A sense of place: Nicholson and Millom

Poet and writer Norman Nicholson’s sense of place is rooted in his understanding of Cumbria’s geology, his life lived out in the same terraced house in Millom, a town at the iron-clad edge of Cumbria’s coast.

Nicholson’s writing carries lives lived in these lived-in landscapes; his topographical texts are rich in place, people, natural history, and have an environmental awareness ahead of their time.

Visiting Millom’s townscape, we will explore the geology of place and see the Norman Nicholson House CIC’s project, preserving the poet’s home for his community, and a key literary house for the nation.

Continuing into the industrial landscape of the former Hodbarrow mine, beneath the flaring memory of the now dismantled ironworks, we will explore the natural history of recovering, post-industrial landscapes – all in the near shadow of Nicholson’s muse, Black Combe.

About the leader

The walk will be led by Phil Houghton. Phil is a member of our North West regional committee (Cumbria and Lancashire).

Event information

The tour will involve walking in Millom and some uneven terrain at Hodbarrow mine. Outdoor clothing and footwear recommended.

Children must be accompanied by parent or guardian.

Dogs are not permitted on this walk.

Booking information

• Advance booking for this event is required. In order to book you will need an account on our website. If you already have an account you will be prompted to log in when you click 'book now'. Please create an account if you do not have one yet (you do not need to be a member of the Society to create an account).
• We do not issue tickets (electronic or physical) for this event. Instead your name will be on a list at the door.
• Your contact details (name and mobile phone number) will be shared with the event organiser in case of emergency or last-minute change to the event. The event organiser will delete all of the information provided by you within seven days of the event taking place.
• If you have any pre-existing medical conditions that will affect your ability to participate in this visit (including any dietary allergies) please let us know events@rgs.org

If you have any questions or require assistance with your booking, please email events@rgs.org

This event has been organised by the North West regional committee with the Norman Nicholson Society.