Although it is now the least densely populated county in England, Northumberland was once a place of great strategic and political importance, a scene of conflict for saints and bishops, kings and princes, Scots and Vikings. The legacy of history remains, symbolised by the castles and fortresses to be found here. The most spectacular of these dominate its long eastern facing shore; Lindisfarne, Bamburgh, Dunstanburgh, Warkworth and (a little further inland) Alnwick. These would each be worthy of the long journey from the south of Britain. Collectively they are a dream come true for the landscape photographer.

A consequence of being on the eastern (rain shadow) side of northern England’s Pennine hills is that Northumberland enjoys a surprisingly fair climate in our prevailing westerly winds. And the coast is not one of high cliffs; instead the land meets the sea gently in a series of sandy bays, broad beaches and extensive dune systems. The castles have all been built on rare craggy outcrops, forming architectural focal points in a landscape of great openness and space. Each one is unique. Bamburgh, probably the county’s most spectacular fortress, is intact and dominates the picturesque village of the same name.Two, Dunstanburgh and Warkworth, are ruins but this enhances rather than diminishes their photographic appeal.

To the north of Dunstanburgh Castle is Embleton Bay, where giant dunes of apricot coloured sand and black cannon ball sized boulders provide fascinating subjects in themselves, as well as spectacular foregrounds for one of England’s most atmospheric ruins.

Further north, a tidal causeway gives access to Holy Island where we may visit the remains of its beautiful Romanesque priory, as well as enjoying views of the National Trust owned Lindisfarne Castle. There are also numerous opportunities for graphic studies of the ramshackle boathouses and traditional wooden fishing boats.

The workshop is based in the comfortable Victoria Hotel in Bamburgh. This superb location makes shooting dawn and dusk a treat since tremendous viewpoints are within walking distance of the hotel. A few minutes drive to the north are the vast tidal flats of Budle Bay, another incomparable sunrise and sunset location. The Victoria has a justified reputation for good food and the rooms are characterful and comfortable.

Relaxation and social enjoyment is a vital part of any Light & Land holiday and on a Leading Lights workshop provides the time for debate and exchange of ideas on the theory, practice and philosophy of landscape photography (and of course life, the universe and everything!). Participants are invited to bring a print portfolio (of no more than 12 images) with them for feedback and constructive appraisal, and any books or magazines featuring their work, or indeed any other photographers they wish to discuss. David will bring examples of his own work, as well as a small selection of favourite photography books from his library.