Sunday 27 April 2014

Bluebell Woods.....

A quiet stroll two minutes from home took us

 to

Winstanley Hall

Built in 1560 is one of only three Tudor houses in the 
Wigan borough


Winstanley Hall 2006.jpg

 In the grounds are the most perfect 
bluebell woods.
Sadly, the hall isn't accessible to the public but the bluebells
can be seen by poking your camera lens over the gap in the stone wall.
















Hyacinthoides non-scripta is the common bluebell which is frequently found in ancient woodland. It is a protected species in the UK and is classified as one of our favourite flowers.






I didn't trespass and no bluebells were damaged in taking these shots.

*~*~*

Saturday 19 April 2014

Away with the fairies...








Fairy Glen in Appley Bridge, West Lancashire is designated as a Biological Heritage Site for its ancient woodland of oak, birch, ash and alder, the woodland floor may be covered with bluebells, wild garlic, marsh marigolds, ferns, and red campion.




Birch



Marsh Marigold




Ferns , Celandines and Bluebells




Sprodley Brook





The waters of Sprodley Brook have, over time, cut down through the underlying sandstone to create the steep Fairy Glen valley, which has spectacular waterfalls and cliff faces.





Sandstone Cliff





Spectacular waterfalls





A carpet of bluebells






Tree patterns in the Spring sunshine






The scent of bluebells and wild garlic conjure up an ancient place of magic and mystery.










And there is always the possibility of a fairy passing by....




"And as the seasons come and go, here's something you might like to know. There are fairies everywhere: under bushes, in the air, playing games just like you play, singing through their busy day. So listen, touch, and look around - in the air and on the ground. And if you watch all nature's things, you might just see a fairy's wing."


 ~Author Unknown ~


*~*~*




Wednesday 16 April 2014

Scarisbrick Marina, Lancashire....

This bustling community of riverboats and barges
 is nestled next to the Leeds - Liverpool canal at Scarisbrick, Lancashire.


Lazy B

Potty Harry

The Bees Knees

Peace and Quiet