Daisy and I love autumn. I have a difficult time describing the glorious colours on display at this time of year so I’m hoping my photos offer an approximation to the majestic hues I have had the good fortune to see.
Doorway to autumn photo: JD
I drink in every shade of gold and auburn, burnished copper and glistening gold of the views before me. I take out my camera (read phone) and attempt to capture it all. Still, then it doesn’t come near to the colour I see. The image on my phone camera (I may need to look in to getting a proper camera!) looks so drab compared to what I see which just is NOT dull.
Autumn is exciting to me. I can see the leaves floating down to nourish the ground, the nuts falling, squirrels foraging for winter, fungi growing to benefit the ecosystem of the forest floor. It is preparation for the next stage; a prequel to the inevitable end of the year, but done in an unassuming, gentle and elegant way.
I know I sound a bit lyrical — but it’s the season, it really does bring out the poet in us all!
poetic views from high above in Mortimer Forest photo: Mani diez
I’m on top of the world
Daisy and I have enjoyed walks in the Corvedale, Brown Clee and Mortimers Forest, which offers a 360-degree view of the world, at least to me. I just love being up at the top of the Climbing Jack Trail. There’s nothing better for clearing the cobwebs than a brisk walk up to the viewpoint, I always feel so lucky that I have this on my doorstep — a wonderful outlook from the top of our magnificent, blue, Shropshire hills.
Last but by no means least, I cannot get enough of the Bread Walk a loop from Dinham Bridge to Ludford along the river, and back over Whitcliffe Common. It is always wonderful and different every day. The river is either rushing or dawdling, the wind rustling in the trees and, on a good day, watching two different families of otters (thanks to Jane Vaughan for the lovely video below) at play. It is also one of the best views of Ludlow from the top of the common.
I’m sharing how lucky Daisy and I are. I’m no poet but I’ve done my lyrical best to describe a favourite Ludlow treat —climbing to a high point nearby, find an arresting view and simply enjoy.