HFF 1 July 2022

HAPPY (Rope) FENCE FRIDAY

BRIDGEWATER MONUMENT

This monument is close to the Ashridge Estate Visitor Centre in Hertfordshire. It was built in 1832 in memory of the third Duke of Bridgewater who once lived in Ashridge house. The Duke was 'the father of inland navigation' because he became famous for building canals during the Industrial Revolution.

There are 172 steps to the top and you are rewarded with beautiful views of Ashridge, the rolling Chilterns countryside, Waddesdon Manor and Wendover Woods in the distance. On sunny days it can be possible to see Canary Wharf in central London, over 30 miles away.

I took this shot in November 2021 but visitors were not allowed to climb the stairs due to Covid restrictions. Before Covid I did, on one occasion, climb to the top. It was tough going but okay if you took things steady. The only problem was when meeting peoples going in the opposite direction! Passing each other was quite a challenge :-)

Maybe view on black, please :-)