Byland Abbey at Sunset

Another day, another abbey - well two actually - and lots else besides. It was going to be an ‘easy’ day, but somehow we keep going all day, and I end up pretty  much exhausted! Still, it’s been a wonderful day of exploring the local area, and despite this morning’s forecast, we even have some sunshine. 

We start off at Rievaulx, not quite as magnificent - or complete - as Fountains, but captivating just the same, and when the sun comes out and casts shadows on those ancient honeyed stones, it’s magical. 

Then it’s up to the moors beyond Hawnby, and a walk along the black-earthed land past  a line of grouse butts - moss-topped stone built circles. We walk in silence, listening to the distant cries of curlew and grouse - a few of which fly from the heather as we pass. 

And finally we head for Sutton Bank to experience ‘the finest view in England’ - at least according to James Herriot, though in fact we see a whole lot more. We suspect there may even be a sunset, but by now I’ve had enough, and all I really want is to go  back to the cottage. 

But then, as we approach Coxwold - our village home for now - we drive pass Byland  Abbey silhouetted against the near-setting sun, perfectly reflected in the flooded fields. However tired I am I just have to get out of the car and walk along the road searching for the ‘perfect’ shot! 

And so, for the second day running, my main shows ruined abbey reflections, but today’s extras include Rievaulx Abbey, Hawnby Hill and grouse butts, a collage of Sutton Bank views, and the front of Byland in the evening sun. 

And thank you so much for your lovely responses to yesterday’s Fountains Abbey reflections.