Northumberland Snapper

Cragside - Family Home of Pioneering British Industrialist William Armstrong

Cragside is a grand 19th-century country house located in the picturesque village of Rothbury, Northumberland.

It was built in 1863 for industrialist and inventor Lord Armstrong, and is considered to be one of the most impressive examples of Victorian architecture in the country. The house is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is situated on a hillside overlooking the stunning Northumberland countryside. It was the first house in the world to be lit by hydroelectric power and was at the forefront of technological innovation during its time. The house is now owned by the National Trust and is open to the public, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the opulence and grandeur of the Victorian era.

One of the most striking features of Cragside is its extensive collection of pre-Raphaelite art, which includes works by renowned artists such as William Holman Hunt and Edward Burne-Jones. The house is also home to a fascinating collection of artifacts and inventions created by Lord Armstrong himself, showcasing his brilliance and ingenuity. Visitors can explore the many rooms of the house, including the stunning library, dining room, and drawing room, all of which are adorned with intricate woodwork, stained glass windows, and beautiful furnishings.

The gardens at Cragside are a sight to behold, with over 30 miles of footpaths winding through the woodland and around the lakes on the estate. Lord Armstrong was passionate about nature and spent years transforming the landscape into a diverse and picturesque garden, which includes a rock garden, a fernery, and a rhododendron maze. The gardens are also home to one of the largest collections of conifers in Europe, making it a must-visit destination for any nature lover.

In addition to the house and gardens, Cragside also offers a range of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. The estate has several hiking trails, including one that leads up to the top of the nearby Simonside Hills, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. There is also a children's play area, a café, and a gift shop on the estate, making it a perfect destination for a family day out.

Cragside has a rich history and has played a significant role in the development of technology and the arts in England. It is a testament to the vision and creativity of Lord Armstrong, and a visit to this magnificent house and its grounds is a journey through time. Whether you are interested in history, art, nature, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat in the countryside, Cragside has something to offer for everyone.

St Mary's Lighthouse - A Local Icon

St Mary's Lighthouse is a popular tourist destination located in Whitley Bay, North Tyneside.

This iconic Grade II listed lighthouse features prominently on local gifts and memorabilia (aff. link). It has been an important landmark in the area for over 120 years, providing a guiding light for ships navigating the treacherous waters of the North Sea. It is currently owned by North Tyneside Council, having been decommissioned by its previous owner, Trinity House, in 1984.

Built in 1898, St Mary's Lighthouse stands at an impressive 82 feet tall and is situated on a small rocky island, accessible only by a short causeway that is submerged during high tide. This unique feature adds to the allure of the lighthouse, creating a sense of mystery and adventure for visitors.

The lighthouse itself is painted white, with a distinctive lantern room at the top. When the light was operational it used to display a double-flashing white aspect every 20 seconds. In its early days, the lighthouse was manned by a team of dedicated keepers who would ensure that the light was always shining and the foghorn was ready to sound in case of any danger.

Today, the lighthouse is no longer in use for maritime navigation, but it still serves as a beloved symbol of the town and a popular attraction for visitors. The tower has been restored and is now open to the public, allowing visitors to climb the 137 steps to the top for breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline.

In addition to its historical significance and architectural beauty, St Mary's Lighthouse is also home to a small museum that showcases the rich history of the lighthouse and its keepers. Visitors can learn about the technology and techniques used to operate the light and the daily lives of the keepers and their families.

The lighthouse is also surrounded by a beautiful nature reserve, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful stroll or a picnic with stunning views. The reserve is home to a variety of seabirds and other wildlife, making it a haven for nature lovers. Grey seals (aff. link) are regularly seen basking on the rocks at the rear of the lighthouse.

St Mary's Lighthouse is not just a place to visit, it's an experience. The sight of the towering red and white tower against the backdrop of the North Sea is truly breathtaking. The sound of the crashing waves and the call of the seagulls create a tranquil atmosphere, making it easy to see why this lighthouse has captured the hearts of so many visitors over the years.

Whether you're interested in history, architecture, nature, or simply looking for a unique and memorable experience, St Mary's Lighthouse is a must-visit destination. It's a place that holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike, and continues to shine as a beacon of beauty and wonder on the coast of Whitley Bay.

A Quick Guide to Alnwick Castle

Alnwick Castle is an iconic medieval castle located in Northumberland, England.

It is one of the largest inhabited castles in Europe and has been home to the Percy family for over 700 years. The castle has a rich history dating back to the 11th century when it was originally built as a wooden fortification. Over the centuries, it has been expanded and renovated, resulting in its grand and imposing appearance that can be seen today.

One of the most notable features of Alnwick Castle is its stunning architecture. The castle boasts a mix of medieval and Gothic styles, with its imposing walls and towers, intricate carvings, and grand entrance gates. The interior of the castle is just as impressive, with lavish state rooms, a grand hall, and a magnificent library filled with rare books and manuscripts. It's no wonder that the castle has been featured in many films and TV shows, including the popular Harry Potter series.

Aside from its architectural beauty, Alnwick Castle also has a fascinating history. It has played a significant role in numerous historical events, including the Wars of the Roses and the English Civil War. The castle has also been a witness to many royal visits, with notable guests such as King Edward I and Queen Victoria gracing its halls.

The castle also has a rich collection of artwork, weapons, and artifacts that offer a glimpse into its past. One of the most impressive pieces is the Chippendale furniture in the Drawing Room, which is said to be some of the finest examples of 18th-century craftsmanship.

In addition to its historical and cultural significance, Alnwick Castle also offers a variety of activities and experiences for visitors. The castle grounds are home to stunning gardens, including the famous Poison Garden, which features a collection of deadly plants. Visitors can also take part in medieval themed activities, such as archery and falconry, or explore the castle's dungeons and see the old torture chamber.

The castle has also been at the forefront of conservation efforts, with a focus on preserving the natural environment and wildlife in the surrounding area. It is also a popular spot for birdwatching, with over 100 different species of birds spotted on the grounds.

In recent years, Alnwick Castle has become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world. It offers a unique blend of history, culture, and entertainment, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in castles, medieval life, or simply looking for a day of adventure. Whether you're exploring its grand halls, strolling through the gardens, or taking part in one of its many activities, Alnwick Castle is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

The Use of Neutral Density (ND) Filters in Photography

Neutral density (ND) filters are an essential tool in the arsenal of any serious photographer.

These filters are designed to reduce the amount of light entering the camera, without affecting the colors or contrast of the image. This may seem counterintuitive, as photographers typically strive to capture as much light as possible in their images. However, there are several scenarios where using a neutral density filter can greatly enhance the final photograph.

One of the primary reasons for using a neutral density filter is to achieve a longer exposure time. This can be particularly useful in landscape photography, where a longer exposure can create a sense of movement in the clouds or water, resulting in a more dynamic and visually captivating image. Without a neutral density filter, the camera would struggle to capture a longer exposure without overexposing the image. By reducing the amount of light entering the camera, the filter allows the photographer to use a slower shutter speed without compromising the overall exposure.

Another situation where neutral density filters are invaluable is when working with bright light sources, such as the sun. In these situations, the camera's sensor can easily become overwhelmed and produce a blown-out, overexposed image. By using a neutral density filter, the photographer can control the amount of light entering the camera, resulting in a more balanced exposure. This is particularly useful in landscape photography, where the sun may be in the frame and the photographer wants to capture the details in both the foreground and the sky.

Moreover, neutral density filters can also be used to achieve a shallow depth of field in bright lighting conditions. Typically, a wider aperture (smaller f-stop number) is needed to create a shallow depth of field, resulting in a brighter image. By using a neutral density filter, the photographer can use a wider aperture without overexposing the image, allowing for more creative control over the depth of field.

In addition to these technical benefits, neutral density filters also offer creative possibilities. By controlling the amount of light entering the camera, the photographer can experiment with longer exposure times, resulting in unique and artistic images. They can also be used to capture motion blur in a still photograph, creating a sense of movement and adding a dynamic element to the image.

Overall, neutral density filters are a versatile and essential tool for photographers looking to push the boundaries of their creativity and capture stunning images in a variety of lighting conditions. Whether it's creating a sense of movement, controlling exposure in bright light, or experimenting with creative techniques, neutral density filters are a must-have for any photographer looking to take their craft to the next level.

Buy neutral density filters at Amazon (aff. link).

Pathfinders Railtours - The Hadrian Hoovers Railtour

GB Railfreight locomotives 50049 "Defiance" and 50007 "Hercules" were on duty for Pathfinder Railtour's The Hadrian Hoovers railtour of the north of England.

These are the only two class 50 locomotives in GBRf's fleet and both are painted in the company's standard royal blue and gold livery.

After a very early start at Tame Bridge Parkway, the outward leg, train 1Z31, travelled via Derby, Chesterfield, York and then the Durham Coast and Tyne Valley Lines to Carlisle. The return leg, train 1Z33, travelled via the iconic Settle and Carlisle Line to Leeds, then on to Doncaster and Chesterfield before retracing its steps to Tame Bridge Parkway.

As I was on a Freedom of the North East Rover at the time, I was able to follow much of the railtour's progress across the north of England.

My video begins at York, where the train arrives double-headed with 50049 in the lead. A mass of enthusiasts had assembled awaiting the Hoovers' arrival, with some lying down on the platform to seize a few artistic photographs. Jets of hot clag sputtered upwards into the magnificent glass canopy that straddles much of York Station.

From there I repositioned to Haydon Bridge, which is actually in Northumberland! A Northern Sprinter was just ahead of 1Z31, which approached the station at walking pace under cautionary signals. The semaphores on the Tyne Valley Line make a nice accompaniment to any photograph. The signaller cleared the final signal on the approach to Haydon Bridge just before the train came to a stand, signifying that the next signal may well be at danger due to the slower stopper up ahead.

Finally, I travelled to Cononley Station which is on the Airedale Line in North Yorkshire. Cononley is the stop after Skipton, where train 1Z33 was booked to stop for a crew change. After a slight delay the train thundered through at quite a rate. I watched it disappear into the distance.

Filmed on 23rd July 2022.

Footage was captured using a Panasonic HC-VX1 (aff. link) fitted with a Rode VideoMic Go (aff. link).

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