Cragside, a photo from Northumberland, England

Photographer's Note

Hello everyone,a view of a house on a hill.....this is Cragside near Rothbury in Northumberland.

Now owned by the National Trust,Cragside was built over the period 1870-1885,and included many extensions, improvements and upgrading during this time.

It was the home of Lord Armstrong.He was an innovator who created his wealth from ordnance and heavy engineering industry.The engineering was concentrated on mechantile and hydraulics.

The house was built on a rocky crag high above the Debdon Burn.It was the first house in the world to be lit by hydroelectricity.
Surrounding the house on all sides is one of the largest 'hand made' rock gardens in Europe.

This view is taken from the Burn looking up the hill towards the house.The bridge crossed the river [now no longer safe for anyone to use,] and joined the two sides of the valley, so that the landscaped gardens on the opposite side from the house could be reached.

The day that we visited it was a very unsettled day with frequent heavy showers, hence the rather grey sky.

Thanks for looking, your comments are always welcomed.

stego, dareco, nels has marked this note useful

Critiques | Translate

stego (24132) 2008-08-28 3:40

Hi Jean,
To my Southern eyes, it's hard to believe that it was shot in July, as it reminds Winter, but after all, England isn't famous for its sun. That doesn't mean that it isn't a very beautiful view, with the palace very well placed in the image, nicely framed by the bridge and trees.
I am not sure if the bridge apparent inclination doesn't damage the overall balance a bit, but I also don't see how that could be avoided. Another POV maybe, but I like that pine tree on the right very much to extract it.
Regards, José.

dareco (17136) 2008-08-28 6:53

This looks like something from a story book. I like the architecture, and the bridge is beautiful. Very nice pov, colors and detail. TFS and have a happy day!

nels (2623) 2008-08-28 11:25

hello jean, nice captuire of a famous building,the house and gardens are as you say something not to miss. The only thing wrong is that you can not walk on that bridge, i bet the view of the house would be great from the middle of the bridge
adrian

tabora (0) 2008-09-04 5:00

Bonjour Jean,
Cela pourrait être un manoir pour un film de Hitchcok, il semble être erigé pour être isolé du monde, seul le pont le relie a la réalité,je le vois bien photographié par temps de brouillard.
L'angle de prise de vue semble faire penché le pont.(illusion d'optique)
A+ Joseph

lightsensor (757) 2008-09-18 16:10

hi, Jean,
thanks for the detail information of this historical house. the environment is greenly, i think it is the best place to spend summer season! good works and keep them coming!

J-P,

joscel1975 (489) 2008-10-04 23:55

Hi Jean:

I love the angling you took on this picture. It gives a good focus to the bridge while considering the important background which is the castle. Good job.

Josh