114 



stones. From here the party traversed the fields to the De Tabley 

 Arms Hotel where tea was provided ; and after a hearty vote of 

 thanks had been accorded to Mr. Abram for his lucid explana- 

 tions, and kind guidance, the return journey was made, the 

 route being by Hurst Green, and Hodder Bridge. 



GAEGKAVE, ESHTON HALL AND WOODS. 

 JULY 17th, 1886. 



The party went by train to Elslack and walked through the 

 fields to All Saints' Church ; an ancient and interesting struc- 

 ture, evidently much rebuilt, and restored ; and shewing traces 

 of various styles of architecture from the Norman period down 

 to the present time. Crossing the brook below, and passing 

 through rich pasture and meadow lands, characteristic of the 

 Craven District, the party emerged into the high road, presently 

 overshadowed by noble trees. A beautiful glimpse of the stream 

 in the valley below is here obtained. Just before reaching the 

 front of Broughton Hall, the seat of the Tempests, a slight 

 divergence from the road is made, and on the bridge near the 

 Lodge gates is discovered another interesting view of river and 

 woodland scenery. 



Arriving at Eshton Hall which is about half-a-mile beyond 

 Gargrave permission is granted to wander at will through the 

 woods and grounds, which being somewhat extensive occupy the 

 remainder of the afternoon. Eshton Hall, which is magnificently 

 situated, is the seat of Sir Mathew Wilson, Bart. There are large 

 numbers of flowering trees in this district, including horse chest- 

 nut, laburnum, white and purple lilacs, and red and white single 

 and double flowering hawthorns ; which in contrast with the 

 copper and purple beech, and the light green color of our wood- 

 land trees, produce strikingly beautiful effects. These, however, 

 to be seen in their glory should be visited about the middle of 

 June. A bridle path runs all the way through the woods, 

 and at intervals rustic but very elaborate wooden structures are 

 found in the shape of alcoves and summer-houses, wherefrom 

 the sylvan scenes could be enjoyed ; whilst the naturalists of the 

 party lingered on the bridge to watch the black-backed trout, or 

 wandered amongst the flowers where the greedy bees were busily 

 engaged in literally intoxicating themselves with the juices until 

 they fell helplessly to the ground. A tea at Gargrave, and a brisk 

 walk back through the lanes to Elslack when the sun was low ; 

 and the remainder home by train, completed a very enjoyable 

 " short excursion." 



