I thought we’d only managed one ‘walk’ through the lanes this month, and that one a cycle at the start of the month as we headed over to the Allotment Open Day over at Elston, so it was a nice surprise to find another set of photos from later in the month. Though this was on our walk to the pub to watch the England semi-final against Argentina in the World Cup, which didn’t turn out the way any of us there watching wanted, but hey ho.

Let’s start at the beginning of the month with that cycle, and a stop at the bridge for our usual view.

The view from the bridge on Moor Lane, July 2026

Peering over the bridge on Moor Lane to see the water below

As these first photos were on our way to the Open Day at the allotments in Elston, I thought I’d share a few from there too. I was quite taken with the whole site, but the polytunnels especially, particularly the two shown here. The central layout with side borders was ingenious, and very different to the usual greenhouse layout - and the second photo, for the melons - I’m sure there were larger ones in there somewhere too.

Inside a polytunnel, Elston Allotments open day

Another polytunnel, this one with melons

There was plenty on show on the plot, both flowers, veg and fruit - and while I was tempted to put my name down, I knew that really I’d have plenty enough to keep me busy with my own garden.

Blackberries growing alongside a painted shed

Our second walk of the month we headed out on foot in the same direction, but veering off after the bridge over the A46 to the bridle path and the pub.

Cowslips growing alongside the crash barrier heading over the A46

Wild blackberries on the side of the road

There was plenty to see, especially those being constrained or climbing over the crash barriers. It was already the middle of the month, and about a month since we’d last had rain. The fields were looking dry already and harvest, like many places around us, started much earlier than usual.

Looking across the dry yellow fields as we headed down Moor Lane

As you can see the sun was out, and we were full of optimism (and dread) for the match ahead. The pub was busy, and had some extra screens outside for an extended viewing area. The atmosphere was good, especially as England scored first - but that’s when the fear kicked in, and that’s just for us spectating! Alas, though it was not to be, not this time anyway, maybe next time, who knows?

On the bridle path to Elston with the sun in the distance and fluff on the plant/weed

Thanks for joining me for this update, if you enjoyed this post you may also like to see all of the posts in this series.