Lmst

Ian Cylkowski

My mission is to show off the natural and architectural beauty of Britain to the world.

Welcome to York, one of England's oldest cities.

Roman history, medieval streets, a massive cathedral, ancient buildings, this city has it all. I can't believe it's been 12 years since I last visited.

There's LOADS more images from this day. View them all here -> https://www.iancylkowski.com/blog/2026/1/31/york-north-yorkshire-winter 👍️

#york #yorkshire #northyorkshire #architecture #history #historical #uk #britain #england #winter #travel #medieval

A dramatic low-angle shot looks up at the towering west front of York Minster, its pale limestone facade glowing under a bright, clear sky. The intricate Gothic architecture is showcased through soaring twin towers, ornate stone carvings, and the massive Great West Window with its delicate tracery. In the foreground, a traditional black Victorian-style street lamp stands prominently to the left, positioned behind a wrought-iron fence. At the base of the cathedral, several small figures of people walk across the paved square, dwarfed by the sheer scale of the minster. The low sun casts long, soft shadows across the ground, highlighting the textures of the masonry and the grand arched entrances of this historic English landmark.

A wide-angle evening shot captures the charming corner of Stonegate's Original Teddy Bear Shop in York, housed in a historic timber-framed building with a jettied upper floor. The shopfront features a bright red door and large multi-paned windows filled with soft toys, framed by festive green garlands and twinkling fairy lights. A life-sized, furry brown bear statue stands on the pavement outside the entrance, welcoming passers-by. Above the corner post, a peculiar carved wooden figure, known as the 'Little Admiral', is attached to the beam, while a traditional hanging sign for the shop dangles from the wall. The narrow, cobbled street stretches into the distance under a deep blue twilight sky, with the warm glow from neighbouring shop windows and overhead Christmas lights reflecting off the damp flagstones as a few pedestrians stroll past.

A low-angle shot captures the sun-drenched ruins of St Mary's Abbey in York, with the crumbling stone walls rising from a frost-dusted green lawn. In the foreground, large, weathered stone blocks and the bases of former columns sit amongst the grass, leading the eye towards the main structure. The remaining abbey wall features tall, slender columns and elegant Gothic arches that frame the bright blue sky. Warm, golden sunlight hits the pale stone, casting long shadows across the ground and highlighting the intricate carvings still visible on the ruined masonry. Bare trees stand in the background under a soft morning light, enhancing the tranquil and historic atmosphere of the site.

A high-angle, wide-view shot captures the historic Shambles in York, where narrow, cobbled streets are lined with overhanging timber-framed buildings. In the foreground, a man in a green puffer jacket walks past a shop window, while further down the lane, several people stroll along the uneven pavement. To the right, the dark green storefront of W. Hamond, "The Original Whitby Jet Shop," stands out with its gold lettering. Above the street, traditional hanging signs for "Little Shambles Jewellers" and "Monk Bar Chocolatiers" add to the medieval atmosphere. The timber-framed structures lean towards each other over the narrow alleyway under a pale blue sky, creating a sense of enclosed history.

Glad you like!

Brimham Rocks in deep winter.

It's here in the Nidderdale National Landscape that you can a collection of some of the most fascinating rock formations in all the UK.

Even better when gently dusted with snow and ice.

Plenty more photos from this day are waiting for your impatient eyeballs, right here -> https://www.iancylkowski.com/blog/2026/1/17/brimham-rocks-nidderdale-national-landscape-winter 👍

#landscape #landscapephotography #nature #travel #winter #uk #britain #england #nidderdale #brimhamrocks #yorkshire #northyorkshire

A close-up, low-angle shot looks across a series of large, rounded gritstone boulders in the foreground towards the distant Eagle rock formation at Brimham Rocks. The foreground boulders are heavily textured with moss and lichen, their upper surfaces blanketed in a crisp, white layer of frost. On the closest rock, a circular pattern has been traced into the frost, revealing the dark stone beneath. In the mid-ground, a sparse cluster of leafless silver birch trees stands against a backdrop of more massive, weathered rock stacks. To the right, the Eagle formation rises prominently, its distinctive top-heavy shape silhouetted against a clear, vibrant blue sky. The low winter sun illuminates the scene from the side, creating long shadows and highlighting the sparkling texture of the frozen ground.

A wide landscape shot captures the Blacksmith's Anvil, a dramatic gritstone rock formation at Brimham Rocks under a clear blue winter sky. The central focus is a large, weathered tor that tapers at its waist before flaring out into a wide, flat top resembling an anvil, its upper surfaces dusted with a fine layer of white frost or light snow. To the left, several other rounded, tiered boulders cluster together, also showing signs of frost. The foreground consists of uneven, sandy ground covered in patches of moss and a light dusting of snow, with low-lying brown bracken and a small evergreen shrub nestled amongst the rocks. The low winter sun casts long, soft shadows and bathes the scene in a warm, golden light, highlighting the rugged textures of the stone. In the background, a hazy horizon of distant trees sits beneath the vast, pale blue sky.

A low-angle vertical shot captures a towering, weathered gritstone outcrop at Brimham Rocks under a bright, clear blue sky. In the foreground, a large, rounded boulder is partially covered with a dusting of white frost, revealing patches of dark, mossy stone underneath. To the left, a dense, reddish-brown heather bush huddles against the base of the rocks. The main rock formation rises steeply, its surface etched with horizontal layers and deep fissures from centuries of erosion. To the right, another large, rounded rock stack is visible, its top also dusted with frost. Bare, spindly branches of silver birch trees peek out from behind the central formation. The scene is bathed in the warm, low light of a winter sun, casting soft shadows and highlighting the rugged, ancient textures of the landscape.

A wide, low-angle shot captures the dramatic "Castle Rocks" at Brimham Rocks on a crisp winter day. Two massive, weathered gritstone stacks frame a narrow passage, their surfaces heavily layered and textured with deep horizontal grooves and patches of vibrant green moss. The stack on the left towers upwards, its rounded edges catching the warm, low sun, while the stack on the right is partially covered in a dusting of white frost and snow. In the centre, a lone, delicate silver birch tree with bare, spindly branches stands atop a smaller rock formation, silhouetted against the bright, hazy sky. The foreground is a mix of dark earth, patches of frost-covered grass, and small tufts of dry heather, leading the eye through the rocky gap. The soft, golden light of the winter sun creates a serene and ancient atmosphere across the rugged Yorkshire landscape.

⚠ NEW LOCATION KLAXON ⚠

Happy 2026! Welcome to a wintery Coledale, the first time we've ever been in this remote Lake District valley. At its head are the abandoned remains of Force Crag Mine.

Plenty more from this cold day, just look at them here -> https://www.iancylkowski.com/blog/2026/1/7/coledale-lake-district-england 👍️

#landscape #landscapephotography #nature #travel #history #mine #abandonedbuilding #lakedistrict #uk #britain #england #winter

A landscape view from a hillside track in the Lake District looks across a valley towards the imposing, snow-dusted massif of Skiddaw. In the foreground, a man and a woman in winter coats and woolly hats walk towards the camera along a grey gravel path that winds around a steep slope covered in dry, rust-coloured bracken and dark green gorse. Dramatic golden sunlight breaks through the clouds, illuminating the upper ridges of the mountains in a warm glow while casting deep, cool shadows into the craggy ravines. Below the path, the valley floor is a patchwork of pale green fields and small clusters of white cottages, leading the eye towards the distant, hazy peaks under a soft, overcast sky.

At the head of the Coledale valley, the weathered, industrial remains of Force Crag Mine huddle against the base of a towering, dark rock face. The main mine building is a multi-storey structure of red brick and rusted corrugated iron, appearing desolate against the steep, grey scree slopes and patches of yellowed grass. To the left, a slender waterfall cascades down the craggy fellside, whilst in the lower foreground, a person walks a dog along a grey gravel track that leads towards the abandoned site. The scene is set under a flat, overcast sky, highlighting the rugged and sombre atmosphere of this remote Lakeland location.

A vertical, wide-angle shot captures a frozen mountain stream at the head of Coledale, with the rugged slopes of the Lake District rising in the background. In the foreground, the stream is partially frozen, featuring intricate, needle-like ice crystals and solid white patches of ice that contrast with the dark, flowing water and mossy rocks. The water winds through a rocky gully filled with clumps of dry, golden-brown grasses and reeds. In the distance, a small waterfall trickles down a steep, craggy hillside covered in a patchwork of green moss, brown bracken, and grey scree. The overcast light creates a cool, moody atmosphere, highlighting the textures of the frost and the weathered landscape.

My absolute pleasure, thank you!

t finally stopped raining long enough to get outside.

And we wanted VAST views, so off to Morecambe we went! With the tide racing out and the clouds moving in, it made for a fantastic light show.

More images from this outing are ready and waiting for your eyeballs, just here -> https://www.iancylkowski.com/blog/2025/12/21/morecambe-lancashire-winter 👍

If I don't see you until 2026, have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. 🎉

#landscape #landscapephotography #architecture #morecambe #morecambebay #lancashire #uk #britain #england #winter #travel #nature

A dramatic view of the Stone Jetty at Morecambe, captured under a heavy, brooding sky filled with dark grey storm clouds. A narrow shaft of brilliant sunlight breaks through the gloom, spotlighting the long stone breakwater and its distinctive golden-stone building, which features a small white lighthouse tower. In the foreground, the vast expanse of Morecambe Bay's wet sands at low tide creates shimmering reflections of the moody sky, while the faint, hazy silhouettes of the Lake District fells are visible across the water on the horizon. The stark contrast between the luminous jetty and the deep shadows of the encroaching storm provides a powerful sense of atmosphere and scale along the Lancashire coast.

A tranquil coastal landscape at Morecambe Bay, where two small fishing boats lie grounded on a muddy salt marsh interspersed with tufts of golden-brown grass and reflective blue pools. On the left, a sturdy red boat with a white cabin is positioned prominently, while to the right, a dark-hulled wooden vessel with a tall mast leans slightly in the soft mud. Behind them, a horizontal breakwater made of large, weathered brown rocks stretches across the frame, shielding the marsh from the calm, deep blue sea beyond. In the far distance, the hazy blue outlines of the Lakeland fells across the bay are visible beneath a pale sky, with the entire scene illuminated by the warm, low-angled light of a clear afternoon.

A striking view from the sandy shore at Morecambe, looking across a foreground of light-coloured limestone sea defences towards the iconic Art Deco Midland Hotel. The gleaming white, curved facade of the hotel stands out vividly under a break in the clouds, contrasted against a heavy and brooding dark grey sky that looms over the vast, wet expanse of the bay at low tide. To the right, the edge of the promenade is visible with its distinctive pale green railings, while in the mid-distance, the RNLI lifeboat station sits near the water's edge. Hazy silhouettes of the Cumbrian fells are visible on the horizon, completing this atmospheric coastal scene which captures the stark, beautiful light typical of a storm clearing over the Lancashire coast.

A wide-angled coastal view across Morecambe Bay from a rocky breakwater, looking towards the distant town of Grange-over-Sands nestled along the sloping green hills of the Cumbrian coastline. In the foreground, large, sun-drenched brown and grey boulders form a sea defence, some covered in dark green algae where the tide has receded. The calm, blue water of the bay fills the middle ground, featuring a solitary, slender timber navigation post topped with a green conical marker. Further out, a smaller spit of rock is populated by a cluster of white seabirds resting near the water's edge. Under a bright sky scattered with soft, white clouds, the scene is bathed in a crisp, clear light that highlights the white buildings of the distant settlement across the expanse of the bay.

Not bad, eh?

Snow's back, wahoo!

Took advantage of a relatively clear, and freezing cold, day to hike up Crina Bottom in the Yorkshire Dales, taking in Ingleborough's magnificent snow-capped form.

More images from this day are just right here -> https://www.iancylkowski.com/blog/2025/12/1/crina-bottom-yorkshire-dales-winter

#landscape #landscapephotography #nature #travel #winter #uk #britain #england #yorkshiredales #yorkshire #northyorkshire

$A striking winter landscape of White Scar limestone pavement stretches across the foreground in sharp relief, with pale cream and grey bedrock fractured into characteristic clints and grikes, many of the fissures filled with pristine white snow that creates an intricate linear pattern receding into the distance, whilst the weathered limestone blocks themselves display warm golden-brown lichen and oxidised surfaces; beyond this austere, sculptured terrain rises the distinctive conical profile of Ingleborough, its upper reaches capped with white frost or snow and crowned by the pale limestone scarps that form the mountain's characteristic silhouette against a clear, brilliant blue sky; the lower slopes of the fell, rendered in warm tan and russet tones, provide powerful tonal contrast to the cool blue-white of the pavement and sky, creating a landscape that eloquently expresses the raw, elemental geology of the Craven Pennines at the threshold of winter.$

Two tall, weathered limestone uprights stand sentinel on Crina Bottom's pavement, their pale grey surfaces streaked with darker lichen and oxidation marks, leaning slightly towards one another across a narrow gap that frames a smaller wedge-shaped stone between them, creating a dramatic sculptural composition emphasising the raw power of frost-shattered limestone; the bases and surrounding ground are clothed in vibrant moss and low vegetation in shades of lime-green and golden-yellow, with scattered smaller blocks of weathered stone embedded in the verdant carpet, whilst the background reveals the characteristic jumbled limestone pavement stretching away beneath clear blue sky, dotted with numerous boulders and exposed stone surfaces weathered to pale cream and grey; distant walkers can be glimpsed traversing the moorland beyond, and Ingleborough's frost-capped slopes rise hazily on the horizon, anchoring this intimate detail within the broader alpine landscape, where the interplay of

It's not often you find the stunning ruins of an abbey near a city centre.

Welcome to Kirkstall Abbey, a nearly 900-year old ruined abbey northwest of Leeds city centre. A mystical and grandiose place.

More photos are available of the abbey, just go here -> https://www.iancylkowski.com/blog/2025/11/22/kirkstall-abbey-west-yorkshire-autumn 👍️

A dramatic view of the ruins of Kirkstall Abbey taken from the grassy cloister courtyard, looking towards the south side of the nave and the partially collapsed central tower. The ancient stone structure is bathed in a bright patch of sunlight, highlighting its warm orange-brown colours and weathered texture, while the sky above is dominated by heavy, dark, brooding storm clouds. The massive walls, punctuated by rows of arched windows and doorways, frame the scene, with a paved walkway leading around the perimeter. A person wearing a light coat is visible in the lower right corner, walking along the wall, providing a sense of scale.

A dramatic, low-angle photograph captures the interior of the ruined nave and aisle of Kirkstall Abbey, showing the difference in preservation between the two sections. On the left, the main columns of the nave stand mostly intact, supporting the remains of the arcade arches, with the sky visible through the missing roof. On the right, the aisle is relatively complete, featuring an impressive perspective of a long, vaulted stone ceiling supported by a continuous row of columns, leading into the distance. Bright sunlight streams through the open side of the nave, contrasting with the shadowed aisle, where the rough, textured stone walls and ceiling are illuminated with a warm, golden-orange light.

An interior view of the Chapter House at Kirkstall Abbey, showcasing its intricate medieval architecture with ribbed, vaulted stone ceilings supported by heavy columns. The space is dimly lit, with natural light entering through two small, high arched windows at the far end, illuminating a set of stone steps and a raised platform. The stone work is heavily weathered, displaying tones of mossy green, brown, and warm orange-red, creating a sense of age and ruin. The perspective is slightly wide-angled, emphasising the curve of the arches and the impressive height of the central pillars.

A dramatic, low-angle shot looking down the ruinous nave of Kirkstall Abbey in Leeds. Two rows of towering, weathered stone arches and pillars frame a central pathway that leads towards the main archway of the chancel, the roof and vaulting being entirely absent. Through the central arch, a partially collapsed tower and further ruins are visible, with a burst of brilliant golden-yellow autumn foliage from a tree in the distance contrasting against the muted brown and grey stone. A small group of people are gathered near the chancel archway, giving a sense of scale to the massive structure. The sky above is a mix of bright white and grey clouds.

Ta very much!

An assortment from our time in Shropshire.

A few bits and bobs from the Stiperstones (a failed sunset shoot) and what I managed to nab at Ironbridge on a mizzly drizzly day.

More photos from these locations are right here -> https://www.iancylkowski.com/blog/2025/11/17/an-assortment-shropshire-autumn 👍️

#landscape #landscapephotography #architecture #history #historical #shropshire #autumn #fall #uk #britain #england #stiperstones #ironbridge

A lone person stands on top of a jagged outcrop of grey rock at Cranberry Rock on the Stiperstones, looking out over a broad rural landscape under a heavy sky. The crags rise sharply from heather moorland that fills the foreground with russet and earthy tones. Beyond the main ridge, rolling hills and patchwork fields stretch into the distance with muted autumn colours. Low cloud and soft, diffused light give the scene a moody and atmospheric feel.

A view of the Iron Bridge shows its red cast iron ribs arching gracefully over the River Severn, framed by dense autumn foliage in shades of green, gold and deep red. The river runs quietly beneath the structure, reflecting patches of sky and scattered leaves. A narrow riverside path curves below the right side of the bridge, bordered by shrubs and a metal handrail. A person stands on the bridge, small against the ornate latticework and stone abutments. Low cloud and soft light give the scene a calm and misty atmosphere.

$A rugged foreground of pale, lichen-streaked quartzite blocks rises out of heather and low scrub, their fractured surfaces catching the cool light under a brooding sky. Clumps of rusty brown and copper-tinted heather sit in the gaps between the rocks, adding warmth to an otherwise muted palette. The landscape rolls gently away towards a line of jagged tors in the distance, leading the eye towards Manstone Rock and the Devil’s Chair. The scene feels exposed and windswept, with wide moorland stretching out beneath heavy clouds that hint at changing weather.$

A wide view of the Iron Bridge shows its red iron arches rising above dense autumn vegetation, with golden and green shrubs filling the riverside slope beneath it. The stone abutments frame the ironwork as it spans the River Severn, while a few pedestrians walk across the top against a backdrop of wooded hills in full autumn colour. A weathered stone wall runs along the left edge of the scene, and the sky above is overcast, giving the landscape a soft, muted light.

You know, Leeds is bloody lovely.

Clearly in the midst of massive investments and redevelopment, I enjoyed a wander around this clean and beautiful city, snapping all the architectural and historical delights I could frame.

There's LOADS more images from this day, go here -> https://www.iancylkowski.com/blog/2025/11/9/leeds-west-yorkshire-autumn 👍️

#architecture #architecturephotography #leeds #autumn #fall #city #yorkshire #uk #britain #england #travel #history #historical

County Arcade in Leeds presents a sumptuous Victorian arcade of exceptional architectural refinement, its soaring barrel-vaulted glass roof supported by ornamental cast-iron ribs flooding the interior with soft, diffused natural light that illuminates the richly decorated terracotta and cream-coloured faience tilework adorning the vaulted ceiling. The corridor stretches away in symmetrical perspective, flanked on both sides by elegant shop frontages with mahogany-framed glazing and gilt detailing, their display windows glowing warmly beneath brass light fittings that cast pools of amber illumination across the tessellated terracotta and cream geometric floor patterning below. Ornamental green and gilt decorative panels and scrollwork embellish the walls between shopfronts, creating a rhythm of pattern and refinement typical of late-Victorian arcade design, whilst cream-coloured classical pilasters with decorative capitals provide structural and visual emphasis to the elevation.

Leeds Town Hall's distinctive Italianate clock tower dominates the centre of this urban scene, its golden-hued stone and ornate cupola crowned with a gilt finial rising majestically against a brooding slate-blue sky mottled with cloud. The magnificent Victorian edifice, constructed from finely dressed ashlar in warm ochre tones, displays the classical architectural vocabulary of its era: fluted columns, decorative stonework, and pitched roof elements adorned with chimney stacks in contrasting red brick. To its right stands an adjacent period building of similar honey-coloured stone with rounded Romanesque-style window arcading, presently undergoing renovation with metal scaffolding visible across its facade. A modern public square fronts these heritage structures, animated with urban life: a green and blue articulated bus moves through the paved forecourt, pedestrians congregate amongst contemporary street furniture and lamp standards.

The Corn Exchange in Leeds displays its remarkable Victorian circular arcade architecture beneath an expansive glazed barrel-vaulted ceiling of cast iron and glass that floods the interior with natural light, creating a luminous cathedral-like atmosphere. The building's distinctive ringed gallery levels feature a succession of brightly painted arched shop frontages in jewel tones—yellows, blues, teals, reds, and greens—each surmounted by ornamental pediments and separated by decorative cornicing that runs continuously around the cylindrical space. Wrought-iron railings with burnished brass rails delineate each level, their serpentine curves echoing the building's circular geometry, whilst the warm honey-toned wooden floors of the ground level contrast beautifully with the darker slate-grey patterned flooring of the central sunken floor. A sweeping curved double staircase with elegant brass handrails descends into this central arena, where visitors congregate.

St. John the Evangelist's Church in Leeds rises majestically in coursed gritstone Gothic Revival architecture, its steeply pitched roof and soaring pinnacled tower dominating the composition against a bright cerulean sky streaked with white cloud, the tower crowned with gilt finials and pierced by elegant lancet windows characteristic of the Perpendicular style. The church's robust masonry, rendered in grey-buff stone with darker weathered patches, displays the typical vocabulary of Victorian ecclesiastical design—pointed arch windows with geometric tracery, buttresses articulating the elevation, and decorative carved stonework—whilst the substantial tower features a prominent circular clock face set within the masonry. To the immediate left stands a contemporary iron railing enclosing the churchyard, beyond which modern residential and commercial architecture rises in stark contrast: sleek glass-clad high-rise towers in pale blue and cream, warm terracotta-brick mid-rise apartments.

Perhaps one of the best preserved fortified medieval manors in England.

This is Stokesay Castle, built in the 1200s. 700-years of history. Crazy, eh?

There's more photos of this place, and you can see them all here -> https://www.iancylkowski.com/blog/2025/11/4/stokesay-castle-shropshire-autumn 👍

#architecture #architeceturephotography #history #historical #autumn #fall #travel #shropshire #uk #britain #england

The timber-framed gatehouse of Stokesay Castle rises prominently against a brilliant autumn sky, its distinctive black and ochre half-timbering characteristic of the 16th-century Elizabethan period, with steeply pitched gables and a tall brick chimney punctuating the roofline. Viewed through an ornamental foreground of climbing plants bearing delicate white and pink flowers, the gatehouse displays the classic jettied construction typical of the era, with the upper storeys projecting forward over the lower levels, whilst the adjacent stone structures and thatched roofs of the castle complex extend to the right. The surrounding landscape unfolds in soft greens and autumnal hues, with wooded hills visible beyond the grounds, and the composition captures the gateway's commanding presence as the threshold to this exceptional Marcher fortress, where medieval military architecture seamlessly transitions into the domestic refinements of the Tudor period.

The interior of Stokesay Castle's Solar Block stairwell descends into shadow and history, with substantial timber posts and beams rendered in warm honey and amber tones creating a framework of medieval craftsmanship. Bright daylight streams through two tall windows, one on either side of the staircase, casting sharp geometric shadows across the worn wooden steps and illuminating the rendered stone walls with an ethereal blue-white glow that contrasts strikingly with the aged timber. A sturdy wooden handrail with vertical balusters guides the descent, whilst the exposed ceiling beams and structural supports overhead speak to the 14th-century construction, all contributing to the palpable sense of stepping back through centuries as one moves from the comparatively brighter ground floor towards the dim cellar below.

Stokesay Castle presents a striking façade of honey-coloured sandstone beneath a dramatic autumn sky, its crenellated towers and steeply pitched slate roofs speaking to centuries of border fortification in the Welsh Marches. The castle's south-facing elevation reveals the distinctive Early English Gothic architecture characteristic of the 13th century, with lancet windows piercing the substantial walls and a commanding square tower flying the Union flag rising prominently from the left. Golden-hued ivy and autumn foliage in shades of amber and bronze cling to the weathered stone in the foreground, softening the fortress's formidable appearance, whilst the lush green sward stretches before the building beneath a brooding sky scattered with white clouds, creating a quintessentially English pastoral backdrop that belies the castle's martial heritage as one of the finest surviving fortified manor houses in England.

The timber-framed gatehouse of Stokesay Castle commands attention in vivid ochre and black half-timbering, its steeply pitched gables and prominent brick chimney silhouetted against a brilliant blue sky dotted with white clouds, whilst weathered wooden fencing in the foreground suggests the domestic pastoral character of this 16th-century structure. The jettied construction of the upper storeys displays the distinctive diamond and geometric patterning characteristic of Elizabethan timber-framing, with rows of vertical and diagonal bracing creating bold visual rhythms across the ochre-rendered infill panels. Beyond the gatehouse, the stone Church of Saint John the Baptist rises with its sturdy tower and russet-tiled roofing, anchoring the composition in the middle distance amongst autumn-tinged vegetation, whilst the meticulously maintained green sward and the substantial stone foundations visible to the left ground the scene in the bucolic countryside of the Welsh Marches, creating a h

*DOUBLE COMBO NEW LOCATION KLAXON* 🚨

Welcome to Shrewsbury, one of the best preserved medieval towns in all England.

Cracking light photographing these beautiful buildings, but it weren't long before the rain followed us and fell.

Plenty more photos of this gorgeous town, just take a peek here -> https://www.iancylkowski.com/blog/2025/11/1/shrewsbury-shropshire-autumn 👍

#architecture #architecturephotography #history #historical #uk #britain #england #shrewsbury #shropshire #autumn #fall

A historic narrow street in Shrewsbury is framed by timber-framed and whitewashed stone buildings on either side, their dark wooden beams contrasting sharply against cream-coloured walls, with small-paned windows and dark doorways visible along the street level. The distinctive tall spire of St. Alkmund's Church rises prominently in the background, its pointed Gothic architecture piercing a brilliant blue sky dotted with wispy white clouds. In the foreground on the left, the Prince Rupert Hotel displays hanging heraldic signs and decorative banners, including the Union Jack flag, whilst traditional pub signs hang from wrought-iron brackets. The warm sunlight casts long shadows across the cobbled street, highlighting the architectural details of these medieval buildings and creating a picturesque, timeless scene typical of England's historic market towns.

A narrow, covered passageway called Barracks Passage runs beneath historic timber-framed buildings in Shrewsbury, with exposed dark wooden beams set against whitewashed walls creating a distinctive architectural framework overhead. The wet flagstone floor reflects warm golden lighting from decorative lanterns strung along the passage, whilst a signboard for the Henry Tudor Inn displaying opening hours and the motto "By Joule's It's Good" is prominently mounted on the left-hand wall in black and gold lettering. The passage slopes gently downhill towards the inn's entrance, which is visible in the distance with its characteristic half-timbered façade and warm amber-coloured lighting spilling across the stonework. Medieval decorative panels and artwork adorn the right-hand wall, adding character to this atmospheric walkway that epitomises the hidden historic charm found within Shrewsbury's town centre, with the damp stonework and ambient lighting creating an inviting, intimate atmosphere.

A narrow cobbled alleyway, Grope Lane, runs between distinctive timber-framed medieval buildings in Shrewsbury, with the street name clearly visible on a blue sign affixed to the right-hand building. The buildings lining both sides feature characteristic black timber frames set against white and terracotta-coloured walls, with small-paned windows and dark wooden doors at street level, including an art gallery entrance on the left. The street slopes gently upwards into the distance, where a church spire is visible against an overcast sky with patches of cloud, whilst sparse autumn foliage from nearby trees can be seen overhead. The atmosphere is atmospheric and quintessentially medieval, with the warm tones of the aged stonework and brickwork contrasting against the darker timber frames, creating a sense of stepping back into Shrewsbury's historic past as one of England's best-preserved medieval towns.

A wet street slopes gently downhill along Wyle Cop in Shrewsbury, lined with rows of striking timber-framed buildings dating back centuries, their distinctive black wooden beams creating bold geometric patterns against cream and white-rendered walls. The Henry Tudor Inn, dated 1429, stands prominently amongst the shopfronts on the right-hand side, with various independent retailers and galleries occupying the ground floors of these historic buildings. A handful of pedestrians move along the damp pavement beneath an overcast, dramatic sky filled with grey and white clouds, whilst the wet surface reflects the warm glow of shop windows and street lighting. The street recedes into the distance with rows of further historic buildings flanking both sides, creating a tunnel-like perspective that emphasises the medieval character and charm of this remarkably well-preserved Shropshire town centre, with glimpses of the surrounding hillsides visible beyond the buildings.

Thanks!

*NEW LOCATION KLAXON* 🚨

Welcome to the Shropshire Hills. Starting in the Carding Mill Valley, we enjoyed a solid 10km hike taking in the reservoir, Lightspout waterfall, and all the glorious views from the top of the Long Mynd.

Not pictured: getting drenched.

More photos from this day are waiting for you, yes you, specifically -> https://www.iancylkowski.com/blog/2025/10/31/long-mynd-shropshire-hills-autumn 👍

#landscape #landscapephotography #autumn #fall #shropshire #uk #britain #england #cardingmillvalley #longmynd #nature #travel

A dramatic rainbow arcs across a cloudy sky above a sweeping autumnal landscape, with the foreground composed of dark reddish-brown moorland grasses and low heather in the foreground, whilst distant rounded hills rise in layers of russet, mauve, and sage green beneath bands of mist and atmospheric haze. The middle distance reveals pastoral fields in soft greens and golds nestled between the undulating slopes, with Caer Caradoc's distinctive rounded summit prominent on the right, its flanks painted in autumn hues of burgundy and burnt sienna. Brooding storm clouds dominate the upper half of the composition, their grey and white masses illuminated by breaks of pale blue sky through which the rainbow glows brilliantly, creating a moody yet uplifting vista characteristic of the Shropshire Hills' dramatic weather and rugged moorland terrain.

A rocky mountain stream winds through a deep valley beneath towering hillsides in autumn, with a wooden footbridge visible in the middle distance spanning the water. The steep slopes on either side are clothed in moorland vegetation displaying the season's palette of burnt orange, russet brown, and moss green, interspersed with exposed grey limestone and white scree, whilst the prominent rounded summit of Haddon Hill rises majestically ahead, its upper reaches bathed in warm sunlight and covered in golden-green grass with darker patches of heather and bracken. The clear stream tumbles over smooth rocks in the foreground, flanked by low vegetation and ferns, and the sky above is pale blue with soft white clouds, creating a serene autumnal landscape typical of the Shropshire Hills.

A narrow waterfall cascades down a dark rocky cliff face into a small dark pool within a dramatic gorge, flanked by steep stratified limestone walls covered in moss, lichen, and autumn vegetation in shades of burnt orange, rust, and sage green. The waterfall's white water contrasts sharply against the shadowed stone as it tumbles between the towering rock faces, which display natural geological layering and weathered surfaces stained with mineral deposits and algae growth. Boulders and rocky outcrops jut from the ground in the foreground, their surfaces worn smooth by water and time, whilst overhanging vegetation and ferns cling to crevices along the cliff edges, creating an intimate and secluded natural amphitheatre typical of the hidden geological gems found throughout the Shropshire Hills.

A grey and a chestnut pony graze peacefully on lush green moorland dotted with patches of golden-brown tussock grass in the foreground, within a dramatic V-shaped valley framed by steep darkly-vegetated hillsides in shades of moss green and russet brown. Beyond the valley, the picturesque market town of Church Stretton nestles amongst clusters of trees in the middle distance, its buildings rendered small by scale but clearly visible amidst autumnal woodland in yellows and greens, whilst the distinctive rounded summit of Hope Bowdler Hill rises majestically in the far background with similar autumnal colouration. The landscape extends further still to distant purple-hazed ridges and the faraway Clee Hills, all beneath a pale sky scattered with soft white clouds, creating a quintessential Shropshire Hills vista that captures the essence of the moorland's pastoral character and dramatic topography.

Awww that's ace! This was my first time in the county, and Ludlow blew me away.

I've just had a week in Shropshire. First time. What a bloody lovely county.

First on the menu for you, Ludlow, a beautiful and deeply historical town. This small town is home to nearly 500 listed buildings, deemed historically and/or architecturally significant.

View more of these new photos right here -> https://www.iancylkowski.com/blog/2025/10/26/ludlow-shropshire-autumn 👍

#architecture #architecturephotography #history #historical #shropshire #ludlow #medievaltown #autumn #fall #uk #britain #england

A picturesque street scene from Broad Street in Ludlow showcases a striking contrast between architectural periods, with a timber-framed building featuring distinctive dark wooden beams and white infill panels dominating the foreground on the right, its ornately carved bargeboards and leaded casement windows exemplifying Tudor craftsmanship. Behind and rising majestically above the period buildings stands St. Laurence's Church, its golden sandstone tower soaring skyward with multiple decorative pinnacles and a row of tall, pointed lancet windows that speak to its Perpendicular Gothic heritage. To the left, a later red-brick Georgian building provides contemporary context to the medieval street layout, whilst ground-floor shopfronts including what appears to be a clothing retailer occupy the street level, and a clear blue sky with scattered white clouds illuminates the honey-coloured stonework, creating a scene that encapsulates Ludlow's rich historical layers.

A magnificent timber-framed building with distinctive dark wooden beams contrasts sharply against cream-coloured infill panels, featuring multiple gabled roofs with ornate carved details and decorative bargeboards typical of late medieval architecture. The Feathers Hotel in Ludlow showcases intricate geometric lattice patterning across its windows and decorative panels, with the ground floor featuring shop frontage adorned with hanging baskets of vibrant pink and white flowers beneath a covered walkway supported by dark timber posts. The building's stepped gable roofline rises prominently against a partly cloudy blue sky, whilst neighbouring historic structures in pale cream render are visible to the left, and the wet paving stones below suggest recent rain, all capturing the charm of this Grade I listed building that stands as a quintessential example of English Tudor heritage architecture in the heart of Shropshire's historic market town.

A magnificent medieval stone bridge spans the River Teme at Dinham, its three graceful arches constructed from pale honey-coloured ashlar stone reflected in the still water below, whilst ivy and lichen cling to its weathered masonry and parapet walls that are dotted with small plants thriving in crevices. Dominating the skyline behind the bridge, the imposing ruins of Ludlow Castle rise majestically above the riverbank, its sturdy stone towers and crenellated walls partially softened by a vibrant display of autumnal foliage in shades of golden yellow, amber and green, with a red-brick Georgian building visible amongst the trees to the right. The foreground is framed by lush riverside vegetation including sedges and wild plants along the water's edge, whilst the clear blue sky dotted with white clouds and dappled sunlight create an atmospheric scene that captures the historical significance and natural beauty of this Shropshire landscape.

A striking row of historic timber-framed buildings in Ludlow displays the characteristic architecture of medieval England, with Ye Olde Bull Ring Tavern prominently featured at ground level, its brick frontage bearing the establishment's name in golden lettering beneath storeys of intricately patterned dark wooden beams and cream-coloured infill panels that rise to steeply pitched gable roofs. The building, dated circa 1365 as indicated on its left side, showcases multiple mullioned casement windows with leaded panes that reflect the afternoon light, whilst decorative wrought-iron signs hang from the facade, including a stylised tree motif above the tavern entrance. To the right, neighbouring buildings continue the architectural tradition with their own geometric beam patterns and stepped gables, their pale stone construction providing contrast, and the wet paving stones below suggest recent rainfall, all beneath a partly cloudy sky.

All my years of living in Cumbria and I'd never once visited Holker Hall & Gardens until recently.

Absolutely exquisite place. Home to the Cavendish noble family.

There's LOADS more photos from this day, all taken on my Google Pixel 9 Pro XL. Ever wanted to know how some of the British aristocracy lived? https://www.iancylkowski.com/blog/2025/10/5/holker-hall-cumbria-autumn 👍

#architecture #architecturephotography #history #historical #countryhouse #cumbria #uk #britain #england #autumn #fall #travel

A majestic Victorian-era sandstone mansion stands bathed in soft autumn sunlight, its ornate architecture featuring intricate stonework, mullioned windows, and decorative chimneys. The grand building is partially embraced by lush green trees with hints of changing foliage, while an elegant latticed stone wall curves in the foreground, framing the scene. The warm golden hues of the stonework contrast beautifully with the blue sky and verdant surrounding landscape, creating a quintessential British country estate scene that captures the gentle transition from late summer to early autumn in the Cumbria countryside.

A sumptuous library interior showcases rich wooden panelling and floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, with warm golden lighting casting an inviting glow across the room. Floral-patterned armchairs with delicate rose and cream upholstery are artfully arranged on an intricate blue and red Persian rug, surrounding a coffee table laden with blue-bound books. Elegant curtains frame a large mullioned window, whilst ornate portrait paintings and delicate decorative plates adorn the wood-panelled walls, creating an atmosphere of timeless British aristocratic comfort and scholarly refinement.

An opulent bedroom showcases a magnificent four-poster bed draped with crimson fabric and floral curtains, set against vibrant red wallpaper and beneath an intricate white plasterwork ceiling with elegant geometric patterns. A large bay window with sage green curtains floods the room with soft light, illuminating an ornate Persian rug in deep blues and reds, and highlighting the room's antique furnishings including a carved wooden wardrobe, delicate pink and turquoise chairs, and polished side tables. The space exudes aristocratic elegance, blending rich colours, luxurious textiles, and meticulous historical detail to create a sumptuous Victorian-era bedroom.

A magnificent Victorian sandstone mansion stands bathed in golden autumn sunlight, its intricate architectural details and mullioned windows framed by lush green trees and meticulously maintained gardens. In the foreground, a stone sculpture of a creature sits atop a pedestal, surrounded by neatly trimmed hedges and colourful flowering plants, with a gravel pathway leading towards the impressive building. The warm, rich tones of the stonework contrast beautifully with the verdant landscape, creating a quintessential English country estate scene that captures the timeless elegance of Holker Hall's gardens.

*NEW LOCATION: Chollerford and the ruins of the eastern abutment of the Roman Chesters Bridge*

Chollerford is a little village north of Hexham in Northumberland, and very close to the trail of Hadrian's Wall. In fact, it is here that the wall crossed the Tyne via a Roman bridge, Chesters Bridge.

There's some more photos, you just go here (that's easy, isn't it?) https://www.iancylkowski.com/blog/2025/8/24/chollerford-northumberland-summer 👍

#landscape #landscapephotography #architecture #history #historical #northumberland #hadrianswall #uk #britain #england #summer #roman #ruins

A panoramic view of the full Chesters Bridge ruins: a long run of moss‑covered, weathered limestone wall and scattered blocks stretch across the foreground and into the middle ground, showing the ruined approach and abutments. In the immediate foreground a paved stone platform and irregular rubble form the ruined floor, with thick moss on the stones. Two mature trees frame the scene from left and right, their canopies casting dappled shade over the ruins. Beyond, a grassy slope and low stone remnants run toward a distant fence line and gentle hills under a bright, partly cloudy sky, conveying a peaceful, historic landscape.

A tranquil riverside scene at Chollerford, Northumberland, with a historic stone arch bridge spanning a calm, reflective river. The bridge features several rounded arches in pale stone, their reflections creating arcs in the water. In the foreground a narrow riverside path runs beside a black metal railing, shaded by a large tree whose gnarled trunk dominates the right-hand side. A vintage-style lamp-post and flowering shrubs line the path, with greenery and fields in the distance beneath a grey, overcast sky.

Ruined remains of the old tower attached to the eastern abutment of Chesters Bridge, near Chollerford, built in rough, weathered limestone blocks now thick with moss and lichen. The wall forms a small, enclosed space with a low rectangular opening—likely a doorway or window—set in the wall under a heavy timber lintel. Large stone slabs lie toppled on the ground inside, while the area around is grassy and shaded by trees, giving a quiet, atmospheric glimpse of a historic ruin.

At the Chesters Bridge ruins, a maze of moss‑encrusted limestone blocks forms the ruined floor and lower walls of the old structure. The blocks are laid in a rough grid, many wearing a bright green cloak of moss, with gaps where roots intrude. Three large trees rise through the masonry, their trunks pushing through the stone and roots threading between the blocks. The surrounding ground is grass and earth, with a narrow worn path along the edge and a low, mossy bank beyond. Light filters through the leafy canopy above, casting dappled shadows over the ancient ruin.

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