Swinty Reservoir

The fine weather encouraged us to venture a little further afield than nornal today, as we headed north to the Washburn Valley for the first time.

Lying between Wharfedale and Nidderdale, north of Otley and west of Harrogate, the Washburn is notable for a string of four reservoirs: Thurcross, Fewston, Swinsty and Lindley Wood. We saw the latter three of these, and 3yo's legs were just about up to the 3 mile walk around Swinty Reservoir.

We saw our first bluebells of the year, and I've logged these, complete with picture, on the National Trust's great interactive bluebell map.  When I posted the sighting this afternoon, ours was the furthest north in England by a country mile, but I suspect the site hasn't been spotted by many yet.

There were not many birds on the water, some Mallards, Canada and Pink Footed Geese. The woods were ringing to the sounds of Chiffchaffs, and a few were brave enough to perch in view as we walked past. There were several Curlew about too, the lakes being surrounded by upland pasture. My best sighting of the day was a first Treecreeper of the year, but most obliging for a photograph was this Robin.

I was a little undecided on which image from the day to select, but have ended up choosing one that shows off the lake for what it is, a reservoir, but that also captures the upland setting, and the brightness of the day.

enclosed by stone ~ a valley ~ drowned ~ cool water ~ for a hot day