It’s spring at Cound

It certainly feels like it – pleasantly warm in the sunshine (hat and gloves in pocket, jacket unfastened…), and with practically no wind, it’s very enjoyable wandering around these lanes. (Later, the sun hides behind the clouds, and it’s not quite so warm. It comes out again as soon as I’m in the car, driving home)

View OS map on Streetmap http://www.streetmap.co.uk/map.srf?X=356010&Y=304045&A=Y&Z=120

Carlisle and the S&C

Wednesday 28 February: a trip that was planned back in January. Northern Rail’s great ticket sale meant we could get from Carlisle to Crewe, via the Settle and Carlisle to Leeds, and along the Calder Valley line to Manchester, for just £3.50 each! On that basis, we can afford some luxury – first class seats from Crewe to Penrith, also for a bargain price – with breakfast thrown in. We’ll have the scrambled eggs with smoked salmon, please. And coffee – and orange juice… Just the job!
Travelling most of the day meant few opportunities for photos, except at Carlisle where we had a little while to wait before we could board our Leeds train. But what a great day out we’ve had!

Below the Edge

The start, near Church Preen school, is well below the Wenlock Edge. At the highest point of my wander, a little way beyond Church Preen village, I’m almost at the same height, and can see the Clee hills beyond – nevertheless the Edge dominates the eastern horizon. Looking west now, there are fine views towards the Welsh border, though the distance is rather hazy. To the north, the Wrekin’s in charge. This is very pleasant quiet country.

View OS map on Streetmap http://www.streetmap.co.uk/map.srf?X=354860&Y=298485&A=Y&Z=120