SkyBlueSophie

Souter Lighthouse

Standing high above the coastline at Marsden, Souter Lighthouse is an impressive sight even before you step inside.

Built in 1871, the lighthouse guided ships along this stretch of the North East coast for more than a century, remaining in use until 1988. Today, the lighthouse and surrounding buildings offer a glimpse into what life was like for the people who lived and worked here.

In the engine room, you can see the generators that powered the lighthouse's foghorn. Souter was the first lighthouse in the world to be designed and built to use electricity, making the machinery just as interesting as the lighthouse itself. A miniature model showing the lighthouse, coastline and keepers' cottages also helps to bring the history of the site to life.

One of the highlights of our visit was being able to climb to the very top of the lighthouse. The winding staircase eventually gives way to a steeper section that feels more like a ladder, but the climb was worth it. From the top, there were wonderful views stretching along the coastline, including Whitburn Beach and, in the distance, St Mary's Lighthouse. Even better, I was able to spin the light at the top of the lighthouse.

The lighthouse keepers' living quarters provide another glimpse into the past. We were able to look inside several of the rooms, including the bedrooms and living areas, where details such as an old fireplace and a newspaper dating from 1873 offered little reminders of the people who once called this place home.

A Day in Helmsley

Helmsley is a North Yorkshire town that I always enjoy wandering around with a camera. The town is home to Helmsley Castle, which has stood overlooking the surrounding countryside for centuries. I enjoyed photographing the old stone walls and the views from the castle grounds.

There are plenty of little details to notice around the town too, from the old buildings to the gardens and surrounding countryside. The Cleveland Way also starts in Helmsley. We didn't have time to explore everything during this visit, so the walled garden will have to wait for another day.

Spring at Beningbrough Hall 
On this visit to Beningbrough Hall, I decided to become a National Trust member, a decision I'm sure will lead to many days spent discovering some of the country's most beautiful places. 
Built in the early eighteenth century, Beningbrough Hall is a large Georgian mansion which sits within parkland beside the River Ouse. Many National Trust properties are closed or partially closed during the winter months and, although I wasn't able to explore the house itself on this occasion, it gave me the perfect excuse to spend more time wandering through the gardens and surrounding grounds.

Drifts of snowdrops brightened the woodland edges, while vibrant purple crocuses added splashes of colour after the winter months.

A Return to Knaresborough
When I last visited Knaresborough, the town was covered by an autumn mist. It created a wonderful atmospheric scene, but the view across the River Nidd remained hidden for most of the day.
This visit couldn't have been more different. A crisp day had brought clear skies and bright sunshine, allowing the historic castle and viaduct to stand out against the landscape. As I waited with my camera, a train crossed the viaduct, creating one of my favourite photographs from the day.
Not long afterwards, an unexpected visitor appeared. A friendly cat wandered into view and decided he wanted to be included in my photos.

Standing above the River Nidd, Knaresborough Castle has watched over the town for more than nine centuries. Below, the iconic viaduct has become one of the town's most recognisable landmarks.

Whorlton Castle

Whorlton Castle sits among the countryside near Swainby, with the surrounding hills making a beautiful backdrop to the old ruins.

When I visited, the castle could still be explored inside. Outside, a group of sheep had gathered around a heap of hay, completely uninterested in the castle and far more concerned with their dinner.

Winter at the Wainstones

I headed up to the Wainstones on a cold, clear winter day, with my camera ready to capture the views across the North York Moors.

The walk up was quite steep in places, but otherwise an easy one, and the views at the top made the climb worthwhile. The Wainstones stood out against the winter landscape, with the countryside stretching out below them.

I really enjoy photographing the moors in winter. Everywhere is quieter, and on a clear day you can see for miles.