What does escapism mean to you?
To me, it's being away from the bustle of daily patterns and responsibilities, immersing myself in a place.
On a global scale, I haven't travelled that widely. I haven't basked is awe of Patagonia or British Columbia, felt the heat of Africa or humidity of Asia. We did though in 2019, spend a magical couple of weeks cruising round California in a red Jeep Wrangler. I've never felt so cool! From San Francisco to Los Angeles. Heading into majestic Yosemite Valley, drinking in that windswept Pacific west coast down Route One.
On many levels California has always held strong appeal, not least as the 'birthplace' of mountain biking, it's home to beautiful light, delicious craft beers and a variety of action sports (and cultures) that resonate with me. To me this place is the epitome of cool.
On 19 March 2020 we were due to fly to New Zealand, a once in a lifetime trip. As the pandemic made its presence felt and borders began to shut, it became increasingly obvious the trip would be off. We worked out we could have got as far as Dubai before we'd have been turned back to the UK. Alas, we have never made the trip.
Gutting but, the pandemic did bring opportunities. With that intentional slowing down and clipped wings came unprecedented appreciation of what was closer to home. The prospect of short walks locally were a gift, all the escapism I could want. I've never noticed and appreciated the seasonal change in such detail as I did that year. Bird song, colour, smells, the senses heightened to everything.
As we emerged from lockdown, my passport had expired. I had no intention of renewing it. Not only was the prospect of sitting on a germ filled plane less than appetising, the growing appreciation of what was around us, had us curious to explore more of the British Isles. And so, to this day, escapism since 2019 has been within these shores. Multiple trips to Scotland, with its breathtaking Highlands, Islands and forest. The rugged and varied landscape of Wales, the lowlands of Eastern England and chalky South-East corner. It's been a pleasure.
During these adventures, we've sought out places to stay which support our idea of escapism. Usually pared back, low key, simplicity. Glen Dye, One Cat Farm, Hinterlandes, Wilderkin and Winyard Rocks to name a few.
I've found increasing joy from documenting our stays. Finding satisfaction and appreciation of small and thoughtful details. These places have soul and to that extent their essence is easy to convey. As my young business develops this has become an area of photography I'm passionate to pursue and develop as a core strand of my work.
In this vein and in the spirit of keeping things local, I've begun working with Andrew and Lesley Beale, owners of Gumboots and Wellingtons in the North York Moors National Park.
During 2024 I've spent time capturing the essence of this fabulous place, some of the images can be found here. It's exciting to be working alongside another youthful Yorkshire business with likeminded people.
The cabins at Gumboots & Wellingtons have been lovingly hand built by Andrew, Lesley and their family. As with other places we've stayed, it goes without saying there is a high degree of attention to detail and thought woven into this place. It's a place with strong family ties for Andrew and Lesley and to that degree, how the accommodation contributes and compliments the valley really matters to them. Nestled into the hillside of a beautiful remote spot in the moors, with Yorkshire's Great Forest on the door step, a stay here completely meets with my idea of escapism.
Why not see if it meets with yours?
