Summer day in St Ives, Cambridgeshire on the river Great Ouse

A Perfect Summer Day on the River in St Ives

Last Saturday was a picture-perfect summer day, and I decided to spend it on the river in St Ives. The weather was warm with a gentle breeze, making it ideal for a relaxing boat ride. As I glided along the water, the beauty of the local wildlife was captivating. I spotted Great Crested Grebes with their adorable chicks, Swans gracefully swimming with their cygnets, and busy little Coots darting across the surface. It was a wonderful reminder of how vibrant and alive our local ecosystem is during the summer.

Adding to the day's excitement was the 2024 St Ives Rowing Club competition. The atmosphere was buzzing with energy as rowers from various clubs competed in the annual event. Spectators lined the banks, cheering enthusiastically for their favourite teams.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the water and the meadow, I reflected on what a delightful day it had been. The combination of peaceful moments observing the water birds and the thrill of the rowing competition made for a truly memorable Saturday.

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Wicken Fen Sunday walk

Wicken Fen Nature Reserve, National Trust is a hidden gem in Cambridgeshire, UK, offering a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This vast area has some magnificent nature to enjoy. Last Sunday evening, I decided to unwind and reconnect with nature by taking a leisurely walk through this serene sanctuary, camera in hand.

As I entered the reserve, the soft golden rays of the setting sun bathed the landscape in a warm glow. The picturesque boardwalks and well-maintained trails made it easy to explore the diverse ecosystems that Wicken Fen has to offer.

One of the highlights of my walk was the chance to capture the rich biodiversity on camera. The reserve is a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts, with reedbeds, ponds, and grasslands teeming with life. I snapped pictures of elegant Swans gliding across the water, Greylag Geese, Konik ponies and Highland Cattle.

The peaceful ambiance and the gentle rustling of reeds in the breeze made for a tranquil evening. I spotted families and fellow nature enthusiasts enjoying the same natural beauty, and we exchanged smiles as we shared the experience.

Wicken Fen Nature Reserve is a reminder that you don't need to travel far to find solace in nature. It's a perfect place for a Sunday evening walk, offering a simple yet enriching escape from the everyday hustle, and a chance to capture the beauty of the natural world with your camera.

Greylag Geese flying away to the sunset at Wicken Fen Nature Reserve.