On my regular jaunts to RHS Gardens at Harlow Carr, I drive through a pretty little village called Leathley, near Otley. I always think I'll stop and explore... and I never do. Well, one day in early November I did, because the sun was shining and bringing out all its beauty. I used my phone to take a picture of the church and the sun promptly disappeared behind a cloud - and then the rain started! So I didn't get far in my exploration.
The building that catches my eye when I drive through is the row of almshouses (above) which have a beautiful view across the Wharfe valley. I've found online a conservation area study, which tells about the history of the area. This has aways been predominantly an agricultural area. It has various links over the years to nearby Farnley Hall (see HERE). The almshouses date back to 1769, when a school house (the two-storey bit in the middle) and four almshouses were built in memory of Henry Hitch, the lord of the manor, to care for the poor of the parish and to educate the children.
The church of St Oswald sits proudly on a hillock. It originally dates back to the 1100s with additions in the 1470s and Victorian renovations. The beautiful carved cross is a war memorial.
(Note to self: make sure you take a proper walk in this area next Spring! There seems to be lots more to discover.)
The names of places there have a lot if creative charm. Otley sounds happy and bright.
ReplyDeleteIt looks like a fine area, Jenny!
ReplyDeleteI've got a list of places I intend to visit more fully "one day". Look forward to learning more about the area.
ReplyDeleteI do like the architecture here.
ReplyDeleteI like the image of the church and cross in the foreground.
ReplyDelete