Just Beverley - Latest Issue - Flipbook - Page 17
especially wonderful, with the added thrill of a
hunting kestrel hovering on the thermals. No
wonder old country folk often call it the wind f…
ornicator!
Danes Dyke
Danes Dyke is one of the many wonderful
beaches that grace the magnificent landscape at
Flamborough Head. It is easy to walk the cliff-top
path the mile to South Landing and return on the
same route, with the bonus of differing views on
each leg.
Much better though, having checked tide times
- always go on a falling tide - to walk one way
along the wild, often rocky, beach below. This is
probably my favourite place in the entire region,
and when we went last month, my wife and I
surprised 3 perched cormorants. The sight of the
hasty departure of these most handsome seabirds
will live long in the memory. Here, you will also
discover a most precariously placed WW2 pillbox.
Londesborough
Some 2 miles north west of Market Weighton is a
joy to discover. A beautiful estate village on two
levels of a valley side with a lovely old church.
Best of all are the fascinating architectural remains
and gardens of the grand mansion that stood
here. You can access these through a wrought
iron gate (observe the instructions) near the
church - they are utterly beguiling.
Driffield Town Stroll
I have no wish to upset anyone, but in my view
Driffield does not make the best of its fine setting
by the sparkling waters of two becks and a
tranquil canal; footpath access could, and should,
be much better.
If you start behind the rail station at River Head,
however, you can enjoy a fine stroll along the
canal and by the infant rushing waters of the River
Hull. You must return on the same route, but you
could perhaps head into town to enjoy a great
Driffield River Head
range of retail and hospitality outlets, of a variety
fast disappearing elsewhere.
When should we go?
‘Walk the mead in bud, or blade or bloom.’
(Tennyson)
If we leave aside the heaviest rain, darkest nights,
or the strongest winds, almost any day or time is
a good time to walk. Being recently retired, I have
the luxury usually of waiting for sunshine before
setting out on walks. This is usually the best for
taking photographs, which for me are a key part of
a good walk.
Temperature is not that important; after a few
minutes even the coldest days are comfortable for
the vigorous walker. Spring days are exhilarating
as everything bursts into life, and a stroll through
the vibrant bluebells in May at Burton Bushes is
magnificent. However, the golden light of autumn
can take some beating, such as walking at
Millington Wood, and the hottest weather over the
summer makes long walks difficult. I completed
45 miles of the Wolds Way over 2 days in roasting
August heat last summer, and bottled water at a
Sherburn shop was a veritable oasis.
What should we take?
‘There is no unsuitable weather, just unsuitable
clothing... give me a map... and I am content’
(Alfred Wainwright)
This most loved quote of all English ramblers,
gives two pieces of splendid advice for the walker.
Waterproofs are nearly always advisable, and
maps, be they paper or digital, are absolutely
essential for serious walks and help you discover
so much more. For me, the 3 OS paper maps
that cover our county are a constant source of
pleasure and revelation, even after almost 40
years of local wanderings. Layers of clothing that
can easily be added to or discarded work well,
and a small day pack to carry water and food is
important to bring too.
I have also increasingly taken to using one trek
stick, which gives me extra traction on slippery
ground and over rocky beaches. Your editor,
Julian, has a tale to tell about the importance of
wearing appropriate footwear! I suggest using
decent quality walking boots, shoes or wellies,
depending on the weather and terrain.
So in 2021, when we can hope the pandemic is
put firmly behind us, get out on foot and explore
our wonderful area… you might just meet me
there!
Londesborough
w w w. j u s t b e v e r l e y. c o . u k
Ian Richardson, December 2020.
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