Enjoying retirement
In The Red Rose County
We took the chance of meeting Katherine and Aiisha at Preston station to go over to Blackpool to show Aiisha the Illuminations. We took the Lytham approach from the South which is always a nice way to come into Blackpool, passing Lytham's independent shops and restaurants and many fine houses. Our first destination was the new and prize-winning fish 'n chips outlet Papa's. Good but not quite as amazing as we expected. Whilst still daylight, what do you do in Blackpool (apart from the rides), you go to Amusement arcades. Great fun was had by all. The Illuminations were great too. Next day we all went to Skipton Castle (never yet visited). The gateway, facing town, is highly impressive, with its bold round towers and Clifford challenge - Hencefoorth! Spot the gunner. Ah, there she is. Skipton castle dates from 1090 but was massively strengthened by Robert, the first Clifford Lord of Skipton, around 1310. At the end of the run of inner buildings the watchtower with the clifford flag flying. Although a shell, virtually all of the castle is intact and roofed, and in a remarkable state of preservation. A lot of this is due to Lady Anne Clifford who was born in the castle in 1590 and who restored this and other Clifford castles after the Civil War. She was a redoubtable woman. Here we ascend Lady Anne's steps......... ........past the old drawbridge, and through a Norman arch to the characterful inner courtyard - the Conduit Court, with its splendid old yew tree planted by Lady Anne. Most of the stone stairs are incredibly well-worn and some of the detailing is worth seeking out...... The Banqueting Hall is impressive... ....and off the Hall is the medieval kitchen, not a separate building annd far off (as was often the case). The baking ovens are readily seen....... and off the kitchen is a garderobe, always fascinating for children. Everywhere the views are tremendous. Here is the raised walkway we shall be taking into the woods later on. The surrounding hills give an almost Scottish feel on a misty day.... Beyond the gateway the main market street in Skipton........the temporary prisoner Mary Queen of Scots may have felt nostalgic. The thickness of the walls was impressive. and each room had its own interest. Well worth the visit, but we needed more steps so off we went to explore Skipton Castle woods..... The willow sculptures on their hand forged steel frames keep remarkably intact.... The 'dens' are perhaps more temporary... Next, to Betty's Ilkley....after a trial of Ilkley's Play Area.... and Pooh-sticks on the Wharf... Ilkley's atmosphere still very Christmassy, and quite lovely. Our last day was local, in and around the castle and park...... .....with a bit of Scottish dancing thrown in..... and a timed test on the Maze... A lovely visit, full of interest.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Keith & Frances SmithArchives
August 2023
Categories |