townhouses – BrownhillsBob's #365daysofbiking

September 1st – Today, for the first time in ages, I had to go to Leicester for a work appointment. I forgot how wonderfully vibrant the city is, and how gorgeously eclectic the architecture is.

Brutal in places, it’s mostly Victorian faux-gothic, elaborate terraces or just plain bonkers. The church spires coexist with minarets, tower blocks and statement systembuilds. The streets hum with chaotic, frenetic activity.

I love where I live with all my heart, but there will always be a soft spot in there for this city, too. I could live here.

February 12th – Darlaston and its remarkably wonderful architecture are stunning, and a joy to the heart even on the dullest winter days. Passing Rectory Avenue – the cul-de-sac next to the Post Office – I was struck by the beautiful red terracotta brick townhouses here I’d not really stopped and studied before. Foursquare, bold, architecturally confident, these were expensive houses, but not overly flashy. Beautiful.

Beyond them, between here and the church, the mysterious and wonderful tower of the Columbarium.

Such wonder in such a small, unassuming Black Country town.

January 30th – Darlaston was similarly beautiful again. I love Victoria Park and this partof town – it’s so quiet and peaceful. I love the soft contours of the old railway cutting and the oddly delicate wooden footbridge. The green turf contrasts beautifully with the Victorian, four-square red brick townhouses. Once, steam trains thundered through here, now just walkers, a little local traffic and the odd, awestruck cyclist.

Just a minor point, though. Does anyone else get a slight Teletubby vibe from this landscape?