Worsley: Salford’s oasis

October 17, 2021October 17, 2021 / mikeosbornphoto / Leave a comment

The twin cities of Manchester and Salford are developed, densely populated urban centres.

But on the very edge of Salford you will come across Worsley, a pleasant surprise with English village vibes. It’s just a 30-minute bus ride from the centre of Manchester where I live.

With its Tudor-style houses, caramel-coloured waterways and tranquil, unspoilt woodlands, Worsley feels a world away from the grittier parts of Salford.

The nearby M60 motorway may spoil the illusion, but this is a Greater Manchester village that’s a pleasure to wander around.

Tap/click first image for gallery view

Humber Bridge

September 19, 2021September 16, 2021 / mikeosbornphoto / 2 Comments

The Humber Bridge, which connects East Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, is the UK’s longest single-span suspension bridge. It’s a man-made thing of beauty and wonder.

I was lucky enough to visit on a little staycation to the nearby city of Hull. You can trudge along the Humber shore for fantastic views, even walk underneath this colossal but graceful structure.

It was a quick pitstop graced by wonderful skies. I’m told the bridge looks different every time – a reason to return with my camera!

Tap/click first image for gallery view

Hull: City of contrasts

August 22, 2021September 20, 2021 / mikeosbornphoto / 2 Comments

In this age of staycations, I left Manchester for a few days and crossed northern England to visit the East Yorkshire city of Hull. CONTINUES BELOW

Tap/click first image for gallery view

Hull sits on the Humber estuary and has an interesting mix of grand civic buildings, industrial facilities and modern architecture.

The city has suffered from a shady reputation over the years but I found it both impressive and having plenty worthy of exploration.

The marina area has been extensively restored and Humber Street is an excellent spot for eating out. And with its independent telephone company, Hull is famed for its cream phone boxes.

The city also has a rural and coastal hinterland to visit – more on that in future posts.

Shugborough: A photographer’s paradise

July 25, 2021July 25, 2021 / mikeosbornphoto / 8 Comments

A true getaway from Manchester, with a 90-minute drive to the rolling countryside of Staffordshire and a magnificent country estate.

Shugborough was the home of famous royal and society photographer Lord Patrick Lichfield, until his death in 2005.

This connection added an extra dimension to a day out exploring and photographing the vast estate, including its beautiful walled garden, fabulous follies and lavish interiors of the big house.

It was an absolute pleasure on a summer’s day. You should visit if you get the chance.

Tap/click first image for gallery view

Manchester moments

June 20, 2021June 19, 2021 / mikeosbornphoto / 8 Comments

Here’s a gallery of recent moments here in Manchester, from walks, passing the time of day and appreciating this vibrant city.

On a warm summer’s morning I laid down in the shadow of Deansgate Square, our tallest buildings.

There was a dusk walk along the Manchester Ship Canal when the sky was dramatic and reflections pristine. A stunning, vibrant sunset and capturing a city centre robin complete the set.

Do you think the best things in life are free?