Sunday 29 August 2010

Somerset Cycle Tour 1

At last some photos from my cycle trip in July! I had a super time visiting friends and relations (you know who you are - thanks for everything!) and I also had time to look at flowers, butterflies and the wonderful views.


The bike (Edinburgh Bicycle Co-operative Revolution Trailfinder) on the train to Birmingham. One of the huge varieties of cycle accomodation I encountered this summer... though I've a suspicion that this may actually be designed for wheelchairs.

The view from the road above Wookey Hole, where there is a lovely campsite.


This road takes you up onto the Mendips, where I had a great time identifying flowers and galls, and met this character, a Marbled White:


Later on, in Ebbor Gorge, I was excited to see two Silver-washed Fritillaries dancing about above the brambles. This is one of them.


I also came across this!


More animals which aren't what they seem at RSPB Westhay on the Somerset Levels - it's an otter carved out of a log.


Over on the Blackdown Hills (and actually in Devon) is Culmstock Beacon, with great views over to Exmoor across the Vale of Taunton Dean.


I came across this odd creature - it's a female Scorpion Fly.


And this is just one of many Gatekeeper butterflies which were fluttering about the gorse and hedgerows.


Similar but definitely different, a Speckled Wood.


Back on the Mendips, this is the viw from Crook Peak.


This was a great place for wildlife, with limestone flora including some real rarities (which I was unlikely to find on a short walk onto one of the most well-used areas). However it was nice to get this shot of a Common Blue.


And this of a Common Hawker dragonfly. Coming down the hill later, I saw a group of 10 or so dragonflies, all hawking together. What a wonderful sight.


That was just a few of the sights which made this such an interesting trip. Next post will have some photos of churches and the wildlife they harbour!

Tuesday 17 August 2010

On Me Bike has been on her bike...

...which is why I've not been posting. First 10 days in Somerset and Devon visiting friends and relations (super to see you all!) and then 10 days doing my version of the Cumbria Cycleway. I'll post some photos and comments at the weekend.
First though I'll be starting my new job!