A Winter Walk. . .

There is something so magical about winter light even though the days are short and chilly.  This is the view around 11am above Grange-Over-Sands, overlooking Morecombe Bay,  where we began our walk last Sunday.  Though the weather forecast had promised blue skies and sunshine, it ended up fairly gray all day.  The only weak sunlight getting through seemed to stay over the water but it gave it such a wonderfully silver lustre.

Turn away from the water towards the Lake District and you can see how misty it was.

About three miles away from Grange-over-Sands is the tiny village of Cartmel, where our group did a similar walk over a year ago in very different weather.  We headed down the hill towards the village. . .

. . . passing the most amazing front yard with its own maze . . .

. . . and Cartmel Priory, built in the 12th century. . .

. . . and L'Enclume, one of the most expensive and acclaimed restaurants in the U.K. . . .

. . . and then through the medieval arch (as you do) . . .

. . . to emerge on the other side of the village and a climb up to How Barrow for more great views of Morecombe Bay. . .

. . . and the railway bridge over the River Leven to the west.

Our walk continued over tufty ridges. . .

. . .and through mysterious woods.  I wish my camera was better at picking up subtle colours; this photo looks bleached out, but with the late afternoon sunlight, the wood was full of beautiful shadows.

We then visited one of my favourite places - the summit of Hampsfell where the views are stunning. I love all the patterns created by the tides and sands.

It's a windswept and lonely place but the stark winter trees against the clouds and limestone are endlessly fascinating to me.

This is Hampsfell Hospice built in 1846 to shelter travellers.  You can climb its steep stone steps for great 360 degree views.

Or take shelter within and read the witty warnings.

By now the light was waning so it was time to turn our backs to the water and head back to Grange-Over-Sands, enjoying how the sun's dying rays lit up the surrounding hills. . .

. . . and gaze on the higher peaks in the distant, just popping up above the mist.

The final stretch was a lovely wooded path down through Eggerslack Wood.  Twelve miles and a proper country tramp to shake off the Christmas sluggishness and get the legs moving again.