely lake and the resident ducks.



Sunday 12th. January

It was very busy at Sutton Bank this afternoon. After the clouds passed over the views were lovely.

 



Saturday 11th. January

We set out for a visit to Clapham but once we got there it was raining so we returned via Fewston and enjoyed a dry walk along the edge of the reservoir.

 



Wednesday 8th. January

An unexpected free day and the promise of fine weather made us decide on a trip to Whitby. We parked at the quayside and walked to the end of the pier.

 

We crossed the swing bridge and climbed to the top of the 199 steps.

Whitby Abbey looked stunning as the low sunlight was just catching the stonework.



Wednesday 1st January
We spent the afternoon and early evening at the Christmas Adventure in Stockeld Park. After dusk we walked round the lake enjoying the Christmas lights.