For photo(s) from the walk(s), see the 2019 Picture Gallery
For more photos and comments from members, see our Facebook Page.
Sunday 29 December 2019 - Let’s Brush Off the Cobwebs - (Moderate: 8 miles)
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Tracey Parton led a group of 16 on this walk on a fine winter’s day, overcast but rain-free.
From Brushes Clough car park, the route was initially east, then north to Cherry Farm and west past Rooden, Piethorne, Kitcliffe and Ogden Reservoirs. The route continued south-west past Moy Hill and Bradley to Newhey and then south-east, along the Oldham Way, back to the start, and the excellent Park Inn.
Sunday 22 December 2019 - The Huncoats Trail - (Moderate: 9 miles)
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Alan Pilling led a group of 15 on this walk, on a day free from rain. However, underfoot conditions were challenging at times, and the walk involves some steep slopes alongside the footpaths, so the leader opted to eliminate the intended ascent of Great Hamelden, thereby reducing the mileage to 9 miles. The group appreciated this change, once they experienced how it was underfoot. From the Whitakers Arms PH, the route was to Within Grove, Nearer Holker House, Clough Bank Bridge, and alongside the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, crossing the M65 and taking the Burnley Way south to Childers Green, Sellars Fold Farm to Herst, Huncoats Quarry, and across the A56 to Peel Park and the monument. There was then a final descent back to the start, and to the excellent Whitakers
Sunday 8 December 2019 - The Tolkein Trail (plus a bit!) - (Moderate: 9 miles)
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Gill Kent led a group of 13 on this walk on an overcast, windy day with a few rain showers. Underfoot it was slippery at times.
From Hurst Green, the route was north-west, past Hill Farm to Greengore, then north to Higher Deer House and east to Stoneyhurst Park. The route was then south and east to Stoneyhurst College.
(J.R.R Tolkien, the author of the Hobbit and Lord of the Ring, did a lot of his writing at Stonyhurst College, during the Second World War.)
From the college the route was N to Over Hacking Farm and then NE to the River Hodder. The group the walked east and south alongside the river as far as Lower Hodder Bridge, then SW and SE past Winckley Hall to rejoin the Hodder along the Ribble Way, with a short final walk NW back to Hurst Green, and the Bayley Arms.
Sunday 1 December 2019 - Christmas Walk and Lunch (Easy: 6 miles)
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Tracey Parton, assisted by Mike Parton, Alan Pilling and Jean Royle, led a group of 26 on this 6 mile walk, starting and finishing at the Church Inn at Gallows Hill.From Gallows Hill, the route was east past the Pack Horse and then north to join the path running SE, along the top of the cliffs, to descend to Hooley Bridge. From there the route continued north alongside Naden Brook. The route was then SW towards Birtle, continuing back to the start.
Mulled wine and mince pies were supplied during a stop on the walk.
The weather was very good for the time of the year, sunny and dry. Underfoot it was muddy in a few places, but generally good.
Sunday 24 November 2019 - Ogden Round (Moderate: 10 miles)
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Jim Byrom led a group of 16 on this walk in dry weather, but again it was wet and muddy underfoot.
From Clough Head car park at Haslingden Grane, the route initially followed the Rossendale Way, before turning to Causeway Height, Tor End, Holden Hall and Windy Harbour Farm.
It then re-joined the Rossendale Way to lead back to the car park.
Most finished off the afternoon in the Holden Arms.
Sunday 17 November 2019 - A Beach and a 16th Century Alehouse (Moderate: 11 miles)
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Light rain was forecast, but fortunately there was little if any during this walk, led by Chris Langabeer, for a group of 9. Conditions underfoot, however, were difficult after rain over the preceding days.
The walk started from the Lych Gate just around the corner from the Black Horse Inn at Limbrick.
(A lych gate is a covered gate, usually at the entrance to a churchyard. The lych gate was a place where corpse-bearers paused, sheltered from the rain, waiting for the priest to arrive.)
The route followed the Leeds/Liverpool Canal for a short distance, passing the infant River Yarrow and Chorley Golf Course.
It continued to Higher Rivington Reservoir, the Bird Sanctuary at Black Dean and the Airman’s Monument – the latter after crossing Anglezarke Moor.
There were then a couple of steep ascents, and some descent, to reach the sandy beach at Healey Quarries!
Finally the walk passed the Thirlmere Aqueduct (taking water to Manchester) before arriving at the finish, and the Black Horse.
Sunday 10 November 2019 - Pots & Pans including Remembrance Service (Mod/Stren: 10 miles)
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There was fine weather, but it was wet and sometime muddy underfoot, for this 10-mile joint walk with Oldham Ramblers. A large group of 27 were led by Tracey Parton of Bury Ramblers and Debbie Duffy of Oldham Ramblers.
From Greenfield the route was to Dolefield and Rye Top, followed by a climb to Pots and Pans for the Remembrance Sunday service at the war memorial.
The route continued to Kinder Stones, Shaw Rocks, Slades Rocks and Slades Barn to Running Hill Head. From there the route was north to Diggle, Standedge Tunnels and Brun Moor, continuing to Bentley Farm and then south-west along the Standedge Trail, past Hunters Hill and along Harrop Edge to Lark Hill. Finally the route was on Sandy Lane and alongside the River Tame, back to the start, and for some, the Kingfisher
Sunday 3 November 2019 - Bradley Fold (Moderate: 11 miles)
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Barbara McCormack led a group of 15 on this walk, which was mainly dry, but was in some places quite muddy underfoot.
From Browns Road, off Radcliffe Moor Road, the route was initially via Ainsworth, and then the Manchester/Bury/Bolton Canal, to the Meccano bridge, for a break using the meccano seats provided.
The walk continued to Moses Gate Country Park, the River Croal and Darcy Lever.
Finally the group returned to Bradley Fold along the old railway track.
Most of the group finished off the afternoon in the Sparking Clog, at which point the rain started, fortunately having held off until after the walk had finished.
Sunday 27 October 2019 - Marple (Mod/Stren: 11 miles)
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Alan Pilling led a group of 12 on this walk, on a fine, windy day.
From Marple, the route was north, alongside the canal, and then east to Cherry Tree, continuing to Upper amd Lower Watermeetings Farm and Compstall Bridge to Etherow Country Park. The walk continued to Ernocroft Wood and Ernocroft, and then along Ernocroft Lane and Grid Lane to Hollywood End and on to Townscliffe Farm. The route was then east to Moor End, south on Primrose Lane and west on Back Lane to The Banks. The walk continued to Windybottom Farm and Strawberry Hill, north to Bottoms Bridge, west crossing the railway and finally north, back to the start, and The Railway Pub.
Sunday 20 October 2019 - Coach Trip - Yorkshire Dales
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Thanks to Peter Rowley for organising this coach trip, and for the walk leaders, Mike Minett, Barbara McCormack and Peter Rowley.
The weather was fine, except for one short shower.
Tne coach dropped off a group of 6 for the longer walk led by Mike Minett, then the moderate walk, led by Barbara McCormack, and finally the easier walk, led by Peter Rowley. The easier walk involved an optional train ride. The groups met up for the usual excellent meal at the Calf's Head in Worston
Sunday 13 October 2019 - Clayton-le-Moors (Mod/Stren: 13 miles)
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In a change to the planned walk, Stuart Wild led a group of 9 on this walk.
The morning was cloudy but dry, but with heavy rain in the afternoon.
The walk started at from Clayton-le-Moors, and visited Great Harwood, the River Calder, Read Park, Altham and a section along the towpath of the Leeds/Liverpool canal back to Clayton-le-Moors & the Hare & Hound.
The walk replaced a shorter walk by Barbara McCormack from the same start point, as Barbara was unable to get to the start point because of a bus cancellation.
Sunday 6 October 2019 - Bus Walk - Rawtenstall to Bury (Moderate: 11 miles)
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Ed Husband led a group, of 12 on this walk, on a day which had threatened rain, but fortunately none came. However, because of the overnight rain it was very wet underfoot.
The group mainly took the first 483 bus of the day (at 10am) from Bury to Rawtenstall, but a few made other arrangements to cope with a linear walk. The walk was mainly flat or downhill, alongside the Irwell. The walk started from the bus station, and from there proceeded to the railway station, along New Hall Hey Road and onto the Irwell Sculpture Trail, and then alongside the Irwell, for a morning break at Irwell Vale Station. From there, the route was along the former railway track to Strongstry, and along the Irwell to Stubbins, continuing on to Ramsbottom for lunch in Nuttall Park. The walk continued on paths to Summerseat, avoiding the bridge which is closed at present, and instead, past Summerseat Garden Centre to cross the railway (where Peter Rowley joined us for the final section of the walk). The route continued on the path leading to Burrs Country Park and back to Bury, and the Trackside Bar
Sunday 29 September 2019 - Birtle Dawdle (Easy: 5 miles)
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Brian Seaborne led a group of 9 on this walk, on a wet day. The planned route was circular, starting and finishing at the Church Inn at Gallows Hill, and visiting Birtle Road, Scotland Lane, Dunham Farm, Deeply Vale, Top o’ th’ Hill, Harewood Field, and back along Castle Hill Road. There was water running down the roads, footpaths were very wet, and the rain was continuous. To make the day a little easier, the route was modified to use lanes, rather the footpaths, wherever possible. The group finished off the day in the Church Inn.
Sunday 22 September 2019 - Green & Growing (Mod/Stren: 10 miles)
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The weather forecast was for heavy rain and thunderstorms, so the original 13 mile walk was reduced to 10 miles, which worked out well. The modified route was from Pope Croft car park, Church Lane, Ribchester, following the River Ribble through pastureland before crossing the new Dinckley footbridge and heading for Hurst Green. After passing Greengore, an old hunting lodge, the route swung south and west, through more farmland and woods, to pass Stydd church and almshouses, before returning to Ribchester
Sunday 15 September 2019 - Two Reservoirs – Dovestones & Chew (Mod/Stren: 10 miles)
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Chris Makin led a group of 9 on this walk, in mainly dry weather, with total cloud cover. From Binn Green car park, the route was initially alongside Dovestone Reservoir, and then up to Alphin Pike. It continued past Indian Head to reach Chew Reservoir for a lunch break. The walk then continued over Dove Stone Moss. Finally, there was a descent, back to Dovestone Reservoir, before returning to the car park, and The Railway
Sunday 8 September 2019 - Healey Dell & the ‘Stones of Wisdom’ (Moderate: 9 miles)
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Ray Bangbala led a group of 13 on this walk in fine, warm weather. From the Dell, the walk proceeded to Broadley Fold and Prickshaw, and then picked up the Rossendale Way to Fold Head. It continued to Cowm reservoir and Brown Wardle. Finally, the group visited the ‘Stones of Wisdom’ before returning to Healey Dell.
Sunday 1 September 2019 - Radcliffe Ramble (Welcome Walk: 5 miles)
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Mike Minett led a group of 9 on this walk, which was mainly dry but with the occasional light shower. From Radcliffe the route was west, along the Manchester Bolton & Bury Canal, to Nob End and the Meccano Bridge, and then east along Prestolee Road to Cinder Hill. The route then joined the former railway track, which led the group north-east to cross the Irwell and return to the start.
Sunday 25 August 2019 - Abbeystead & the Wyre Valley (Moderate: 11 miles)
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John Clements led a group of 14 on this walk in hot, dry weather. From Abbeystead, the route was east, along the Wyre Way to Tarnbrook, then south to Tower Lodge, south-west to Marshaw, and north-west back to Stoops Bridge. There was then an option to leave the walk, which no-one took. The route continued south, along Bond Clough, to Hawthornthwaite, and west past Marl House, north to Ridding Wood, west to Long Bridge and Long Wood, NE to Chapel House Farm, and finally SE along Abbeystead Lane back to the start.
The group finished off the afternoon at the Fleece Inn at Dolphinholme.
Sunday 18 August 2019 - Rossendale Amble (Moderate: 10 miles)
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For this replacement walk, Jim Byrom led a group of 22 on a 10 mile walk, in mainly good weather with a couple of brief showers.
From Ramsbottom the route was initially north, along the Sculpture Trail, through Stubbins and Chatterton to Rawtenstall, and then via Clowes Fold, and walking above Horncliffe to Gincroft Lane, Plunge Farm and Hollins Lane, dropping down to walk back alongside the Irwell to Ramsbottom, and the Railway.
Wednesday 14 August 2019 - Taylor’s Farm & Moorbottom Road
To complete the summer programme of five-mile evening walks, Dave Armstrong led a group of six, starting and finishing at the Waggon & Horses, Hawkshaw.
Sunday 11 August 2019 - Two Feet in the Gargrave! (Moderate: 12 miles)
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Ian Pickup led a group of seven on this walk, in mainly good weather, with some light rain.
From Gargrave the route was NW on the Pennine Way via Eshton Moor, Eel Ark Hill and Newfield Bridge to Airton.
The route was then south on Kirk Syke Lane via Bell Busk, Coniston Cold, Dogber Rock and Newton Hall to Bank Newton, and then along the towing path for a stretch, north-west, past Scaleber Hill, along the Pennine Way, back to Gargrave.
The group finished off the afternoon in the Old Swan.
Wednesday 7 August 2019 - Wild Garlic Valley
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Ed Husband led a group of 8 on this walk, on a fine evening.
From Ramsbottom Station, the route was through Nuttall Park and along the Irwell to Brooksbottoms, and on to Holcombe Brook. There was then an uphill walk to Hey House, and from there it was downhill to Holcombe Village, continuing downhill through the woods to Ramsbottom, and to Irwell Works Brewery.
Sunday 4 August 2019 - Bingley, Saltaire & Harden (Mod/Stren: 14 miles)
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Malcolm Chester led a group of 6 on this walk, on a hot and humid day.From Harden, the route was via Moor Edge and Cross Gates to Bingley, crossing the River Aire, and north to Five Rise Locks. The route was then south along the river and the Leeds-Liverpool Canal to Saltaire. The route was then west along the Millennium Way to Beck Foot, continuing to Crag Wood and then north to Ryecroft and Harden Moor and Lower Crag, and then south-east back to Harden and the Golden Fleece. There was no rain during the walk, but heavy rain during the drive home.
Wednesday 31 July 2019 - Shuttleworth & Bleakholt
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After a day of heavy rain showers, just six, led by Ed Husband, decided to risk the weather for this evening walk, which, as it turned out, was rain-free. From Ramsbottom the route was north alongside the river Irwell to Sheep Hey, then east, crossing te M66 and A56 and along Hollin's Lane , Bury Old Road and Bleakholt Road and a short walk south on the A680 through Turn, past the former Plane Tree Public House. The direction was then west on Riding Head Lane to join the A56 and take the footbridge over the M66 to return to Ramsbottom, and Irwell Works Brewery, where there was musical entertainment.
Sunday 28 July 2019 - The Sticky Toffee Pudding Round (Mod/Stren: 12 miles)
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Gill Kent led a group of 11 on this walk on a hot, dry and humid day. It had rained heavily the previous night, and it rained heavily again on the drive home, so we were lucky to avoid any rain on the walk itself.
From High Newton, the route was west to High Cark Hall, Greenhurst and Grassgarth, then south to Speel Bank, Burns Farm, Walton Hall and Seven Acres, and then east to Cartmel.
From Cartmel, the route was east and then north to Hampsfell. The Hospice, built in 1846 by the vicar of Cartmel, provides excellent views from the top, and on a good day you can see the Old Man of Coniston, Helvelyn, the Langdales and Morecambe Bay. Finally the route continued north, back to the start, and a well-earned drink at the Crown Inn.
Wednesday 24 July 2019 - Birtle
Peter Rowley led a group of 9 on this walk, on a hot evening, starting from Clarence Lido.
Sunday 21 July 2019 - Grassington (Mod/Stren: 13 miles)
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Alan Pilling led a group of 12 on this walk, on a warm and humid day.
From Grassington, the route was south on Sedber Lane to Linton Falls, and then east on the Dales Way alongside the Wharfe to Mill Bridge and then north to Hebden, Hole Bottom and Loss Gill Bank, and west to Yarnbury. There followed a long stretch north to Kelber, and then west on Bycliffe Road, and south-west to Conistone. Finally, there was a walk south to Lea Green, through the site of the medieval village, and back to Grassington, and the Black Horse.
Wednesday 17 July 2019 - Greenmount & Hawkshaw
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Dorothy France led a group of 13 on this walk, in mainly good weather with some short showers. From Greenmount, the route was initially to Holly Mount, Two Brooks Valley and Hawkshaw, and then heading back across the golf course back to the start. Some finished off the evening in the Dungeon.
Sunday 14 July 2019 -Uppermill, Bishops Park & Castleshaw Roman Fort (Moderate: 12 miles)
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Chris Hayes and Kepa Kinsler led a group of 12 on this 12-mile walk, on a hot, sunny day.
From Uppermill the route was initially south, along the River Tame to Greenfield Station, then climbing and heading west to Burnedge Lane, then north, parallel with Doctor Lane and onto Two Acre, joining the Medlock Valley Way north to Tamecroft Farm and Slackcote, then east to Castleshaw Lower Reservoir and the Roman Fort. The route was then south to Hunters Hill and along Harrop Edge, and finally descending to walk back along the Huddersfield Narrow Canal back to the start..
Wednesday 10 July 2019 - Holcombe Hillbilly
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Dave Armstrong led a group of 12 on this walk on a fine evening.From the car park on Lumb Carr Road, the route was first south and then east and north through Tagg Wood and uphill to Holcombe Village, and then north to Top Wood, west to Harcles Hill, then south past Peel Tower, descending to Hill End Farm, and back to the start, and the Shoulder of Mutton.
Sunday 7 July 2019 - The Helm via The Force! (Moderate: 12 miles)
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Chris Langabeer led a group of 12 on this walk in warm, sunny weather.
The walk went initially along the disused Lancaster Canal to reach the magnificent Hincaster Tunnel and Hall before crossing Hincaster Hill to reach Levens Hall (with its famous topiary sculptures). There then followed a short climb through Levens Deer Park to reach the River Kent and the rapids known as The Force – frequented by canoeists. Continuing alongside the River Kent, the group arrived at the village of Natland and proceeded to the summit of The Helm. (Although standing at only 185m high, it can give excellent views on a good day.) The route was then undulating, passing the villages of Summerland and Endmoor, before arriving back at the Crooklands Hotel, for drinks and a seat in the sun.
Wednesday 3 July 2019 - Trek Around Turton
Dave Armstrong led a group of about 20 on this walk, on a fine evening.
From Chapeltown the route was south to Jumbles and then north to Horrobin Fold, then west and south to Top of Turton, through the disused quarries to Edgerton, Torra Barn, and then north and east back to the start, and the Chetham Arms. To view the route on OSMaps, click here
Sunday 30 June 2019 - Let's Walk the Nancy Way (Mod/Stren: 13 miles)
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Tracey Parton led a group of 13 on this walk on a fine, windy day, thankfully much cooler than the previous day. From Bolllington, the route was along the Saddle of Kerridge to Kerridge Hill and White Nancy, continuing to Gulshaw Hollow, Valeroyal and Lamaload Reservoir. The walk continued along Waggonshaw Brow, Bank Lane, continuing north to Charles Head. The route was then west and north along the Gritstone Trail to Sponds Hill, then west to Dale Top and south across Bakestonedale Moor to Andrew’s Knob, Gausie Brow and west along Hedge Row, and finally south-east via Sowcar back to the start, and the Bull’s Head.
Wednesday 26 June 2019 - Crawshawbooth Crawl
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John Clements led a group of 15 on this walk, on a fine evening.
From Crawshawbooth, the route was inevitably uphill, west on Pinner Lane to Cribden Moor, then south to Cribden End, and on to Hugh Rake Top and the Disused Quarry, before returning downhill to Crawshawbooth, and the White Bull.
Sunday 23 June 2019 - Great Close Hill (Mod/Stren: 11 miles)
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Alan Pilling led a group of 12 on this walk in fine, cloudy weather with rain forecast for later. After the walk had finished and we had returned to Bury, the rain duly arrived.
From Kirkby Malham the route was north to Malham, busy with tourists, and then north to Janet’s Foss, continuing north to Mastiles Lane and on to ascend Great Close Hill. After a break, the group descended to Malham Tarn, and then walked south, adding temporarily an extra walker to shelter among the group whilst passing some aggressive cows, probably concerned for their calves.
The route continued south on the Pennine Way to the limestone pavement at Malham Cove, fortunately dry, continuing south past Aire Head, Scalegill Mill and Hanlith Bridge, and finally back to Kirkby Malham, and the excellent Victoria Inn, built in 1840.
Wednesday 19 June 2019 - Ramsbottom Round
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Jim Byrom led a group of 19 on this walk on a fine evening.
From Ramsborrom Station, the route was initially through the centre of Ramsbottom and on to to Carr, Top Wood, Ox Hey Wood and Stubbins. The route continued past the Tentering Tower to Strongstry, and then on the footpath to Lumb Grange and Irwell Vale. After crossing the railway, the route continued to Grange House and over the A56 to Edenfield and Stubbins, and finally alongside the Irwell, past the former Kay's Soap Works, and back to the start.
Most finished off the evening in the newly-refurbished Railway Hotel.
Sunday 16 June 2019 - Coach Trip to Ullswater - Pooley Bridge
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Thanks to Peter Rowley for organising this event, and to the walk leaders, Barbara McCormack, Ian Pickup and Alan Pilling.
The weather was mainly fine but with a few showers, some heavy.
Alan's group was the first to drop off the coach, and shortly afterwards, were followed by Ian's group from Shap.
The coach then continued to Pooley Bridge for a linear walk south alongside the lake, led by Barbara McCormack, and an optional return boat trip, as an alternative to returning via footpaths.
Ian's group went via Rosgill, Bampton Grange, Whale, Askham Fell and Howe Hill to Pooley Bridge, a total of 10 miles, whilst Alan's group followed a similar route, but 2 miles longer. The walkers then visited the pubs and cafes in the village.
During the journey back, the coach encountered a problem, just after joining the A66 from the A592. As there was likely to be a significant delay, before a replacement coach would arrive, the passengers were advised by the driver to walk across to the nearby Rheged Discovery Centre, which had seats with tables, toilets, food and drinks, to make the anticipated long wait more palatable. The group arrived back in Bury after 11pm, having had a longer day out than had been anticipated.
Wednesday 12 June 2019 - A Walk Around the Salford Wetlands
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Tracey Parton led a group of 16 on this walk, on a rainy day which cleared up in the evening. Tracey's report follows below:
From the golf club we walked onto Kersal Moor, which was the site of the first Manchester Racecourse (1687-1846), and onto Blackfield Lane, down Radford Street and onto the old Manchester Golf Links, a continuation (on the Castle Irwell site) of the old Manchester Racecourse, which is now known as the Salford Wetlands, a flood protection scheme which has also provided new home for birds, wildlife, (and is also great for walkers). We then walked along the banks of the River Irwell up onto moor lane, and back to the golf club for food and refreshments.
Sunday 9 June 2019 - Long Preston & Winskill (Mod/Stren: 12 miles)
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Jim Byrom led a group of 14 on this walk, in fine, windy weather. There was rain in Bury during the day, but none on the walk.
From Long Preston, the route was NE on Scaleshaw Lane to Bookilber Barn, then N on Langber Lane to Scaleber Force, continuing N on High Hill Lane to Sugar Loaf Hill, Attermire Scar, Brent Scar and Victoria Cave. The route was then west and south on the Pennine Bridleway to Settle, and then an ascent out of Settle on Mitchell Lane, continuing south to Hunter Bark, and then following the Pennine Bridleway back to Long Preston, asd the excellent Boar's Head.
Wednesday 5 June 2019 - Pilgrims Cross
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Ed Husband led a group of 20 on this walk, on a fine evening.
From Lumb Carr Road Car Park, the route was along Moorbottom Road, above the firing ranges, and then ascending to Pilgrims Cross, and continuing on high ground to Ellen Strange's Cairn.
Ther was then a downhill stretch to Robin Hood's Well, followed by a walk along the Moor Road path, with great views acroos the valley to the wind farm, and finally back to the start, and the Shoulder of Mutton.
Sunday 2 June 2019 - Tittesworth & the Roaches (Mod/Stren: 12 miles)
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Stuart Wild led a group of 12 on this walk, in a few very light showers but nothing came of it. From Tittesworth Water the route was NW to Meerbrook, then North towards Swythamley Hall, then heading East passing Danebridge, then heading NE toward Hanging Stone Farm, and then east toward Gradbach where we walked through the magnificent Lud's Church. The route then went South over Bearstone Rock and over the The Roaches, then finally past Hen Cloud, back to the start, and the Lazy Trout.
Wednesday 29 May 2019 - Tottington Round
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Ray Bangbala led a group of 11 on this walk, on a wet evening. From Tottington the walk was mainly on paths and former railway tracks which are now bridleways, keeping under trees as much as possible to avoid the continuous rain. Following the walk, the group finished off the evening in the excellent Dungeon PH.
Sunday 26 May 2019 - Waterfoot Circular (Moderate: 10 miles)
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Rick Milner and Barbara Bolton led a group of nine on this walk, in windy weather with heavy rain in the morning. By the afternoon, the rain had subsided and it was sunny.
The walk started from the Duckworth Arms PH at Shuttleworth, and continued via Michael Wife Lane, Gin Croft Lane, Sand Beds Lane, Higher Mount Pleasant, Whinberry Naze and Higher Lench, to Waterfoot. From Waterfoot, there was a climb back up to higher ground. As the weather had improved and the group were ahead of schedule, the group took the Rossendale Way past Waugh's Well and through the wind farm, descending to Turn Village, past Bleakholt, and down Hollin's Lane, back to the start, and the Duckworth Arms.
Wednesday 22 May 2019 - Two Valleys Walk
Peter Rowley led a group of 15 on this walk in fine weather.
Sunday 12 May 2019 - Dimple from Smithills (Moderate: 10 miles)
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Barbara McCormack led a group of 9 on this walk, in fine weather with great views.
The walk started from Smithills Farm car park, and went via Dunscar to the little hamlet of Dimple, passing its church/graveyard. It continued to Belmont, before returning via Horrocks Fold to Smithills.
Sunday 5 May 2019 - Meadow Head (Moderate: 11 miles)
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Ed Husband led a group of 19 on this 11 mile walk on a fine day with sunshine for most of the day. From Clowbridge, the route was north to Crown Point, continuing north across the golf course, and then heading east to Towneley Park for a morning break. From Towneley Park, the route was first north, and then east to Cliviger, and then south, going uphill over Spring Gardens and then down to Dyneley Farm.
The route then followed the Burnley Way and the Pennine Bridleway, and finally the Rossendale Way, back to the start.
Sunday 28 April 2019 - Coach Trip to Filey
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Thanks to Peter for organising this coach trip, and thanks also to the walk leaders, Mike, Ed and Barbara, and to Woolfold Travel for the coach and to Bob the coach driver. First to drop off the coach was Mike's group to walk from Ganton to Filey. Next to leave the coach was Ed's Group to walk from Staxton to Filey. The coach continued to Filey, and Barbara then led a circular walk from the town. After the walks, the groups enjoyed drinks and music at the Station Hotel, and fish and chips in the town.
Sunday 21 April 2019 - Two Reservoirs, a Canal and a Duck Pond (Moderate: 12 miles)
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Ian Pickup led a group of 15 on this walk in hot, sunny weather. From Barrowford, the route was to Higherford, and on to Slipper Hill Reservoir and Foulridge, and then along the Leeds-Liverpool Canal to Park Close. The walk continued to Copy Nook, Duck Pond Farm, Admergill, Roughlee and back to Barrowford, and the George and Dragon.
Sunday 14 April 2019 - Dunsop Bridge & Trough of Bowland (Moderate: 10 miles)
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Gill Kent led a group of 13 on this walk.The walk started from Dunsop Bridge. It crossed the River Hodder to Giddy Bridge and then proceeded over Hodder Bank Fell to Burholme Bridge. After climbing onto Tunstall Ing it went along the contours before dropping down to Hareden and back to Dunsop.
Sunday 7 April 2019 - Tideswell Moor (Moderate: 10 miles)
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John Talbot led a group of 12 on this walk in fine weather.
From Cherry Tree Square the group climbed out of Tideswell onto Tideswell Moor and then continued up and over Tideslow before descending to Little Hucklow and Great Hucklow. It continued to Grindlow and Wardlow Mires, before returning to Tideswell via Litton.
Sunday 31 March 2019 - A Stroll Down to Hollywood (Moderate: 12 miles)
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Chris Langabeer, with Ian Pickup, led a group of 15 on this walk, in fine, breezy weather. From Wallsuches, the route was south to Bolton Golf Club, Lostock Hall, Chulsey Gate Lane, then north to Regent Park Golf Club, Old Hall and Doffcocker Lodge, continuing to Barrow Bridge, Smithills Dean and Holdens Farm, and then south to Burnt Edge, Marsden's Farm, and back to the start, and the Ale House.
Sunday 24 March 2019 - Marple Circular (Moderate: 9 miles)
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Jim Ashton led a group of 15 on this walk on a fine, sunny day.
The walk started from Roman Lakes Leisure Park, Lakes Road, Marple.
The route was initially via Roman Lakes, and then to Strines, Middlewood Way, Hawk Green and finally back to Marple, and the Railway Inn.
Sunday 17 March 2019 - Marsden Moor Circular 3 (Mod/Stren: 10 miles)
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Stuart Wild led a group of 10 on this walk. Due to the bad weather, the original route up to Black Hill was voted against, and the leader substituted a lower-level walk.
The group encountered strong winds, hailstones and occasionally some sunshine.
From Wessenden Head car park we followed the Pennine Way NW past the Wessenden Waterfall, and then followed the Kirklees Way past Butterley Reservoir and into Marsden for lunch. The return was over Binn Moor and then, following the Pennine Way, back to the start.
The group finished off the afternoon in The Ford Inn.
Sunday 10 March 2019 - Hoyle Bottom to Bedlam (Moderate: 10 miles)
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Ed Husband led a group of 6 on this walk, in weather that started with heavy snow. During the day, the snow subsided, and the group encountered strong winds, hailstones and occasionally some sunshine.
From Clough Head car park at Haslingden Grane, the route was east along the Rossendale Way, past Windy Harbour Farm, and then north to cross the B6236 at Roundhill, and walk past Lark Hill Farm and Farther Friar Hill Farm to join the former railway line to Accrington.
The group left the railway line to climb up to Icconhurst and on to Bedlam, Gaulkthorne and Hoyle Bottom.
Finally, the route was south, to re-cross the B6236 and continue across Oswaldtwistle Moor, through the wind farm, to rejoin the Rossendale Way, heading east back to the start.
The group finished off the afternoon in the Holden Arms.
Sunday 3 March 2019 - Ainsworth (Moderate: 10 miles)
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Barbara McCormack led a group of 12 on this walk, in rainy weather with wet underfoot conditions.
The walk started from the Duke William PH, Well Street, Ainsworth. Initially the route was along Knowsley Road before crossing a reservoir to Bentley Hall Road. From there, using farmland and country lanes, it continued via Greenmount, Hollingrove Farm and Hawkshaw to reach Tottington Road. The return to Ainsworth was via Old Holts. The group finished off the afternoon, and dried off, in the Duke William.
Sunday 24 February 2019 - Mytholmroyd Round (Moderate: 11 miles)
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Tracey Parton led a group of 23 on this walk, in fine weather, more typical of a summer’s day, rather than the end of February. From the Hinchliffe Arms, the route was south to Green Bank, and then east and north along Water Stalls Road to Moor End, continuing north to Mytholmroyd and then along the Calderdale Way to Crow Hill. The route continued south along Cragg Vale back to the start and the excellent Hinchcliffe Arms.
Sunday 17 February 2019 - Ramsbottom to Bury via Helmshore (Moderate: 10 miles)
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Chris Makin led a group of 20 on this walk in fine weather.
Most started by taking a bus to Ramsbottom, and from there, the route was was north to Irwell Vale, and then Robin Hood's Well, Peel Tower, Holcombe Brook, Summerseat, Burrs Country Park, finishing at the Trackside Bar at Bolton Street Station, Bury.
Sunday 10 February 2019 - Pendleside & the Last ‘Clarion House’ (Moderate: 10 miles)
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Arlene and Harry Waddington led a total of 17 ramblers in cool but dry weather from the Victoria Park area of Nelson. After climbing gradually to the Inghamite Chapel near Fence, we continued to the ridge overlooking Pendle Hill and the hamlets of Spen Brook and Newchurch. Dropping through the forest from Newchurch, lunch was taken in the grounds of the Clarion House, known to be the only remaining establishment of its kind in the country. After lunch we climbed from Roughlee to Ridgaling before dropping to the Water Meetings and back through Barrowford.
Sunday 3 February 2019 - Gorpley, Flower Scar, Knotts & Bride Stones (Moderate: 10 miles)
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John Clements led a group of 10 on this walk, in cold weather near to freezing point, but generally sunny apart from one short rain shower.
Underfoot there was quite a bit of snow.
From Todmorden the route was initially south along the Rochdale Canal to Gauxholme, and then west, climbing to Stones Wood and then crossing the A681 to walk along Gorpley Clough to Gorpley Reservoir.
The route continued north, past Gorpley, to Clough Foot and along Sourhall Road and Tower Causway, Height Top and Roundfield, followed by a descent to the A646.
The route was then north to Hartley Royd and the Bride Stones, before heading south via Windy Harbour and Hole Bottom back to Todmorden, and the White Hart.
Sunday 27 January 2019 - Brinscall & Spitlers Edge (Mod/Stren: 12 miles)
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Malcolm Chester led a group of 14 on this walk on a day which was windy but thankfully rain-free. Starting from the dam between Anglezarke and Upper Rivington Reservoirs, the route was to Limbrick, Mouldy House Farm, Liptrot’s Farm and on to Great Hill. From there the route was south on Spitlers Edge to Hordern Pasture, and then turning back west following the river Yarrow, back to the start.
Sunday 20 January 2019 - Holcombe, Edgworth & Summerseat (Moderate: 11 miles)
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Jim Byrom led a group of 17 on this walk, on a misty but dry winter’s day. From Holcombe Brook, the route was north, then west past Hey House to join the Moorbottom Road to Lark Hill, and then south and west to Red Earth Farm and Edgworth, continuing south and east to Hawkshaw. (At the break there was some excellent home-made cake to fortify the walkers.) From Hawkshaw, the route was south to Two Brooks Farm and Holly Mount, and then Greenmount, Tower Farm, Summerseat and Brooksbottoms, Woodhey, and finally back to the Hare and Hounds for some welcome refreshments.
Sunday 13 January 2019 - Haslingden Grane Circular (Moderate: 10 miles)
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Bruce Dunnett led a group of 19 on this walk on a rainy day.
From the Holden Arms on the Grane Road, the route was north past Holden Hall and then west, mainly on the Rossendale Way, to Nab Hill, and then south to Haslingden Grane and east, initially on the Rossendale Way and then climbing Musbury Heights to the Chimney. The route was then south to Musden Head and east to Hill End, and finally north, back to the start, and the Holden Arms.
Sunday 6 January 2019 - The Witton Wanderer (Moderate: 11 miles)
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For the first walk of 2019, Ed Husband led a group of 26 on a mainly fine day with some occasional drizzle, and with mist for most of the day. From Witton Country Park the route was north to Billinge Hill, then west on the Witton Weavers Way, pausing at the Wainwright Stone for drinks, and continuing to Hoghton Bottoms for a lunch stop. The route was then south along the River Darwen to Feniscowles, crossing the Leeds and Liverpool Canal and heading east to Fowler Fold to rejoin the Witton Weavers Way north, back to the start, and for some, the Beehive Inn in Cherry Tree.