I wrote a letter to my amazing Chi after one of my National Trust Group expeditions. This context is necessary so you don’t fall in love with me 😂. The excitement is strictly for Chi alone.

24-03-2026

Edima the Explorer: Walking group,  Wuthering Height, Whimsical day!                        

Hi Chi, 

I decided to do a photo diary of my day for you. Thank you for asking. I hope you enjoy reading.

Today I went to East Riddlesden Hall, where Wuthering Height by Emily Brontë was filmed. I’m so giddy that I can’t wait to tell you all of it but first, let’s begin where it began.

When I learnt that I would not be able to travel internationally with you (something I had excitedly looked forward to) due to (…redacted), I started looking for alternatives to have a wonderful annual leave because misery loves company but I no dey house. The Lord has made me a joyful, happy soul and giving into the darkness of grief and self-pity would be sinful. 

I got a last minute train ticket, a national trust membership card and headed to a village I’d never been and  walked with people I’ve never met in Keighley. I woke at 7am, as excited as I was worried. Going on a group hike with a bunch of random strangers into the woods left an uncomfortable feeling in my chest. But the joys of a nature walk superseded the desire for isolation and “self preservation”, so I laid my gear out, took a bath. Had a quiet rich moment of prayer and hymn and headed to Castleford train station. 

After slathering sunscreens and inhaling my breakfast , I caught the 08:31 train to Leeds and onwards to Keighley. I walked another 25 minutes and got to East Riddlesden hall and arrived 20 minutes early.

I had a bit of time to look around and take in the absolute wonder of God’s creation. I stood in awe at the artistry of God and was lost for words. Look at the beauty I got the privilege to witness. The white was glowing in the sun.

There are really no words to describe how I felt. Really, no words.

The National trust designated walk leader called me to the group. We were about 7 and like in other outdoor group activities, I was the only negro. Another notable fact was everyone was well over 65. So I infact,  was the grandbaby of the group.

I was so reluctant at first but they actively involved me in conversations and as someone who is great at small talks, we had good conversations and it flowed very naturally. I leaned into my strengths by talking about bird species and my absolute favourites were the Mallards with their gorgeous green crowns.

The walk started along the Liverpool-Leeds canal. It’s an hour’s cycle to Leeds and same distance  to Liverpool. The walk leader recommended other spots for me to hike and bird watch. I’ll save them here; Fairburn inns, St Aidan’s and Marsden Moor. They took turns to walk with me on the narrow path and were absolutely lovely to hike with. 

The Walk Leader gave me his walking poles and was so kind to mention that I could give him back when I did not need it. 

At the top of the hill, I looked down over the village and despite the clouds, I loved my view. A wide expanse of pasture, the meadow stretched miles and miles as far as the eyes could see. It was breathtakingly beautiful and refreshing!

I wanted to take thousands of photos and even ask someone to take a photo of me but as a newbie in this company, walking etiquette demands I do not inconvenience anyone so I took this selfie.

I limited my phone use but we walked and talked and walked and climbed stones and saw free range chickens and sheep and rabbits and cottages and homesteads and beauty so vast that I spent a moment to thank God for creation. 

At the highest peak, this was my view and oh, how I loved it! The couple I walked with said the summer view on a sunny day is straight out of a post card!

I promised them I’d be back when the magnolias were in full bloom and shortly after, guess what I saw with my two koro koro eyes? Budding magnolias.🤭

There was no lack of excitement for the eyes and mind. Through narrow paths and steep cobblestones, the conversation held us closer and the oral history passed down from the local couple was worth the price of my return ticket and even more, I dare say. 

The descent was easy and gentle on the knees and ankles. We got back to the National trust site and I asked the walk leader for a quick photo and here’s the best he could do.

East Riddlesden owes me nothing and just as I was getting ready to leave. I stumbled on the information that Wuthering Height was filmed in the main building and oh my…🤭. Of course , I indulged.

Here’s a photo story.

It was a sign of immense wealth to own a separate room for cooking. This building was owned by the Baileys in 1600s and acquired by national trust in 1938. Fun fact; they documented clearly the inventory of the house in details so much that even after 300 years, national trust was able to track down and replace the furniture with similar items.

The hearth. Family conversations often revolved around here. I can imagine them huddling together to keep warm.  While speaking KJV English. “thou knowest that thou art removed mine blankets from mine shins”😂

They really paid attention to the intricate details and loved the fine things of life. This was the washroom beside the bedroom. 

About to leave, I realised that other patrons looked regal in wool coats and leather boots and there I was in murky sport shoes and a hiking jacket. To say I is embarrassed was an understatement , this was my chance to see Wuthering Height scenes brought to life so I grabbed it and there are zero regrets. I took one last photo and headed home at about 1pm. 

Bonus info; I missed the train from Leeds to Castleford because I got on the wrong one to Wakefield. Every step was worth the effort.

I’ve had such a pleasant day. A lot better than I’d hope for.