Michael Dutson Landscape Photography

MICHAEL DUTSON

LANDSCAPE  PHOTOGRAPHY

West Pennine Moors Series

The West Pennine Moors; a sprawling expanse of natural wonder nestled within Lancashire’s rugged embrace, are a testament to the untamed beauty of the British countryside. This untamed landscape, with its undulating moorland, windswept hills, and tranquil reservoirs, casts an enchanting spell on those who venture into its heart. Here, the heather-clad hills stretch as far as the eye can see, a purple-hued carpet that blankets the land, painting the moors with a mesmerizing, ever-changing palette. In the spring, the hills come alive with the vibrant colours of wildflowers, as nature awakens from its winter slumber. The West Pennine Moors are a timeless landscape where the passage of centuries can be traced in the rugged stone walls and weathered paths that crisscross the terrain.

As the sun dips below the horizon, casting long shadows over the land, the moors reveal a mystical side. A hush falls over the landscape, broken only by the call of distant birds and the rustling of heather in the breeze. The moors seem to hold secrets as if the very earth beneath one’s feet whispers tales of ancient civilizations and the hardships of generations past.  But it’s not just the land that captivates the senses. The West Pennine Moors are also a sanctuary for wildlife. Curlews and lapwings dance gracefully across the skies, while red grouse and mountain hares find refuge in the heather. It’s a place where nature flourishes in its raw and unadulterated form, offering a haven for those who seek solace in the wild.

Tranquil reservoirs dot the landscape, their still waters reflecting the ever-changing moods of the moors. These reservoirs not only serve as vital sources of water but also as serene oases, where visitors can pause to admire the beauty of the surroundings, the tranquility only broken by the occasional ripple on the water’s surface.  Throughout the year, the West Pennine Moors beckon those who yearn for adventure and connection with the natural world. Whether it’s hiking along the old pack-horse trails that crisscross the terrain, picnicking beside a glistening reservoir, or simply pausing to breathe in the fresh moorland air, this Lancashire gem offers a timeless escape from the modern world.

In the West Pennine Moors, Lancashire’s natural beauty reigns supreme, a testament to the enduring allure of the British countryside. It is a place where the past and present converge, where the wild spirit of nature whispers its tales, and where the soul finds solace in the untamed embrace of the moors. It’s a place that I am also fortunate to call home.