Farleton Knott is a small limestone crag beautifully situated near the border between Lancashire, Yorkshire and Cumbria, in North-west England. I’ve been coming here for years to wander and think; to sketch and paint; to photograph the landscape, and to simply ‘be’. I am yet to visit anywhere else that can capture the imagination quite as much as this place, and it continues to draw me back again and again.  There are many similar limestone landscapes within a stone’s throw from my home in Lancashire, and I have come to know them all, but this one is my favourite.

I park in a lay-by on a single track lane, climb the style, and stride out across the farmland that surrounds the Knott, usually occupied by a small flock of sheep.  The ground slopes gradually upwards towards a modest limestone cliff, and before long the terrain becomes more rugged. Rocky limestone pavements abound, exposed to the elements, with small trees and shrubs scattered randomly across them. It seems incredible that they grow here, from the gaps between the rocks, reaching eastwards, blown by the wind. Lumps of rock stand on the pavement; known as erratics, debris left behind by glaciers. All of it an amazing feast for the eyes. I get the sense of being miles from anywhere; even though the motorway and a scattering of towns and villages are situated in the valley below.

I feel a special bond with this place, an emotional response that is difficult to put into words. I have made a great deal of work as the result of my experiences here and always carry a sketchbook and camera. I have even brought large canvasses up here and painted barefoot on the rocks. An experience I’d love to repeat again soon.

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All images copyright © 2012-2015, Debbie Yare, All rights reserved

8 Responses

  1. Wonderful commentary accompanied by fascinating sketches and oil work. The tenacity of nature always leaves me amazed. I’m delighted to see you still discovering and rediscovering the natural wonders of your corner of this beautiful world. Carry on

  2. Debbie,

    Good day to you! I and others are really enjoying your adventure in Australia and how this marvel we call the Internet allows us in nanoseconds to traverse the globe and explore each others space. Best wishes to you in your explorations. Additionally I have been enjoying your postings here on your blog. Aside from your paintings, sketches and certainly photography you have a wonderful ability to bring others into your travels with your narratives. Have you ever considered branching out into publishing a book? I’m certain your present endeavors take up a tremendous amount of time but you truly have a wonderful literary gift.

    Well I’m off again to stretch my legs…easy for me in that I can only go East, North, or South *S*.

    Regards,
    Bill

    1. Hiya Bill 🙂

      How are you doing? Its true indeed that the internet has made the world much smaller, and that it is a real joy to see new places through the eyes of others. Its funny, I’ve just replied to another, similar message, so I’m both surprised and amazed to read your lovely comments. To answer your question, I had considered self publishing a book of photographic works at some point, but hadn’t really considered writing too much. I don’t see myself as much of a writer, Bill, and writing for the blog doesn’t come very easily to me. But I will give it some thought, and its really encouraging and lovely to read your kind words, and know that you and others are enjoying following my progress. Thank you so much!

      Keep enjoying your walks and travels, Bill… and I will too 🙂
      All the best,
      Debbie 🙂

  3. A very special place that must be a joy to paint, draw and photograph, Debbie. It’s great you have a close bond with this location, it really shows in your art. Painting on a large canvas at Farleton Knott sounds a lot of fun. I’ve never visited a limestone pavement but hope to in the near future along with a camera. I agree with Bill, your narratives are captivating.
    All the best, Simon.

    1. Thank you so much Simon and thanks for visiting. I think you might like Mallam Cove and Gordale Scar over in Yorkshire. Such dramatic landscapes for black and white photography! I’ll look out for some limestone landscapes on your flickr page or blog 🙂 Thanks again Simon, Regards, Debbie

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