A bench with a view - part one.
- Jo
- Oct 6, 2019
- 4 min read
I am a sucker for a good view and I can take pictures of them all day. But I wanted to give them some perspective, give the viewer a way to putting themselves in the photo and enjoy the view as much as I did when I was taking the photo.

This one was taken at Brockholes Nature Reserve. With over 250 acres of natural beauty that plays host to a variety of different wildlife throughout the year you’re guaranteed to find something new here every time.
As a added bonus this is quite close to home just off J31 on the M6, on the A59.
It has several walking trails which takes in lakes and the River Ribble. If the walks haven't tired the kids out there is a fantastic natural adventure Play area too.


This bench hold a special place in my heart, as it is a memory bench for a special young lady, my best friends daughter, who sadly died in 2015 following her dreams of joining the army.
Her mum picked a lovely spot along the river.

This photo probably gave me the idea for this little project, it has everything I love about a good view, a nice peaceful view with lots of elements to look at that is forever changing. I could ave sat here for hours. What is not to love about this?

On our way on holiday we stopped half way and while the hubby went to work for the day, the boy and I decided to explore. We found this lovely country park. We chose one the of the many walking trails and took in the sights. My boy found fantastic playground which he was reluctant to leave. We also had time for dinner in the park onsite cafe which was yummy.
The next port of call on my Bench with view project was on the Isle of Wight. Here we tried to visit every point of the Isle. (I have written a separate blog about our holiday here, if you wish to read this please click on the link at the end of this blog). These benches take in the views of Sandown, Ryde and Ventnor.


Astley Park is a recent find but is fast becoming a favourite walk of ours. Astley Hall, Coach House and Park is a beautiful tourist spot located next to Chorley town centre. Within the grounds you will find acres of stunning parkland, the breath-taking Grade I historic house, Coach House which includes Café Ambio, the scenic Walled Garden, an exciting Pets Corner and play areas. Lots to do and well worth the visit.

After photographing my first ever wedding in Leeds we decided to stop over and then take in the local area before picking my boy up from family. Born and bred in Leeds, this is one place that I had never been, Pugneys Country park. Situated to the west of Wakefield city centre, one mile from junction 39 of the M1. There are a number of walks with good footpaths suited for all weather. A lovely 1.6 mile walk around the lake to start the day.

In an effort to get fit and an perfect excuse to take some gorgeous landscape photos, I bought some walking books and this was the first one from the Lake District. We did a the Rydal circular route and the views, as always, were amazing. This though, was the only bench on the route. Hoping to do this one again soon due to the amazing autumn colours that will be soon around.

Yarrow Valley Country Park is another local favorite walk of mine. Chorley’s increasingly popular Yarrow Valley Country Park is a 700-acre so lots of areas to explore and Indoubt that we've done even half of it! It has been awarded Green Flag status for the fifth year in a row.
This is our go to walk not only because of its close proximity but the walk is not taxing and is perfect for all weathers and with a newly built kids adventure playground that is a must for my boy.
There is even a cafe to end the walk with a nice cuppa or a ice cream.
To round off we take in another of Chorley's hidden parks, this time Cuerden Valley Park. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a picnic, walk the dog, splash in the river, visit the walled orchard, explore the many valley and woodland walks. We come here so often, usually if we visit the Asda as you can access it from the car park. This one isn't has all weather friendly as the others and can get quite muddy in places until you get to the main paths at the lake, near the river. From the main car parks, you are directly on the paths. I love this walk.

So that brings the first installment of my Bench with a View project to an end that leaves just one question: If you could sit and talk to anyone, on any of these benches, who would it be and why?
Thanks, as always, for taking the time to read. If if you would to read some of my other blogs please click here.









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