Geography influences how we live - in the most wonderful ways. This is definitely the case in the Lake District where slate is available in abundance. You can see it everywhere in the design and construction of buildings new and old. Look at the detail -- the corners, window and chimneys.
The clock tower in Ambleside.
These were originally miners cottages (near Rydel Water).
Bridge on Loughrigg Fell Walk
The Bridgehouse in Ambleside.
Loughrigg Fell Pyke
Notice how the slate is woven where the two roofs meet
Ambleside Parish Centre
Images via Solo Traveler
An unforgettable trip – A narrow boat trip on the Llangollen Canal
Most people might prefer the Norfolk Broads with its lovely villages. More scenic and exciting but also with more work though is a trip through the Midlands crossing the Penines or using the canal leading into Wales. My favourite is the Llangollen Canal. 
You pass many scenic little villages and towns and you do a long climb with the help of locks through the hills with your boat. The canal leads you through tunnels and on aqueducts across valleys into Wales and finally to Llangollen. 
You cannot do a circle but have to go back the same way you came. But despite this fact you will not find it boring because with clever cruise planning you stop at different places and therefore have always something new to explore. And the view going back is new to you and you feel as if you come along the area for the first time. 
This solo travel post first appeared on Solo Traveler, the blog for those who love and those who long to travel alone. Why not visit the blog and join the Solo Travel Society on Facebook. Photos via Solo Traveler .
