Story
Ancient Rights
In a digital age, the life of a Herdwick shepherd may appear to belong to a bygone era. Yet, it is anything but. This way of life isn’t disconnected from time—it’s deeply in tune with the seasonal rhythms that still shape the land and those who work it.
Few scenes stir the soul quite like a sheep gathering. The raking of the fells—bringing mountain wanderers down from the upland solitudes to the valley farms—is always a sight to behold. And nowhere is it more stirring than in Wasdale, the land of the Herdwick.
This is perhaps one of the most iconic and well-loved photographs I’ve made. Local legend Thomas Postlethwaite and his dog, ‘Nel’, keep a tight flock streaming through the Vale of Wasdale, bound for the high fell of Red Pike.
In many ways, this valley still feels like the ‘old Lakeland’ of my youth, where traditions endure in hidden dale-heads and quiet corners. I feel privileged to witness it and to photograph such a living, breathing part of the region’s heritage.
You can also acquire this photograph as a Framed Dibond Print.
I offer Museum-grade artworks up to 2.5 metres wide. Please contact me for info regarding size, framing options and bespoke installations.