Lytham Hall

Situated in a pretty Lancashire town Lytham Hall is a Grade 1 listed historic Georgian mansion with a relatively small, easily accessible broadleaved woodland.

This is not a formal guided walk, but rather I will suggest places to visit within the grounds.

Our main focus will be the 78 acres of parkland, a mix of deciduous woodland, open grassland, pools and a formal garden. Within the woodland are well made paths giving access to woodland clearings with opportunities to capture intimate vistas, closeups of plants and fungi, images of birds, insects and occasional mammal life. The woods are lovely at all times of year from snowdrops in winter, through April bluebells, to summer shade and by mid October autumn colours are beginning to dominate.

Please dress for the weather, particularly you should bring good walking boots or wellingtons as autumn weather will make the ground soft and slippery. Waterproof trousers would be a useful addition and gaiters for those wearing walking boots. If you are anxious about slipping then walking poles might be helpful too. Be aware that the ponds are unfenced and though lifebelts are in place care should be taken near open areas of water.

We will take a break for lunch in the café, though if you prefer you may picnic outside. Participants may wish to consider a tour of the hall particularly if the weather is unkind and details are provided on the hall's website. I have obtained permissions for us to photograph as a group in the parkland but not in the house. Photography is permitted inside, but arrangements for tours must be on an individual basis.

Facilities include a café, toilets and parking including facilities for disabled visitors. Parking charges range from a minimum of £1.50 for 2 hours rising in 50p increments to £3.50 for six hours on a pay and display basis.

The range of photographic equipment you bring is a personal choice, but apart from cameras and lenses, a tripod is an essential. You may wish to bring binoculars as bird watching opportunities are good. Ensure that any bag you carry is waterproof and if appropriate bring covers for lenses and camera. A bin bag or ground sheet for getting down on the ground is a good addition to your bag.