Out of hibernation.

Today was like the first day of Spring,( not to last, unfortunately) so we weren't the only folk to enjoy the canal. We are looking forward to checking out the rest of the canal when Spring really arrives.

Young lads walking their dogs during half-term.

A lone fisherman. 

Any signs of dinner yet?

The heron appears to be deliberating over his options. Small-fry coming over the waterfall or a huge sea trout negotiating the fish pass? Friends have seen him catch a sea trout. Today was not a lucky day (at least, not while we were there). He hung around on the top step for a while, then off he flew. Perhaps the still waters of the lodge are more of a fast-food restaurant.

Mini-Niagara

We enjoy walking up to the Yarrow waterfall,which always seems to us like a mini Niagara Falls. Before the fish pass was built, there was a narrow fall of water in that spot which reminded us of the American Falls. 

After a few days of heavy rain, a great view and wonderful sound greet us as we walk round this bend.  

Local can be brilliant!

Not much escaping at this time of year....too cold or wet; dark too early; winter fireside syndrome.
A five-minute drive to Yarrow Valley Country Park provides all the walking and fresh air that we need.

A feeding frenzy going on here amongst the swans, the mallards and the black-headed gulls!





The local swans had five cygnets this year, and they could be leaving soon now they are fully grown. The sixth cygnet must be an interloper!

Things to cheer us along our way

We enjoy being out in the fresh air,communing with nature,taking life's little joys to heart. These were the simple pleasures of one afternoon.

As usual, I have to stop and stroke every dog we meet (except the ones which frighten me!!!) These three were delightful and came bounding up to greet us. The owners were quite pleasant too!

We didn't disturb this lone fisherman. Sometimes they glare at us if we make any noise or even say a quiet hello. I guess it frightens the fish away! Anyway, it's nice to watch them fishing especially on the rare occasions that they catch anything.

.  These bright berries caught my eye. I wonder how long they will stay there once the cold weather sets in?

Canal Update

Life has been a bit hectic lately, so there's been no time to update this blog. Now I need to look through my photos and catch up!

We haven't managed even to begin our walk along the full length of the Leeds/Liverpool Canal. The 'other half' suffers badly in cold weather so we've delayed that particular adventure until Spring.

Meanwhile, back in Chorley, this is 'our' bit of the canal, walked most days.These two pictures were taken in early November as the leaves were beginning to turn.

It's dark in 'ere!!!

Loughrigg Cave--sometimes known as Rydal Cave--from inside looking out.

Looking across at interesting and beautiful geological formations.