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.



Saturday 14th December
This afternoon we visited Fountains Abbey to hear the choir of St John the Baptist Church in Knaresborough. They performed Christmas songs for an hour and it was exceptionally good.



Friday 13th December
This evening we went to Harlow Carr to enjoy the gardens illuminated for Christmas. There were not many people there and it was quite magical to wander round in the dark.



Thursday 31st October
Quarry Moor Nature Reserve is just off the roundabout where Harrogate Road joins the Ripon Bypass. It was a lucky find as we were checking the venue for a table tennis match next week. The reserve was given to the people of Ripon in 1945. The paths are excellent and it is well laid out with woodland and a lake on the boundaries of grassland.

Folds in the rocks are impressive at the old quarry.

Thursday 17th October

Autumn colours are starting to appear a Temple Newsam. The big tree covered with masses of berries was stunning in the sunshine.

Wednesday 2nd October
Blue skies and sunshine here after days of heavy rain. We spent the afternoon at Harlow Carr where 70 sculptures are displayed around the garden to celebrate 70 years since its creation. The autumn colours in the borders were rich and beautiful.