Sunday we travelled to Cramlington to visit Northumberlandia. You know, the largest sculpture of the female form, made from colliery spoil heaps, known to the wits as Slag Alice. Yes her. She really is a striking sight and there were plenty of people to admire her. We walked up her arms to her 'third eye', across her chest, paused at her hips and knees before walking all round her. It is only a matter of time before they are doing meditation walks round here, you mark my words. What a landmark to imagination and creativity! And from her forehead you can see Penshaw Monument and possibly the Angel of the North.
Next up was Gibside on Tuesday. We didn't do the skyline walk, but instead followed the riverside walk which first climbs up a one side of a dene, then back down to the Derwent. At the top, surrounded by trees and sheltered in the bright sunshine, it was beautifully warm and so so quiet. At the riverbank the evidence of recent flood water was there to see but on this day it was a calm and gentle river running past. It again makes me wonder why I don't come here more often, we are so lucky to have such a beautiful place on our doorstep.
We also slotted in small walks e.g. round the Angel of the North; along Shields beach; round Roker Park to admire the lights show; round West Park in Shields. There's so much more incentive to walk in company.
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| On Northumberlandia |
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| River Derwent at Gibside |
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| Orangery at Gibside |
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