RUSKIN'S VIEW

A gorgeous day today, weatherwise.  Bright and sunny, cold start but warmed up a bit later - ideal for me.

So we went to Kirkby Lonsdale as planned.  No problem with parking.  It turned out to be market day.  We did try to have a look around the market but as we were about to cross the road a coach came round the corner and stopped right in front of us.  So we went the other way but the sun was so bright we couldn't see anything on the stalls, so gave up I'm afraid.  No worries we can go back another day if we want to.

We then went into Cafe No. 44.  Quite busy but still enough seats.  Since we went last summer this has been taken over and given a refurbishment.  It looks good and modern and very clean.  The coffee was really good too. OK we decided we would have crumpets this morning, well 10.30am is too early for cake really and we didn't fancy a brunch as we'd have porridge for breakfast.

We then walked along Main Street.  I noticed a few changes to shops and another new cafe next door so we may try that another time but it looked quite busy this morning.

I will have to go back on my own to do some shopping as Hubby is no shopper, unless you know what you are going in for - he's not a browser!!!  

We went past the scene of the awful fire on 8th December last year.  I hadn't realised exactly where it was - right above the little indoor market area and the Children's Society Charity Shop.  I also hadn't realised how extensive the damage was, it is quite an eye opener.  I have included a link for anyone interested but it didn't feel right to take photos of the damage somehow.

We then walked on past The Sun Inn into the Church Gardens and round to Ruskin's View, the main reason for going.  I hadn't realised that only a small part of the walk was now opened and that is from the first viewing point and Radical Steps. So that was disappointing, still the riverside walk is always pleasant.

Hubby currently has a problem at the moment with his right foot and knee so we gave the uneven steps a miss this time and walked on down to the River Lune from the other side of the church.

A very pleasant walk - quite a few people about but not heaving.  We had to take our time due to Hubby's foot but it was very pleasant.

I didn't take any photos of Devil's Bridge this time as I have loads of them already.  In the park at one side of the bridge was a canoe instructor with a few canoes and pupils all learning from him (see in extras).

Then back into the town.  It was now midday but we decided to head home.  We did stop off at Leven's Kitchen for lunch - Hubby had one of their sandwiches and I had a delicious salad of baked ham, feta, nuts, chicory and other delights.

That's all from me for today.  I hope you are able to enjoy the weather too  I will see you all tomorrow.