Some of my sketches from Over Owler Tor – an imposing, fortress-like gritstone rock formation above the Surprise View near Hathersage in the Derbyshire Peak District.
SKETCHBOOK: Over Owler Tor
walking
WALK: Yarncliff Wood, Longshaw
Just a quick jaunt around Longshaw estate, exploring a few paths at the Yarncliff Wood end which are less familiar to me. Had to make a decision between turning left or right at one point, and of course I chose incorrectly.
Due to some unplanned clambering and mild peril, I didn’t have the time or energy to sketch but I did get a good workout (physically and emotionally), took some photos, and I stumbled upon the remains of some old buildings and a stone waymarker which as quite interesting.
At least I’ll know which way not to go next time. I was also very grateful to my past self for packing emergency jelly babies. Must remember to replenish those for next time.
SKETCHBOOK: Burbage Plantation
Short circular walk from Upper Burbage Bridge, down the valley, following the brook to Burbage Plantation under Higger Tor, stopping to do a couple of sketches, then back along Green Drive.
SHOP: White Tor, Derwent Edge
These two original Peak District landscape paintings were inspired by the autumn colours at White Tor and Derwent Edge above Ladybower Reservoir, near Bamford in Derbyshire.
I created these affordable Peak District landscapes using ink and conte crayon on 300gsm smooth watercolour paper. Measuring A3 (297 x 420mm) they can be easily framed yourself in a standard sized frame, or framed professionally for a more personal look. A lovely gift for UK walkers and hikers or for anyone with connections in the Peak District.
For sale at £90 each, unframed (including free UK shipping) from my Folksy shop.
BUY ONLINE NOW:
Autumn Glow and Autumn Moorland
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SKETCHBOOK: Ashopton to White Tor
Three hour walk from Ashopton Viaduct to White Tor, taking in the spectacular autumnal views of Ladybower and the upper Derwent Valley, marvelling at the rays of sun breaking through the clouds behind Win Hill, and exploring some of the rugged gritstone tors. Encountered more grouse than I have ever seen before, a huge flock of redwing (possibly fieldfares), some kind of raptor having a rest on a telegraph pole and a pair crows of course.
WALK: Stanage Plantation
Just some photos of the beautiful autumn colours at Stanage Plantation, in the Derbyshire Peak District.
Autumn in Ecclesall Woods
Autumnal scenes and fairy houses from a quick scoot around Ecclesall Woods this week. I love this time of year.
Walking, sketching, inspiration
Not much to report from the studio this week but here are a few snapshots from behind the scenes.
As well as grabbing as much painting time as I can between all the Other Things, I’ve been working on lots of shop updates and improvements, and I’ve put aside the guilt (mostly) and made time for a few sketch/walks out in the Peak District for some autumnal sunshine and inspiration.
I’m going to start sending out a monthly email newsletter again soon. I know I keep promising this, but I think I’ve found a format I can work with. If you’d like to read it, please make sure you join my mailing list and it will be sent directly to your email inbox. I never share any of your details with anyone else and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Return to the Secret Garden
Almost a year to the day since I last went to the Secret Garden near Surprise View. It was such a beautiful day I had to get a bit of outdoor therapy and moorland inspiration for some new Peak District art. Gorgeous spring colours, shadows and textures, and lots of silver birches of course. I also surprised some sheep, but I apologised for disturbing them and took another path.
