For photo(s) from the walk(s), see month
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Sunday 18 December - Holcombe (Moderate: 8 miles)
Bill Hayden led a group of 12 on this walk, on a fine winter’s day. From Holcombe Brook the route was through Redisher Woods to the rifle ranges, and then climbing up to Taylor’s Farm. The route then followed the Moorbottom Road to Quarlton Heights and then past Baron’s Farm, Red Earth Farm, Holcombe Hey Fold Farm and Higher House Farm, Simons Farm, Hollingrove Farm and back to the Hare and Hounds.
Sunday 11 December - The Affetside Amble (Moderate: 12 miles)
Chris Langabeer led a group of 18 on this walk in mild, dry weather. Underfoot, it was muddy at times. From Affetside, the route was west, downhill to Bromley Cross, then north to Entwistle Reservoir, east to Boardman’s Farm and finally south via Hawkshaw to Affetside and the Pack Horse.
Sunday 4 December - Edenfield Walks and Christmas Lunch (Moderate: 5 and 10 miles)
On a brilliant and sunny winter's day, thanks to the walk leaders Jim Byrom, for leading a group of 24 on a 10 mile walk, and Brian Seaborne, for leading a group of 5 on a 5 mile walk. Many thanks also to Tracey, for organising at short notice a Christmas Lunch at the Duckworth Arms to follow the walks.
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Sunday 27 November - Healey Dell & Rooley Moor (Moderate: 9 miles)
Dave Capell led a group of 20 (plus one dog) on this 9-mile walk, on a fine winter’s day. From Healey Dell the route was west to Naden Lower Reservoir, then north to join the Rooley Moor Road, continuing to the north of Hamer Hill. The route was then east to Cowm Reservoir for lunch. From Cowm, the route was south, back to the start.
Sunday 20 November - Lever Edge (Moderate: 10 miles)
Barbara McCormack led a group of 17 on this walk on a fine, but cold, winter's day. It was, at times, muddy underfoot, and total ascent was about 500 feet. From Lever Edge the route was west past Smethurst Lane, then south past Heathfield Farm to Middle Hulton and Shakerley. From there the route was east to Cleworth Hall, and then north along Wharton Lane, past Great Lever and Farnworth Golf Club, and finally back to the start.
Sunday 13 November - Marsden Moor Circular (Moderate: 10 miles)
Stuart Wild led a group of 18 on this walk, in mainly fine (but cool) weather. The walk started from the Marsden Moor Estate Office, then headed west down the canal towards Standedge Tunnel. The route continued up to Green Owler Farm and on for a coffee break at March Haigh Reservoir. From there the group walked onto the Packhorse trail, climbing up onto the Pennine Way, over Standedge toward Pull Hill, and then down Dark Lane & over the Packhorse Bridge. Finally the 18 made their way along the river Colne, and the canal, back to Marsden and the Railway Inn.
Sunday 6 November - Bus Walk Ramsbottom to Bury (Moderate : 12 miles)
Ed Husband led a group of 17 on this walk, in mainly fine (but cool) weather, but with a few brief showers. From Ramsbottom, the route was to Stubbins, and past the Tentering Tower to Irwell Vale for a morning break. The route continued uphill to Robin Hood’s Well, Ellen Strange’s Cairn, Pilgrims Cross and the Moorbottom Road for lunch. The route continued to Holcombe Brook, Summerseat, and along the Irwell Sculpture Trail, through Burrs Country Park, to finish in Bury at the Trackside Bar.
Sunday 6 November - Little Scotland & Arley Moat (Welcome Walk)
Dave Armstrong led a select group on this welcome walk, which started from Blackrod Community Centre, and visited Makinson’s Farm, Pennington Hill Farm, Little Scotland, Bludell Lane , Aberdeen Farm, Aberdeen Bridge, Crawshaw Hall, Arley Wood, Moated Golf Clubhouse, Hollins Head, and Copperas House, before returning to the start.
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Sunday 30 October - Safari Surprise (Mod/Stren : 15 miles)
Norman Thomas, with Chris Langabeer, led a group of 13 on this walk, on a fine autumn day. Various animals, some artificial and some live, provided the safari element. From Adlington, the route was E across the M61 and Rivington Reservoir followed by a climb to Rivington Pike. The route was then SE to Wilderswood and SE to Horwich. The group then returned to Wilderswood via a different route, and then past Jepson’s Bridge along the Rotary Way for lunch (with seats and tables!) alongside the M61. The route continued across Douglas Valley Golf Club to White Hill Farm, past Allanson Hall, and along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal and Slack’s Farm, back to the start, and the Bay Horse for refreshments.
Sunday 23 October - Coach Trip to Kirkby Lonsdale
Thanks to Peter for organising this coach trip, and to the walk leaders Mike, Alan and Peter.
First to drop off was Mike's group of seven, for a linear walk from Beetham to Kirkby Lonsdale along the Limestone Link, with great views from the higher ground. The other two groups did circular walks from Devil's Bridge, at Kirkby Lonsdale. All three groups finished off by visiting Ruskin's View.
The weather was fine, and the group of 44 enjoyed an excellent meal at the Calf's Head after the walks.
Sunday 16 October - Watergrove (Easy : 7 miles)
Margaret Jones led a group of 9 on this walk, starting from Watergrove Reservoir. It was rainy at the start, but cleared up towards the end. The higher section was open and bleak, but the lower section was wooded and pretty.
Sunday 9 October - Cave Dale & the Great Ridge (Mod/Stren : 10 miles)
On a mainly dry day, with just one short shower at the end, John Talbot led a group of 18 (plus a dog) on this 10 mile walk. From Hope, the route was on paths to Castleton, and then SE along the Limestone Way. The direction was the N to Mam Tor, followed by a spectacular ridge walk, taking in Hollins Cross, Back Tor and Lose Hill. Finally, the route was SE, back to the start and the Woodroffe Arms.
Sunday 2 October - A Wharfedale Wander (Moderate : 12 miles)
On a brilliant warm and sunny October day, Ian Pickup led a group of 16 (plus one dog) on this walk. From Burnsall the route was W to Thorpe, Linton and Skirethorns, then E to Threshfield and Grassington, along Edge Lane and Tinkers’ Lane and then S through Hebden and Back Lane, and finally along the Wharfe back to Burnsall, and then sitting in the sun outside the Red Lion.
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Sunday 25 September - Homage to Wainwright – Part 1 (Mod/Stren : 14 miles)
Barbara Shelton, with her sister Viv, led a group of 15 on this 14 mile walk, in generally sunny weather but with a few heavy showers. From a lay-by to the west of Great Harwood, the route was N, circling Dean Clough Reservoir, and then W around Parsonage Reservoir. The route was then S, joining the towing path into Whitebirk, on the outskirts of Blackburn, to see the Birthplace of Alfred Wainwright, 1907-1991. The walk continued to Green Bank and SW to Magnoll’s Farm. The route was then E, skirting Oswaldtwistle and NE to Foxhill Bank. Finally the route turned N, crossing the M65 via the Dunkenhalgh Aqueduct, skirting Rishton and through Tottleworth and Dewhurst Farm, back to the start, and the Dog and Otter
Sunday 18 September - Pendleside Round (Mod/Stren : 11 miles)
Harry and Arlene Waddington led a group of 12 on this walk on a fine, autumn day. From Barrowford the route was to Higher Ridge Farm, Fulshaw Head Farm and via White Hough to Barley. From Barley, the route was west to Under Pendle, then north to Pendle House, and east to Lower Black Moss Reservoir. The route continued east past Black Moss Farm to Brown Hill and on to Blacko, and finally south past Water Meetings to the start.
Sunday 11 September - Rochdale Canal & Pennine Bridleway (Welcome Walk : 5.5 miles)
Mike Minett led a group of 11 on this welcome Walk, in fine weather. From Littleborough, the route included the Rochdale Canal, Lydgate, a section of the Pennine Bridleway, Syke and also Hollingworth Lake and Visitor Centre.
Sunday 4 September - White Peak from Monsall Head (Mod/Stren : 14 miles)
Jean Royle led a group of 18 on this walk. There was drizzle at the beginning, but after an hour it cleared up, and the afternoon was warm and sunny. From Monsall Head, the route was NW on the Monsall Trail to Cressbrook and then N and E to Wardlow. The route continued E and the S across Longstone Moor, and the E along Longstone Edge. The route was then S to Rowland and on to Holme Hall and a 20 minute break in Bakewell to have a drink or buy some tarts. The route continued W to Ashford In the Water to feed the fast-moving trout and the solitary duck. The route continued W along Pennyunk Lane and finally N back to Monsall Head.
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Sunday 28 August - Bradford Fell (Mod/Stren : 13 miles)
14 plus one dog were led on this walk by John Talbot, on a cloudy day, but with no rain. Underfoot it was often soggy. From Waddington, the route was west to Bradford Bridge, and then along the Ribble to Grindleton. The route returned west, this time on the south bank of the river, and from Bradford Bridge NW to Dove Syke and along Moor Lane to Bradford Fell 332m. The route was then to Sour Dock Hill, and then SE almost to Brocklehurst, but turning SW to Hancocks, and then SW past Eaves Farm House and back to Waddington, and the Higher Buck.
Sunday 21 August - Dunsop Bridge (Mod/Stren : 14 miles)
Mike Case led a group of 13 on this walk, in cloudy weather but mainly dry all day. From Dunsop Bridge, the route was N to Whitendale, then SW to Brennand Farm, followed by an ascent of Ouster Rake. The route was the W to Trough Barn, and on to Sykes Farm, Hareden Farm, New Hey Farm, Whitemore and Long Knots, before turning N past Burnholme and back to the start, and the Parkers Arms.
Sunday 14 August - Todmorden to Trough Edge End (Mod/Stren : 10 miles)
John Clements led a group of 20 (plus 1 dog) on this walk on a fine, breezy day. From Todmorden, the route was inevitably uphill to Gauxholme, continuing NW on Stones Lane to Speke Edge, and continuing along Parkin Lane and then Flower Scar Road to Sharneyford. The route was then S on Limers Gate to Trough Edge End, then E on Foul Clough Road to Brown Road Farm, then NE to descend to Gauxholme and finally along the Rochdale Canal back to Todmorden, and the White Hart.
Wednesday 10 August - Greenmount Circular
Dave Armstrong led a group of 14 (plus one dog) on the final midweek summer 2016 walk. The weather was good at the start, but the rain soon arrived and gradually became heavier, and by the time the walk finished at 9 pm it was beginning to get dark. It’s hard to believe it is still early August. From Greenmount, the route south was along the former railway track, and then east to Summerseat, crossing the Irwell by the new footbridge at the point where the Waterside pub used to be. The route was then through the woods to Holcombe Brook and finally circling back to Greenmount, and the Bull’s Head.
Sunday 7 August - Ingleborough Roundabout (Mod/Stren : 12 miles)
Norman Thomas, with Chris Langabeer, led a group of 23 on this walk, on a cool, very windy but dry day. From Clapham, the route was west on Laithbutts Lane to Newby and Cold Cotes, and then along Lowkber Lane, turning north-east joining Fell Lane, to reach the summit of Ingleborough (723m), battling against strong winds. The route continued south to Gaping Gill Hole, where lunch was taken, overlooking preparations by Craven Pothole Society for excursions down into the caves, which are offered to the public for 10 days, once each year. From Gaping Gill, there remained a scenic walk alongside Clapham Beck, back to the Clapham and the New Inn.
Sunday 7 August - Simister Circular (Welcome Walk : 5 miles)
Reg Norris led a group of five on this welcome walk, starting from the location of the former Three Arrows Pub in Simister.
Wednesday 3 August - Grant’s Tower
Pete Rowley led a group of 14 on this walk, with just a couple of showers to dampen the walkers. From Nangreaves, the route was to Summerseat and then on to Brooksbottom, Nuttall Park, ascending Jacob’s Ladder to cross the M66 via the footbridge, and then up to Grant’s Tower, before returning to the Lord Raglan.
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Sunday 31 July - A Taste of the Coast to Coast (Mod/Stren : 10 miles)
Simon Holder led a group of 7 on a 10 mile walk, but with a fair amount of ascent. Weather was fine apart from one shower. From Kirkby Stephen the route was south to Lockthwaite, then east across Nateby Common past Tailbridge Hill, turning north to ascend Nine Standards Rigg, where the enigmatic stones overlook Mallerstang and the Eden Valley. The route back was to the west along a section of the Coast-to-Coast path past Hartley Fell and back to Kirkby Stephen.
Wednesday 27 July - Pilgrims' Cross
Ed Husband led a group of 18 on this walk, on a fine evening. Starting from Lumb Carr Road, the route was initially along Moorbottom Road, and then climbing to Pilgrims' Cross. The walk continued to Ellen Strange's Cairn, Robin Hood's Well and back along Moor Road to the Shoulder of Mutton.
Sunday 24 July - Pennington Flash (Moderate : 9 miles)
Barbara McCormack led a group of 15 on this walk, on a day with intermittent brief showers. From Pennington Flash, the route was east along the Glazebrook Trail to Grange Farm and then south to Light Oaks Hall. The group then headed west to Carr Bridge, and north to Wood’s Farm, Dean’s Farm and back to Pennington Flash.
Wednesday 20 July - Cheetham Close
Dave Armstrong led a group of 18 (plus one dog) on this walk, on a fine evening. From Chapeltown the route was west and then north-west to reach the Enclosure and Stone Circle at Cheetham Close, with views of the yachts racing on Delph Reservoir below. From there, the route continued on the Rotary Way close to Dimple and then across Turton Heights to Three Lowes and back on the Witton Weavers Way to the Chetham Arms.
Sunday 17 July - Barnoldswick & Gisburn (Mod/Stren : 12 miles)
Jim Byrom led a group of 16 on this walk on a fine, summer’s day. From Letcliffe Country Park, near Barnoldswick, the route was east to Cockshott Bridge, then north to Geenber Field Bridge, west to Hawber and Bracewell, and then on to Gisburn. The route continued south to Talbot Hill, Far Green Hill and along Coal Pit Lane, culminating in an ascent of Weets Hill. Finally the route was north-east on Folly Lane, back to the start, and the Anchor Inn.
Wednesday 13 July - Around Crawshawbooth
John Clements led a group of 11 on this walk on a fine, cloudy evening. From Crawshawbooth, the route was naturally uphill to Pinner Clough, circling round Cribden Moor via Cribden Side and Cribden End, with the Panopticon Sculpture in the middle distance, and more distant views of Haslingden Grane. Finally, the route was downhill back to the start, and to the 200 year-old White Bull for refreshments.
Sunday 10 July - Around the Reservoirs (Easy : 8 miles)
Bill Hayden led a group of 16 on this walk on a fine day, with a hint of rain, which fortunately held off until the walk was finished. From Turton Towers, the route was NW on the Witton Weaver’s Way, and then a clockwise circuit of Turton and Entwistle Reservoir, followed by a walk down the E side of Wayoh Reservoir past Edgworth to Turton Bottoms, and finally returning to Turton Towers.
Wednesday 6 July - Two Valleys Walk
Peter Rowley led a group of 14 on this walk, on a fine evening. From Woolfold the route was along the Kirklees Trail towards Tottington, and then on paths to cross the B6214 and head towards Summerseat. At Wood Road the group crossed the Irwell and the railway to join the Sculpture Trail into Burrs, and finally rejoined the Kirklees Trail back to the start.
Sunday 3rd July - Fountains Fell (Strenuous : 13 miles)
Alan Pilling led a group of 17 on this walk on a dry day, but with a cold wind on the tops. From Stainforth the route was NE to Churn Milk Hole, then E on the Pennine Way to Rainscar and Blishmire Close, continuing to the summit of Fountains Fell. The route continued SE to Tennant Gill, then W past Cattrigg Force and over the stepping stones back to Stainforth.
Sunday 3rd July - Hollingworth Lake (Welcome Walk : 5 miles)
Margaret Jones led a group of 6 on this Welcome Walk, on a cloudy summer's day.
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Wednesday 29 June - Hawkshaw Circular
On a fine evening, after heavy rain for most of the day, Paul Tarry led a group of 19 on a pleasant 4-mile amble. From Hawkshaw, the route was south on Two Brooks Lane, past Two Brooks Farm and to the south of Holly Mount to join the B6213. The route was then to Brook House Bridge, Holly Mount Farm, and north, crossing the A676 to then loop round back to the start. The walkers then finished off the evening in the Waggon and Horses, and some of the group enjoyed a “Last Supper” as the pub is due to close down next week, and will re-open in possibly a different guise under new management. For a gpx file of the route.
Sunday 26th June - Coach Trip to Bowness
Thanks to Jim Byrom for organising this coach trip, and to Walk Leaders, John Clements, Ian Pickup and Peter Rowley. First to drop off was a group of 8 for the "A" walk of 15 miles to Bowness, led by John Clements. The route was east-to-west via Patton Bridge, Burneside, Bowston, Hagg Foot, New Hall, Crag House, and Cleabarrow. Next to drop-off near Berneside was a group of 12 for the "B" walk of 10 miles to Bowness, led by Ian Pickup. The route was the same as the "A" walk, but without the first few miles. Finally, a group of 10 went on the "C" walk plus boat trip from Bowness, led by Peter Rowley. Others on the coach did their own walks, or tours of the Bowness shops and cafes. The weather was good in the morning, but there was some rain in the afternoon. Most finished off the day in either the Albert or the Royal Oak.
Wednesday 22 June - Around Edenfield
Jim Byrom led a group of 20 on this walk on a fine evening, starting and finishing at the Duckworth Arms in Edenfield.
Sunday 19th June - Rough Haw & Sharp Haw (Mod/Stren : 12 miles)
Chris Langabeer led a group of 22 on this walk. The weather was fine for most of the day with just a brief flurry of rain, but after the walk finished the rain gradually became heavier. Starting and finishing at the Craven Heifer to the north of Skipton, the route was through the village of Eshton to reach the Leeds-Liverpool canal for a short walk along the towpath. Just before Gargrave it left the canal and headed through Gambers Wood to reach Friars Head Hall (built circa 1670) with its ‘giants’ graves’. From here Flasby was reached before a climb to the summit of Sharp Haw. There followed another short climb to the trig point on the summit of Rough Haw. Finally a short section of the Dales High Way led back to the start.
Wednesday 15 June - The Old Maggot Farm.
Dave Armstrong led a group of 24 on this walk, on a fine evening, although rain was in the area, and arrived later, after the walk was finished. From Hawkshaw, the route was circular to the north, passing a number of farms including the Old Maggot Farm. The group finished off the evening in the Waggon and Horses.
Sunday 12th June - Ringing Roger (Mod/Stren : 12 miles)
Kepa Kinsler and Chris Hayes led a group of 9 on this walk. It was warm and humid, with a heavy shower lasting about 2 hours in the middle of the day, but otherwise dry. From the Mam Tor car park , the route was to Mam Tor and Hollins Cross, descending and then walking through Edale and climbing to The Nab and then to Ringing Roger and on to Nether Tor. The route was then west to Edale Head and then south to Edale Rocks, Swine’s Back, Brown Knoll and Rushup Edge. The final stretch was a spectacular walk to the east along Rushup Edge, back to the start.
Wednesday 8 June - Greenmount & Hawkshaw Round.
Dorothy France led a group of 23 on this walk on a fine evening. However, there had been torrential rain during the day, so underfoot it was wet.
From Greenmount, the route took in Two Brooks Valley, Hawkshaw and Holly Mount, before returning to the Bull’s Head for refreshments.
Sunday 5th June - Dimple (Moderate : 10 miles)
Brian Seaborne led a group of 19 on this walk in warm, sunny weather. From Crookfield Road car park, the route was south along the Witton Weaver’s Way to Dimple, then north-east to Turton and Entwistle Reservoirs for lunch. The route was then west along the reservoir and then rejoining the Witton Weaver’s way back to the start, and for refreshments at the Black Dog at Belmont.
Wednesday 1 June - Nangreaves Flyer
Ray Bangbala led a group of 25 on this walk, on a fine evening. From Nangreaves, the route was N on Bury Old Road to Pinfold, and then via footpaths to Grant’s Tower. From there, the group dropped down to and then along the road, and down the footpath which led over the M66 and down Jacob’s Ladder into Nuttall Park. From there, the route continued on footpaths to Brooksbottoms, and over the new footbridge to Lower Summerseat and Nabbs Farm, crossing the A56 and continuing to Baldingstone, and back over the M66 and uphill back to Nangreaves and the Lord Raglan.
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Sunday 29th May - Cowm Canter (Mod/Stren : 12 miles)
Ed Husband led a group of 16 on this walk, on a warm, sunny and dry day. Underfoot it was generally good. From Stubbylee Park near Bacup, the route was on paths alongside the A6066 to Shawforth and Millgate, climbing up for a morning stop overlooking Cowm Reservoir. After descending to Whitworth, there was a gradual ascent via Cock Hall and Goats Hill Quarry to finally arrive at the Rooley Moor Road. The route was then on the Rossendale Way, pausing for lunch overlooking Cowpe Reservoir. The route continued to Black Hill, and on to Rake Head, and finally following the Sculpture Trail back to Bacup.
Wednesday 25th May - Outwood
John Talbot led a group of 13 (plus one dog) on this walk, with intermittent drizzle throughout. From Whitefield, the route was SE alongside the golf course to Hole Bottom and then W past the cemetery to Worsley Hil and Carter’s Hill. There was then a loop S to the disused sewage works, NW past Nuttall Wood and Lower Heap’s Farm to Outwood, the E to Outwood Gate and Stand, and S on Old Hall Lane back to Carter’s Hill to complete the loop. The route back from there was then the reverse of the route out.
Sunday 22nd May - Clitheroe Circular (Moderate : 11 miles )
Dave Capell led a group of 19 on this walk on a sunny day. From Clitheroe the route was NE to Bradford Bridge, and then along the north and west bank of the Ribble to Sawley. From Sawley, the route was south-east to Downham Bridge and then south-west to Chatburn. From there, the route was north to Bond Hurst Wood, and then west, this time on the south bank of the Ribble, before returning to Clitheroe.
Wednesday 18th May - Wild Garlic Valley
Ed Husband led a group of 21 on this walk in fine weather. From Ramsbottom, the route was by footpaths to Holcombe Brook, ascending onto the Moorbottom Road and then down Holcombe Village, before returning to Ramsbottom and the Irwell Works Brewery. There was plenty of wild garlic along the route.
Sunday 15th May - Three Reservoirs (Moderate : 12 miles )
Norman Thomas, with Chris Langabeer, led a group of 19 on this walk, on a sunny, warm and dry day. From Jumbles Country Park, the route was south to Bromley Cross, and then north to Turton Tower, west to Cheetham Close, north to Turton and Entwistle Reservoir, west to cross and then re-cross the A666 and head back to the Strawbury Duck, and then south alongside Wayoh Reservoir to Turton Bottoms, and finally back to Jumbles.
Sunday 8th May - Padiham (Moderate : 10 miles )
Barbara McCormack led a group of 11 on this walk in fine weather. The walk started from the car park in Ightenhill Street, off the A671 in Padiham. It then followed the River Calder, visiting Fence, and headed towards Lower Sabden Fold, before returning via Whitaker Farm.
Sunday 1st May - Coach Trip to Grange-over-Sands
A total of 38 walkers joined the coach to Grange-over-Sands, organised efficiently as always by Peter Rowley. First to drop off was a group of 17 led by Ed Husband. From near Levens Hall, the group walked a largely flat 11 mile walk to Grange along the Cumbria Coastal Path, with views across Morecambe Bay. Next was a group of seven led by Alan Pilling, on a circular walk from Grange with over 1500 feet of ascent. Finally, a group of 14, led by Jean Tarry, did a linear walk from Cark to Cartmel and then on to Grange, taking in the Hospice on Hampsfell. The weather was bad, with continuous rain all day, so everyone received a soaking. The three groups then relaxed around the town, mainly in the Commodore Hotel, before the journey back to Bury.
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Sunday 24th April - Levadas from Oxenhope! (Mod/Stren : 12 miles )
Chris Hayes and Kepa Kinsler led a group of 13 on this walk, in cool, windy weather with just a bit of rain at the outset. From the start on the A6033 near Sun Hill, the route was E to Sunnybank, then N past Leeming Reservoir to the east of Oxenhope. The route was then NW along Dark Lane, Railway Children Walk and the Bronte Way to to outskirts of Haworth, followed by a long stretch SW across Haworth Moor to Harbour Lodge, and then a short stretch N to the Bronte Falls for lunch. The walk continued SW to Top Withens, then E to Harbour Hill, continuing S and E back to the start, and for some, the Robin Hood at Pecket Well.
Sunday 17th April - Hellifield (Moderate : 10 miles )
Barbara McCormack led a group of 21 on this walk, in mainly sunny weather, but cold at first. From Hellifield, the route was NE on Haw Lane, SE to Hull House and then E to Wennigber and Otterburn. The route continued N to Scosthrop Lane, then W on Orms Gill Green Lane to Crake Moor, and then S to Bookilber Barn, Rangeber Hill, Water Fall Rock, and Little Newton, crossing the railway again and finally back into Hellifield and the George Inn.
Sunday 10th April - Once Bittern Twice Shy! (Mod/Stren : 14 miles )
A group of 15 met at Crag Road car park in Warton for this walk led by Norman Thomas. In bright sunshine (which remained with us all day) the walk started by ascending Warton Crag followed by a descent to pass Leighton Hall. The path over Leighton Moss was taken before crossing a golf course to lead to Gait Barrows National Nature Reserve. The next objective was Arnside Knott from where superb views across the Kent estuary were obtained. After descending from Arnside Knott the route skirted Far Arnside and Silverdale, and crossed Quaker's Stang to reach Crag Foot.Finally the walk headed eastwards through predominantly wooded country as far as a minor road near 'The Piggeries'. It was then downhill all the way back to Warton and, for most, the George Washington.
Sunday 3 April - Cown Edge Rocks (Mod/Stren: 13 miles )
John Talbot lead a group of 17 on this walk in warm, sunny and dry weather. The walk started and finished at Etherow Country Park, Compstall. The route initially took the Midshires Way and the Peak Forest Canal before crossing the River Goyt. The Cown Edge Way was then followed through Mellor to ‘Robin Hood’s Picking Rods’ and then went on to Cown Edge Rocks and Coombes Edge. The return route was via Higher Chisworth and Etherow Country Park, and then the excellent Stock Dove. Sunday 3 April - Heaton Park (Welcome Walk: 5-6 miles )
Jean Royle led a group of 12 on this walk around a busy Heaton Park on a sunny day. Nine of the group had not walked with Bury Ramblers previously.
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Sunday 27 March - Shining Tor & the Goyt Valley (Mod/Stren : 13 miles )
Ian Pickup led a group of 17 on this walk. Conditions underfoot were wet, and there were outbreaks of heavy rain during the day, with a cold wind. From Whaley Bridge, the route was south past Toddbrook Reservoir to Walker Brow and climbing west onto Taxal Moor, and then south along Taxal Edge and The Torrs to Shining Tor. The group then headed south-east and then north-east to Errwood Reservoir for lunch. After lunch, the route continued north, to the west of Errwood Reservoir and then Fernilee Reservoir and the Goyt Valley, back to the start, and the Goyt Inn.
Sunday 20 March - A Burrs Round (Easy : 8 miles )
Brian Seaborne led a group of 23 on this walk. The weather was fine and warm for the time of year. From Burrs Country Park, the route was north on the Sculpture Trail to Nuttall Park, and then ascending Jacob’s Ladder and continuing uphill to Grant’s Tower. From there, the route continues to Buckhurst Farm and Cob House Farm, and then west over the M66 and across the A56 and back into Burrs, and the Brown Cow.
Sunday 13 March - North Yorkshire Circular (Moderate: 12 miles )
Alan Pilling led a group of 17 on this walk, in lovely spring sunshine. From Langcliffe, we stopped for elevenses at Catrigg Force waterfall, before dropping down into Stainforth. The climb up to Smearsett Scar was only rewarded with hazy views and lunch was taken on the edge of Feizor Wood, with great views of snow-covered Penyghent and Fountains Fell. The route back was a high-level walk above Giggleswick Scar before dropping down to cross the River Ribble and the railway bridge into Langcliffe.
Sunday 13 March - Rivington Manor House & Memorial (Welcome Walk: 5-6 miles )
Dave Armstrong led a group of 10 on this walk. There were two new people, Maurice and Cath, who said they will come on other walks in the program. The weather was on our side for once, allowing us to enjoy the views and sunshine. The route was from the visitor centre to Rivington Village, Lower Rivington Bridge, Yarrow Reservoir, Anglezarke Dam, High Bullough Reservoir, Manor House, Jepson’s Gate, Memorial, Allance Bridge, Dean Wood House, Arboretum Path and back to the Rivington Visitor Centre.
Sunday 6 March - Piethorne Clough & White Hill (Easy : 9 miles )
Dave Capell led a group of 12 on this 9 mile walk, in mainly sunny weather, but cold and with snow underfoot, sometimes quite deep, for most of the day. From Ogden Reservoir, the route was north and then north-east along Tunshill Lane and the Rochdale Way to Windy Hill, joining the Pennine Way. The route was then south to Green Hole Hill, and south-east across White Hill to the B6114. After a short walk along the road to the west, footpaths were taken past Readycon Dean Reservoir to the A672, and after a short walk to the south, the Rochdale Way was taken past Piethorne, Kitcliffe and Ogden Reservoirs back to the start.
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Sunday 28 February - Castle Hill from Honley (Moderate : 10 miles )
Simon Holder led a group of 11 on this walk on a fine, winter’s day. From Honley, the route was south to Netherthong, then east to Brockholes and Thurstonland, north to Farnley Tyas, Farnley Bank and west to the tower on Castle Hill, and finally south-west back to the start.
Sunday 21 February - Solomon’s Temple (Moderate : 11 miles )
John Talbot led a group of 8 on this walk. The forecast was for rain, but there was only one short shower during the walk, the heavy rain holding off until the journey back in the car. Temperatures were mild for the time of year, but there were strong winds.
From Buxton the route was south to Solomon’s Temple, then west on the Dane Valley Way to Ladmanlow, crossing the A53 and A54, and then heading north to Goyt’s Moss and on towards Errwood Reservoir. Finally the route turned east along the dismantled railway to Watford Wood, Nithen End, and back into Buxton and the Wye Bridge House.
Sunday 14 February - 2 R's Train Walk (Moderate : 11 miles )
Ed Husband led a group of 18 on this walk, in fine, sunny weather, but around freezing point at the start. From Ramsbottom, the group took the East Lancashire Railway train to Rawtenstall, and from there walked to Waterfoot (along the Sculpture Trail), and then ascended to Black Hill, circling Cowpe Lowe, and then taking Sand Beds Lane, descended to Irwell Vale for lunch. The afternoon involved an ascent to Robin Hood’s Well, and a walk along Moor Road, and finally a descent on the path behind the Shoulder of Mutton back to Ramsbottom, and the Railway Hotel.
Sunday 7 February - A Little Cracker (Moderate : 11 miles )
Norman Thomas, with Ian Pickup, led a group of 16 on this 11 mile walk. The weather was good, although cold and windy, but the expected rain held off until the walk was finished, and we were in “The Ale House.” From Georges Lane (opposite the Jolly Crofters), the route was north on the Rotary Way to Winter Hill, continuing to Belmont, then south to Grange Brow, Whimberry Hill, and west past the reservoir which includes the local holiday resort of Bolton Beach, and on this walk a (temporarily) lost hat. From Bolton Beach, the route was past Holden’s Farm, Brown Lowe, Walker Fold, Burnt Edge, and finally Marsden’s Farm (and the encroaching stone quarry) taking us back to the start.
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Sunday 31 January - Todmorden to Hebden Bridge (Moderate : 10 miles )
John Clements led a group of 11 on this walk on a rainy day, generally misty, but with some dry spells. From Todmorden, the route was N, uphill to Hole Bottom, then NW along the Calderdale Way to Stannalley Stones, and then N to the Bride Stones. The group then walked E along the road, and N along Dukes Cut to Four Gates End, and NW to Noah Dale. The route was then NE to Egypt, and then SE along Edge Lane to High Gate, and S to Jack Bridge. The route continued E and then SE along Colden Clough, emerging onto the A646, on the outskirts of Hebden Bridge, to catch the bus back to Todmorden.
Sunday 24 January - Barrowford & Barley (Moderate : 10 miles )
Jim Byrom led a group of 16 on this walk in dry weather, warm for the time of year, but underfoot it was muddy, and stiles were very slippery. From Barrowford, the route was initially on the Pendle Way to Water Meetings, continuing to Blacko Foot Farm, Admergill, Jackson’s House, Firber House, Helliwell Wood, Mountain Farm, Lower Black Moss and Overhouses Farm to Barley. From Barley, the route continued east to White Hough, Old Hall Farm, West Pasture and back to Barrowford and the George and Dragon.
Sunday 17 January - Tottington Round (Moderate : 12 miles )
Jean Royle led a group of 11 on this walk. The weather was cold, around zero degrees C, and snow had fallen overnight, so it was slippery underfoot, but not icy. From Tottington, the route was to Tower Farm, Hollymount, Croichley Fold, Two Brooks Farm and then Affetside for a morning break. The route continued west to Jumbles Reservoir, and then north, branching west past Turton Tower and then north again on the Witton Weavers way to Turton and Entwistle Reservoir for lunch. The walk continued south-east past Wayoh Reservoir to Turton Bottoms, and then east to Hawkshaw, and then south-east, passing Two Brooks Farm again, and finally back to Tottington.
Sunday 10 January - Strongstry Stroll (Moderate : 11 miles )
14 started the Strongstry Stroll walk, led by Ed Husband. From Ramsbottom, the route was through paths and woods to Holcombe Brook, and then climbing onto the Moorbottom Road for a morning break. There was a further ascent to Pilgrims Cross, and onward to the lonely cairn, dedicated to Ellen Strange, murdered at this spot in 1761. The tradition is for each visitor to add a stone to the cairn. The route continued to Robin Hood’s Well, followed by a descent from the moor into Irwell Vale, recently savaged by floods. Irwell Vale lies at the confluence of two rivers, the Irwell and the Ogden. The group continued over the bridge, with still-warm tarmac, to take lunch at Irwell Vale Station, where photographers and others were awaiting the arrival of the newly-refurbished Flying Scotsman. The group continued to Strongstry, and then taking the higher path past the Tentering Tower into Stubbins, encountering a group from Oldham Ramblers. The final stretch was on a muddy path along the Irwell, back to Ramsbottom.
Sunday 3 January - Turton & Jumbles (Welcome Walk : 5 miles )
There had been a lot of rain and flooding leading up to this walk. Normally the first walk of the year is a popular one, but rain meant that only 10 resolute walkers turned out, including 3 new to Bury Ramblers. The walk was led by Mike Minett, and was circular from Turton Tower to Jumbles, returning via the Last Drop Village and Torra Barn. The group did enjoy a nice hot drink and cooked breakfast at the Victorian tea rooms at the end, which made a change from the pub.