The Roaches

Another visit to The Roaches, the extensive area of gritstone crags in Staffordshire, just north of Leek. It won’t be the last. Although only (for me) a sunrise/sunset location, there are so many beautiful shapes around that it really will repay many visits. I don’t think this latest shoot did it full justice but I hope you enjoy this small selection.

Nantmor autumn

We did a walk in Snowdonia a few days ago starting from Nantmor, near Beddgelert. The terrain is wonderful, with rocks, heather, grass, bracken, and great views to Snowdon. Or at least, Snowdon in the clouds. The lovely autumn textures made up for the lack of mountain top views. The lake you can see is Llyn Dinas.

The Roaches

The Roaches is an area of gritstone crags just north of Leek in Staffordshire. It’s a famous rock climbing area with many classic climbs. It’s also got some highly photogenic shapes and a wonderful outlook to the south and west.

Autumn in Aberglaslyn Gorge

After a good trip the week before, I took another trip to Beddgelert in North Wales to capture the Aberglaslyn Gorge with its autumn coat on. It may not be the last time, as peak colour is still to come.

Snowdon sideways

My last post was Snowdon from the back way, this day was about approaching it from the side. A little-used ascent route, not surprisingly because it was horrible (more later), then the great Crib Goch north and east ridges and the horseshoe route to Snowdon summit.

Snowdon by the back way

Mynydd Mawr rears above the hamlet of Rhyd Ddu with a steam train just about to arrive in the station on picture left.

• www.plotaroute.com/route/507006
• 8.6 miles
• 950 metres ascent

This route is a less popular way to top out on Snowdon, with some nice airy ridge walking near the top and plenty of squelchy bog trotting towards the end. Views are, as usual on Snowdon, either tremendous when clear or non-existent when the clouds come down.

Autumn arrives in Wales – the Aberglaslyn Gorge

While I was on holiday in Crete for two weeks, in 30+ degree sunshine, autumn arrived in Snowdonia. It seems early this year but I probably think that every year. There’s certainly plenty of colour to be had. The day was slightly overcast, good for going to water and woods. I went to the Aberglaslyn Gorge, next to Beddgelert. A spectacular sight any time of year but a prime spot for autumn with a great mix of trees and rushing river.