High above what were once the headquarters of the North Eastern Railway in York is this weather vane, which was a feature of the construction of the offices in 1906.
The original locomotive outline was of a local passenger tank engine, a rather lowly status engine for such an important building. It was replaced by the current outline in 1922 after the bearings on the original vane failed.
I have an earlier shot of this weather vane taken around ten years ago, when the whole thing leaned at a rather precarious angle following severe winds. It was taken down, repaired, re-gilded and returned to its place here. It is quite an eye catching feature as it reflects the sunlight.
The former NER offices were converted to The Grand Hotel, the first 5* hotel in York, which was opened in 2010.
Love it! We stayed at the Grand Hotel for one night for our silver wedding and again for 2 amazing (expensive!) nights for the Teenager's 18th as he wanted to be at the Railway Museum on the day and have tea at Bettys. Loved being inside the iconic building and sleeping in what would have been a beautiful office.
Thank you all for your lovely comments and favs, they are very much appreciated.
The only time I've been in the Grand Hotel was during a Residents Festival weekend shortly after the hotel opened, on a guided tour to see some of the features of railway interest that survive in the building.
Thank you all for your lovely comments and favs, they are very much appreciated.
The only time I've been in the Grand Hotel was during a Residents Festival weekend shortly after the hotel opened, on a guided tour to see some of the features of railway interest that survive in the building.
Ian
Great capture
Thank you both - it is amazing how much these architectural details add to life.
Ian