Stayed a few nights in Ilkley – a spa town in Yorkshire. A good base for the dales to the north and the industrial cities just to the South. Enoyed the town and the moor of course. Some good places to eat with a variety of cuisines. Trip outline followed by a gallery of selectable images underneath
First call on this trip was Fountains Abbey. Good for a coffee and a very peaceful walk, having been before we knew our way around. Joe Cornish Landscapes exhibition was a bonus. From here it was onto lunch at Pateley Bridge. Then across the moors to Ilkley. Sign in to hotel, walk around the spa town looking for places to eat. We like to try small, independent and different. Spoilt for choice – except on Mondays !
Day 2 started with a walk around (and coffee) in Otley. Then a drive down to Saltaire and a visit to Salts Mill. We’d been before but only briefly. This second visit was much better. We had time to be awed by the David Hockney exhibition, have lunch and look in the designer shops. Quick walk round the village before we went off to Five rise locks. Fascination and wonder again as we watched a barge go down through the locks. Portugeuse cuisine, custard tart & Port for afters.
Day 3 again started with a walk. Ilkley Moor, up to the cow and calf and a wander around on the top. Impressive views and bird life abundant. Then it was on to Skipton. A look around the castle which is worth a visit. Then into the town for lunch and a walk around throught the castle woods. Monday night choice of eatery limited by closure of the independents. Bistrot Pierre best of the chains was selected.
Day 4. Time to set off home. Managed a couple of drop ins on the way. Harrogate for coffeee and a wander, including a stop to look at 3 piece suites. The off to Mount Grace Priory for a picnic and look around. Small but worth a visit especially with the good weather. Home for a rest.
Gallery. Click for a larger view.
Been & Seen 