Saturday 22nd October

Once again, today dawned grey and (initially at least) wet. So, where to go today? We decided to head to the Raggart, in hope of some autumn colour. On arriving there, we discovered a lot of cars and no parking spaces so headed to the Arboretum at St Johns instead.

We started wandering around the grounds, after bypassing the many ducks who thought we might have food - the lake was deserted as they were all on the path near the gate

As we carried on along the path, there were occasional splashes of colour to be seen

We wandered up towards the M&S shelter and, despite the grey and uninspiring sky, did take a few pictures, looking towards Tynwald church

As we walked back down the track, more colour and a cherry tree that still had fruit on

Back near the lake, I spotted a number of pampas plants - a spot of sunshine would have been nice but, none appeared so had a play in photoshop instead

As I left the pampas, I noticed Dave taking a picture of the leaves in the water, with the reflections of the trees showing behind. It looked quite good so, I thought I'd have a go

So, we left the Arboretum and headed south. Next stop - Niarbyl. On arrival, it was wild and windy. The sea was crashing dramatically on the rocks but unfortunately, was too far out for any decent seascape shots. Still, always nice to visit and a moody sky as well.

As I wasn't getting any dramatic sea shots, I turned my attention to the cottages. I know they've been done a thousand times before so, just one of a cottage

Then a few of the stones helping to hold the thatch on - one normal and one photoshopped

As we were so close, we decided to take a walk around the Glen Maye area. We parked by The Waterfall and headed downhill on the road and onto the Postman's Path.

Part way along, we stopped at some picnic benches for lunch, then carried on up towards the mines. The path was quite wet at times but, not muddy as it is tarmac. Plenty of autumn leaves and a couple of other walkers.

We finally came out by Beckwiths Mine - the photo is straight, it's the tower that's crooked

We carried on towards Snuff the Wind - no pictures from here as there were bikes riding over the waste ground to the side

So now, all that remained was to walk back down to the car. As we looked at the road ahead, I wondered how I could have forgotten that it went down and then up! I'd been looking towards a nice gentle stroll back. Still, it wasn't too bad and it did stay dry

If you look very carefully, you can see Snuff the Wind in the distance. So, we headed home, hoping for better weather next week.