Open Gates Outdoors

In 2008 I was invited to submit an article to the Sheffield Telegraph identifying my favourite things about Sheffield. It's interesting for me to re read the article 15 years later and reflect on whether any of my selections have changed in that time. Here are some of the highlights of my article. Views My favourite view of all is from the Ox Stones, above Ringinlow. You can see Lincoln cathedral to the East and tantalising views of the Peak District to the West, which is a trove of happy memories of pottering with my family or running with friends. The view is better if you are brave enough to climb on top of the Ox Stones. Be careful though because getting down is harder than getting up!  Modern Architecture I love the juxtaposition between Sheffield's hills and its modern architecture. The straight lines and angles of the buildings that are much maligned give them beauty as they stand defiant against the slopes.  My favourite buildings are the Arts Tower, the Royal Hallamsh...

Yesterday while I was at an event at Duke’s Cafe in Norfolk Park I came across this map of Sheffield’s urban green spaces. Open Gates Outdoors is passionate about exploring Sheffield’s urban green spaces as well as its beautiful frame. This map got me thinking about what is my favourite urban green space in Sheffield and which urban green spaces on the map have I not been to and would I most like to explore.  If I had to pick a favourite urban green space it would be Rollastone Wood in Meersbrook because it’s convenient for my house, so quiet, its a gorge with big slopey paths and it links so well to Carr Woods and also the Moss Valley beyond. The urban green space I haven’t yet been to and am most keen to experience is perhaps Loxley and Wadsley Common. I had a lovely walk in Loxley Valley recently appreciating its awesome crags and I want to explore the Common with its trig point and it’s links to the Bradfield area to put the Loxley Valley into more context. What is your favouri...

Recently I’ve come across some collective nouns for birds. We’ve all heard of a murmuration of starlings but what about these an exultation of Skylarks a charm of Goldfinches  a clattering of Jackdaws, and (best of all) a blush of Robbins Feel free to make me smile by adding a comment with any others you know! George Open Gates Outdoors