The very end of summer can be a sad time for a lot of us, with the days getting shorter and the weather cooler.
But it's one of the best times of year to see one of the country's prettiest natural phenomenons, with the heather in full bloom over the coming weeks.
The hills and mountains around the UK will be awash with bright purple colours as the flowering shrub nears the end of its flowering season.
There are loads of spots around Leeds and the North West where you can head out into the hills and enjoy the colourful late-summer landscapes.
This National Trust site is slap bang between Leeds and Manchester and, blissfully, is on the train line - so you don't even need to be able to drive to visit.
There are plenty of well-planned routes to follow, but if you want an only-slightly challenging walk, head on the 4.5 mile circular around Deer Hill, which is lined with heather.
This large open space near Sowerby Bridge has so much heather at the right time of year, it's like someone's rolled out the purple carpet.
It's really at its best at this time of year and there are tonnes of pubs nearby to wind down in afterwards.
Ilkley Moor
Just above the spa town of Ilkley is Ilkley Moor, where the heather grows around a rocky outcrop known as the Cow and Calf, which people say resembles a cow sheltering her calf.
It's a popular spot for all sorts of activities, including rock climbing, bird watching and hiking.
Hope Valley
The Hope Valley is a heather hotspot - walks at Bamford Edge, Win Hill, Higger Tor, Owler Tor and Stanage Edge are all stunning.
You really can't go wrong in this rugged, rocky corner of the Peak District, but it might be the staggering symmetry of the heather climbing beside the footpaths of Win Hill that gets out vote.
Walks along Blackden Brook aren't for the inexperienced - it's more of a rocky scramble, complete with streams and tough terrain, than a gentle Sunday hike.
But you'll be rewarded by splashes of purple heather sticking out from this incredible rocky landscape.
The steep climb up to Baslow Edge is well worth it for the sweeping countryside views that greet you at the top.
On a really clear day you can see all the way to Chatsworth House, and even on cloudier days you've got a good chance of spotting a Highland Cow wandering around the rugged landscape.
Featured image: Unsplash
The Sheff
The very best record shops in and around Sheffield city centre
Our record shops, just like the actual vinyl you're after buying, come in all shapes and sizes, stocking everything from holy grail albums to new spins that you need in your collection.
Whatever genre you're searching for, this South Yorkshire city and its array of record shops are sure to have you covered, and you can even refresh your wardrobe in some of them.
9 of the best record shops in and around Sheffield city centre
This place has everything you could possibly think of, including all the latest standout releases like Don't Be Dumb by A$AP Rocky and West End Girl by Lily Allen.
As well as a huge range of LPs, there's a wide variety of books all surrounding different music subcultures like Punk, Grime and Dance.
And of course, a moment of appreciation for Bear Tree Records and its Britney Spears 'Hit Me Baby One More Time' skateboard - iconic.
Where to find: Unit 13, The Forum, 16, 127 Devonshire St, Sheffield S3 7SB
If you couldn't tell by that window arrangement, this next spot is very rock-focused with the likes of Pink Floyd, Meat Loaf and Rage Against the Machine adorning its shopfront.
You can get your hands on some of the latest LPs as well as some pre-loved gems - you can delve into some classics or even expand your music knowledge with their vast display of records from the past.
It's also right next door to Tamper Coffee, which means you can grab your caffeine and vinyl fix at the same time, all within a two-minute walk.
Where to find: 137A Arundel St, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield S1 2NU
Record Collector
Credit: The Manc Group
We couldn't reel off notable record shops in Sheffield without mentioning this staple institution, which has been serving the music lovers of this South Yorkshire city since 1978.
Just like our very own music counterpart Audio North, the owner of Record Collector, Barry, spotlights up-and-coming talent, giving them pride of place in his shop displays.
If you're ever planning a day trip to Sheffield, you'll probably need to book a weekend, as this shop in itself will have you transfixed with its huge range of musical releases.
Where to find: 233 Fulwood Rd, Sheffield S10 3BA
Waxhead Records
Credit: The Manc Group
Inside Arundel Emporium is this beauty of a record shop, which formerly went by the name Music Junkie, before re-establishing itself as Waxhead Records.
No matter what name this shop goes by, one thing will always stay the same, and that's this record shop's dedication to proper good vinyl.
Check out those phenomenal albums on display by the likes of music greats: Ms Lauryn Hill, Amy Winehouse, Joni Mitchell - obviously Arctic Monkeys are up there too.
Where to find: First Floor, 16 Matilda St, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield S1 4QD
Kelham Island Books and Music
Credit: The Manc Group
Known for being Sheffield's largest second-hand bookshop, this place prides itself on its love for physical media.
Every inch of this shop floor is home to books, magazines, records, CDs and more, meaning you're sure to find something you'll enjoy.
Situated at Shalesmoor and close to Kelham Island, get ready to step back in time and browse plenty of vintage and preloved items that are waiting to spark interest and joy with the next person who picks them up.
Just a stone's throw away from Sheffield city centre is Tallbird Records, which we simply couldn't leave out, as they're top class.
They're Chesterfield's longest-running independent record shop, stocking all things music for over a decade, opening back in 2013.
Like all of the record shops mentioned above, this vinyl vendor prides itself on having a friendly team and a vast selection of LPs - they've even got K-Pop Demon Hunters.
Where to find: 10 Soresby St, Chesterfield S40 1JN
Last but not least, we'll end with one final honourable mention that feels like a fitting venue not just on Record Store Day but all year-round...
In The Making – A brand-new marketplace with more than 100 independent businesses inside is opening in Sheffield
Daisy Jackson
Sheffield is set to gain a brand-new marketplace in just a few weeks' time, with In The Making gearing up to open.
The new opening is set to shake-up Sheff's already-excellent independent retail scene, packing a whopping 100 local businesses inside its walls.
In The Making will provide a platform to dozens of local makers, artists, creators, and producers - and create an exciting new shopping destination for the rest of us.
The team behind the project had initially set their sites on Fox Valley for the marketplace, but are now instead moving into Orchard Square.
According to the hoardings that have appeared in the windows, this is set to be a 'carefully curated gift shop' with hundreds of items from independent makers inside.
Expect everything from art and jewellery to candles and coffee inside the space.
In The Making will be opened by Ellie (aka Lass Paints), her mum Lindsay, and Lindsay's best friend Anita.
They wrote: "Between us, we’ve done a bit of everything, from design and illustration to running small businesses, markets and events. We’ve seen just how much amazing talent there is around here and wanted to bring it all together under one roof.
In The Making signs have appeared at Orchard Square
"We’re here to champion independent makers! This isn’t about stepping on toes or doing things bigger and louder. It’s about supporting, uplifting and helping brilliant makers get their work out into the world.
"Our goal is to create a beautiful, welcoming hub full of thoughtful, well-made, joy-sparking things, and a space that feels warm, supportive and genuinely good to be part of, whether you’re a maker or just popping in for a browse.
"We can’t wait to welcome you in and build something special together"
You can see the full list of traders moving into In The Making HERE.
Daisy Jackson -
8th September 2022 
