A Panopticon for Pendle - Atom

A panoramic surprise

On a drive from East Lancashire to West Yorkshire I passed a sign near Wycoller village that indicated a view point.  As it was early afternoon and I hadn't yet had my lunch I decided to stop to take in the view while I ate my sandwich.

There was a structure just below the car park that looked unusual.  This turned out to be a Panopticon, the definition of this being :

a structure, space or device providing a comprehensive or panoramic view

A Panopticon for Pendle - Atom

This particular structure is called 'Atom' and provides a wonderful view over to Pendle hill and the surrounding countryside. It is both a viewing point and a shelter, and quite an intriguing object in the landscape.  Not to mention a great place for a lunch break!

Inside the Atom

If you want to find it, the address of the car park is

Haworth Rd, Laneshawbridge, Colne BB8 8SY

An information board explains that the Panopticon was designed by Peter Meacock with Katarina Novomestska and architects WCW.

Wycoller is a historic settlement dating back beyond 1000BC. It has close links with the Brontes, and Charlotte Bronte is thought to have been a frequent visitor. In 1973 the village was declared a conservation area and the surrounding 350 acres of farmland were designated a Country Park. 

Visitors to the Atom

This art structure is one of four unusual structures in the Lancashire area, the others are Colourfields in Blackburn, the Halo in Haslingden and the Singing Ringing Tree in Burnley.  I haven't visited these yet but would love to do so in the future.

If anyone has been to these other artworks I'd love to hear what you thought of them in the comments below.  Thanks.