Crook o' Lune

The Crook o' Lune is a celebrated horseshoe bend in the River Lune just east of Lancaster near Caton, a spot Turner painted and Wordsworth praised. Wooded riverbanks, old railway viaducts and a broad sweep of water make it a rewarding subject from the air, with the Bowland fells rising to the east. There is a dedicated picnic-site car park with a cafe kiosk, and the Lune Valley Ramble and cycleway pass through, so access could hardly be easier. This is council-managed public open space rather than National Trust land, and there is no Flight Restriction Zone overhead, which makes it one of the more relaxed launch points in the area. Do be mindful of anglers along the banks, walkers and cyclists on the old railway path, and the occasional canoeist on the river. Keep clear of people and avoid low passes over the water. The riverside grass gives a firm, level take-off area. Weekends and sunny afternoons draw families to the picnic site, so early morning is quieter and gives lovely low light along the valley and mist over the Lune in autumn.