For photo(s) from the walk(s), see month
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Sunday 20 December - Three Villages Heritage Walk (Moderate: 11 miles )
This is a walk devised by an organisation called Colne Connected and links the three villages of Foulridge, Laneshaw Bridge and Trawden.
Ian Pickup led group of 13 on this walk, in fine, sometimes sunny weather, mild for December, but with very wet underfoot conditions. From Foulridge, the route was initially N and then E to Close House Farm, and then S down Cockhill Lane to Law Hill, and E to Laneshaw Bridge. From there the route continued S on the Pendle Way to Wycoller. After a coffee stop, the route continued SW to Hollin Hall and N to Trawden and then NW to Carry Bridge, and finally N across the reservoir to Foulridge.
Sunday 13 December - Christmas Lunch and Walk (Easy: 4 miles )
Jean Royle led a group of 24 on the walk. The rain just managed to stay off until the end, but underfoot it was slippery, after all of the recent rain. Half way round, Jean dispensed mulled wine to the group, and Tracey handed out mince pies. The route started and finished at the Queen Anne. It headed initially over the M66 to Castle House, then E to Meadow Croft Fold and NW along Moss Hall Road to Three Lane Ends. It continued W past Brightley Brook Reservoir and back across the M66. A few non-walkers joined, and then the group enjoyed their Christmas Lunch at The Queen Anne. Thanks to Jean and to Tracey for the walk and the meal.
Sunday 6 December - Horwich to Hollywood & Back! (Moderate: 11 miles )
Chris Langabeer led a group of 7 on this walk, in mild weather for the time of year, and with rain in the morning but fine weather later on. The walk started along Fleet Street and passed Bolton Old Links Golf Club to arrive at Lostock Hall (dating from Elizabethan times). From there the walk proceeded across Regents Park Golf Course to reach Hollywood Lodge. It continued over Smithills Moor, and then descended through Wilderswood and back to the start.
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Sunday 29 November - A Ramsbottom Round (Easy: 7 miles )
Brian Seaborne led a group of 8 on this walk, on a very wet day. From Ramsbottom, the route was initially along the Irwell to Stubbins, Strongstry and Irwell Vale for a morning break. The route continued along the River Ogden to Snig Hole, Hollin Bank, Tor End and Robin Hood's Well for lunch. The route was then south to Holcombe Village, down through Tagg Wood and back to the start.
Sunday 22 November - Yet Another Chilly Winter’s Day! (Moderate: 12 miles )
Roy Davies led a group of 9 on this walk on a fine, winter's day with no rain.
From Ramsbottom, the route was via Grants’ Tower, Harden Moor, the Rossendale Way, Bleakholt, Stubbins, Buckden Woods & Holcombe Moor before returning to Ramsbottom.
Sunday 22 November - Turton (Easy: 8 miles )
Bill Hayden led a group of 12 on this walk, in cold but sunny weather. The walk started from the Barlow Institute, Edgworth. From the Institute the route led to Jumbles Reservoir, Turton Tower, Chapeltown, Wayoh Reservoir & Hill Top before returning to Edgworth.
Sunday 15 November - Pendle’s Paths, Hamlets & Views (Moderate: 10 miles )
Harry and Arlene Waddington's magnificent seven took part in this very wet walk, in rainy weather for the morning and early afternoon, but thankfully clearing up for the last couple of hours of the walk. Underfoot conditions were very wet after the recent rain from "Storm Abigail" and all of the rivers were in full spate. Starting from Barrowford, the route initially followed Pendle Water to Water Meetings, and then through Blacko Village, before climbing to a viewpoint on Brown Hill. The route passed the outdoor centre at White Hough before reaching Barley, where an early lunch was taken because of the seats, and more importantly the shelter from the rain. The paths then led close to Newchurch, followed by a descent to Clarion House and a short climb to Noggarth Cottage. The return to Barrowford was via Sandy Lane, and along the Leeds-Liverpool Canal.
Sunday 8 November - Coach Trip - Horton-in-Ribblesdale
Thanks to Peter Rowley for organising this coach trip, and to the walk leaders Mike, Ed and Peter. The weather was awful, rain and wind for most of the day. However, the group of 40 who were on the coach, plus some extras who unfortunately had to miss out on the walks, enjoyed a fine meal at the Calf's Head afterwards, to compensate for the less-than-perfect weather. No photos unfortunately, because of the rain.
Sunday 1 November - Clayton-le-Moors (Moderate: 11 miles )
Barbara McCormack led a group of 14 on this 11 mile walk in generally good weather, albeit misty at times. Underfoot it was soggy on a few occasions. The walk started from Warwick Avenue in Clayton – le- Moors. The terrain on the route included woodland, pasture, parkland and riverside. Great Harwood, Read and Altham were visited during the walk.
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Sunday 25 October - Holden Wood Reservoir (Welcome walk: 6 miles )
Dave Armstrong led a group of 17 on this Welcome Walk, in cloudy but dry weather. From the car park, the route was across the Grane Road, and the dam to the Rossendale Way, and then up to The Chimney and along Musbury Heights and up to Hog Lowe Pike. The descent led back to the Rossendale Way and then back to the start.
Sunday 18 October - Hollingworth Lake Circular (Moderate: 12 miles )
Ian Pickup led a group of 17 on this walk.
The walk started from the Hollingworth Lake Visitor Centre pay & display car park. An outline of the route taken was: From the car park to Whittaker Golf Course – Lydgate – Higher Chelburn Reservoir – Rochdale Canal past Warland to Stone House Bridge – south on Pennine Bridleway above Summit Tunnel to Summit – Rochdale Canal to Smithy Bridge – round southern and eastern edges of Hollingworth Lake back to the car park.
Sunday 11 October - The Wycoller Atom (Mod/Stren: 13 miles )
Barbara Shelton, with the able assistance of her sister Viv as back marker, led a varied walk with plenty of interesting stops, on a fine October day. Starting from Ball Grove Country Park & Nature Reserve, the walk headed off to Trawden, with a brief halt for Harry and Arlene to give directions to a white van driver, and a morning stop in the Peace Garden. The route carried on south to pick up the Pendle/Bronte Way. There was then an ascent of Boulsworth Hill, pausing for lunch, before dropping back down to head north-east. After going down the valley towards Wycoller, with a cafe and shopping stop, the route continued to the eponymous Atom Panopticon, and on to the Pendle Way, Colne Water and back to the start, where the group relaxed in the Cotton Tree.
Sunday 4 October - Bickershaw (Moderate: 10 miles )
Barbara McCormack led a group of 12 on this walk on a fine, warm autumn day. The route was initially along the Leeds-Liverpool canal towpath as far as Gerrards Bridge, and from there a combination of field paths, farm tracks and woodland led to Bickershaw. The route continued through Bickershaw along the B5237 towards Abram. From the B5237, a track on the left was taken at Pear Tree Farm, and then crossing similar terrain to reach Dover and on to Edge Green, heading towards Golborne. The route continued past Lightshaw Hall, and went through the grounds of Appletree Stables. Finally a woodland path led back to the towpath and the car park.
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Sunday 27 September - Downham & Sawley (Mod/Stren: 12 miles )
Jim Byrom led a group of 11 on this walk in warm sunny weather. The route was modified from the one planned, and went from Downham, north-west to Downham Green, Greenhead Farms and Sawley, and then north-east along the Ribble Way to Gisburn Cotes, then south-east to Newby and Ox-Close Farm, then west to Hollins, Hey House Farm and back to Downham. Most of the group ended the afternoon sitting outside the Assheton Arms in the sunshine, for an after-walk drink.
Sunday 20 September - Anglezarke & Great Hill (Mod/Stren: 12 miles )
Mike Minett led a group of 7 on this walk, which started at Great House Barn car park, Rivington. The route followed Rivington and Anglezarke reservoirs to White Coppice. It then climbed to Great Hill before returning via Spitlers Edge and Yarrow reservoir.
Sunday 13 September - Winsford & Vale Royal (Strenuous: 16 miles )
Ian Gorner led a group of 4 on this walk. The walk started in the centre of Winsford and can be said to be in the heart of Cheshire. The first part took little-used paths to Little Budworth. Next it went to Marton Hole before joining the Whitegate Way which led through fields to Valeroyal Park. Finally it followed the Weaver Navigation and then rejoined the Whitegate Way back into Winsford.
Sunday 6 September - Hathersage Moor (Moderate: 11 miles )
On a brilliant summer's day, John Talbot led a group of 8 on this walk. From Hathersage, the route initially followed the River Derwent, and then went through woodland to Padley, where refreshments were available at Grindleford Station cafe. Next the route followed Burbage Brook to Toad’s Mouth, before ascending to Carl Wark and Higger Tor in turn. From Higger Tor the walk proceeded to Burbage Bridge from which point there was a gradual climb onto Stanage Edge. After walking along Stanage Edge, the route descended along the Long Causeway and, finally, continued along footpaths to return to Hathersage.
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Sunday 30 August - The Road to Wigan Pier (Moderate: 10 miles )
Ed Husband led a group of 12 on this walk in good weather. From Haigh Country Park, there was a gentle walk across country to join the Leeds Liverpool Canal at Standish Lower Ground, and then a walk along the canal towpath through the middle of Wigan for lunch near Trencherfield Mill. The route then continued with an uphill stretch alongside a series of locks on the canal as far as The Kirklees Inn, for an afternoon break. The group then walked the short distance to Top Lock, followed by a final flat stretch on the canal, and a stroll through Haigh Hall Park back to the start. Three of those who came to the Interchange did not make it to the start of the walk due to of lack of cars. Members are encouraged, if this is not a long diversion, to come to Bury Interchange, rather than travel on their own to the start point, so that lifts are available to those without cars.
Sunday 23 August - Lyme Park (Moderate: 12 miles )
Jean Royle led a group of 14 on this walk, on a mainly fine, breezy day with just one short but heavy shower.
Underfoot conditions were good.
The walk started from the main car park at Lyme Park, and proceeded through farm land to Rainowlow, with views of Bollington and Pott Shrigley.
Sunday 16 August - Coach Trip to Staveley
On a fine August day, 30 joined the coach to Staveley, organised by Chris Langabeer. 11 left at Tebay Services to walk the 14 miles to Staveley, led by Ian Pickup. 14 left at Huck's Bridge to walk the 10 miles to Staveley, led by Ed Husband. 5 remained to leave the coach at Bannisdale Low Bridge, to walk the 8 miles to Staveley, led by Dave Capell. All three groups came together to enjoy the hospitality of the Eagle and Child, sitting outside in the sunshine, until the coach arrived to take them back to Bury.
Sunday 9 August - Roddlesworth Woods (Welcome Walk: 5-6 miles )
Mike Minett led a group of 7 on this welcome walk in fine weather. The walk started from the car park next to the Royal Arms PH, Tockholes Road, Ryal Fold. It was a circular walk through Roddlesworth Woods, going via the ruins of Hollinshead Hall.
Sunday 2 August - Ingleborough Roundabout (Mod/Stren: 12 miles )
Norman Thomas, with Ian Pickup, led a group of 17 on this walk. The weather was fine in the morning, but wet in the afternoon, the rain eventually stopping during the final walk back.
The walk started and finished at Clapham, and proceeded to Ingleborough summit, by way of Ingleborough Cave, Gaping Gill and Little Ingleborough. The return to Clapham was via Sulber Nick and Long Scar. Sunday 2 August - Stocks Reservoir Circular (Easy: 8 miles )
Brian Seaborne led a group of 6 on this walk. The weather was cloudy and showery. The route started from the car park at the end of School Lane, at the eastern side of Stocks Reservoir, and from that point consisted of a circuit of the reservoir.
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Sunday 26 July - Blackstone Edge (Mod/Stren: 12 miles )
John Talbot led a group of 12 on this walk. The weather was fine at first, but the predicted rain arrived about 1pm and continued for the rest of the afternoon. From Baitings Reservoir, the route was across the dam, and then across Rishworth Moor by way of Cat Moss. After following the Old Packhorse Road for a while the route turned at the Aiggin Stone to take Blackstone Edge as far as the M62 motorway, before following the track to Green Withins Reservoir. From there, Blackwood Edge Road was taken as far as Blackwood Edge, followed by a descent to Ryburn Reservoir. The length of the reservoir was walked before a steep climb to Higher Wormald. It was then just a short walk back across Baitings dam to the car park.
Wednesday 22 July - Pilgrims’ Cross
Ed Husband led a group of 19 on the final walk of the summer evening programme, on a fine evening. From the car park on Lumb Carr Road, the route was initially along Moorbottom Road, past Bank Top and Taylor’s Farm, onto Holcombe Moor. pausing at Pilgrims Cross. From there the route continued to Ellen Strange's Cairn and Robin Hood's Well, then along Moor Road, past Holcombe Village and, for most of the group, to the Shoulder of Mutton.
Sunday 19 July - Ainsdale Amble via ‘Another Place’ (Mod/Stren: 14 miles )
John Clements led a group of 9 on this walk, on a fine day. This linear walk started at Ainsdale railway station. It took the coastal path to Crosby via Formby nature reserve and Anthony Gormley’s ‘Another Place’, passing Altcar rifle range on the way. The return to Ainsdale was by train.
Sunday 19 July - Village Linking (Moderate: 8 miles )
Janet Brady led this walk. The walk started in Nuttall Park. The walk took in Jacob's Ladder, Grants Tower, Rowlands Road, Summerseat, Woodhey School, Redisher Woods, Moorbottom Road and the top of Holcombe Hill. Finally it descended to Ramsbottom via Carr.
Wednesday 15 July - Jumbles via Walves & Birches
Dave Armstrong led the penultimate evening walk of Summer 2015, in what looks from the pictures to be fine weather. The walk started from the Waggon & Horses PH, Hawkshaw, and proceeded via Hawkshaw Lane, Lower Houses, Top of Quarlton, Quarlton Fold Farm, Birches Farm, Jumbles CP, Bradshaw Fisheries, Bradshaw Road, Crompton’s, Pack Horse, Tom’s Cattery, Higher Barn Farm and finally back to the Waggon & Horses.
Sunday 12 July - Great Mitton Circular (Easy: 8 miles )
Bill Hayden led a group of 12 on this 8 mile walk, in good weather. From Clitheroe, the route was west to the river Ribble, crossing to the west side by Stephen Bridge, and then south past Edisford Hall, Fulshaw Wood and Malkin Lane, to Great Mitton, crossing via the bridge to the east side of the river. The second half of the walk was north along the east bank of the river past Shuttleworth Farm, Fishes and Peggy Hill, Siddows Hall and Chorley House back to the start.
Wednesday 8 July - Edenfield & Surrounds
Jim Byrom led a group of 18 on this walk, in fine weather. From the Duckworth Arms, the route was north on Hollins Lane, past Dearden Clough and along Gin Croft Lane, descending to Irwell Vale, and then by lanes and paths through Lumb, Strongstry, Stubbins and back to the start.
Sunday 5 July - Pen-y-Ghent (Mod/Stren: 11 miles )
Alan Pilling led a group of 9 on this walk. There was great weather, bright with a nice breeze, and superb all-round views on Pen-y-Ghent. It was dry underfoot, and for four of the group, first time on Pen-y-Ghent and Hull Pot. The expected rain arrived about 10 minutes into the drive home!
The route was from Horton-in-Ribblesdale, taking the Ribble Way to Helwith Bridge, before climbing Long Lane and part of the Pennine Way to reach the summit of Pen-y-Ghent. From Pen-y-Ghent the walk continued to Plover Hill. The return route was via Foxup, the Horton Moors and Horton Scar.
Wednesday 1 July - Wild Garlic Valley
Ed Husband led a group of 17 on this walk, on a very hot July evening. Thundery rain had been predicted as a possibility, but fortunately the thunder did not arrive until later.
The route was through Nuttall Park and along the Sculpture Trail, then through woods to Holcombe Brook, climbing to Hey House, and then down to Holcombe Village, and back down to Ramsbottom. The group finished off the evening in The Railway.
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Sunday 28 June - Chipping (Strenuous: 16 miles )
Jim Byrom led a group of 5 on this walk, with rain in the morning, but fine and windy in the afternoon. From Chipping the route was north to High Barn, and then east on the Lancashire Bridleway, and north to Dinkling Green Farm and Whitemoor, through the forest to Hareden Farm, and meeting the road from Dunsop Bridge. It continued west alongside Langden Brook, to the ruins of Langden Castle, followed by an ascent alongside Fiendsdale Water to Fiendsdale Head. From there, the route was south to Fairsnape Fell and Blindhurst Fell to Parlick. Descending from Parlick, there was finally a walk along lanes and paths back to Chipping, and a welcome drink at the Tillotsons Arms.
Sunday 28 June - Ainsworth & Gorsey Clough (Welcome Walk: 5-6 miles )
Jean Ashton led a group of 10 this Welcome Walk from Ainsworth, including four "new faces". Again the weather forecast was wrong, the sun shone most of the afternoon. The cottage gardens, especially at Knowsley, were a riot of colour. Later most of the group enjoyed a drink at the Duke William.
Wednesday 24 June - Unsworth to Gigg
John Talbot led a group of 24 on this walk on a fine evening. From Unsworth Pole, the route was through Hollins Vale Country Park to Pilsworth, and then taking the Roch Valley Greenway to Gigg, and then along the River Roch past Goshen Sports Centre to Blackford Bridge, and finally via Hollins and Bury Golf Course back to Unsworth Pole.
Sunday 21 June - Stoodley Pike (Mod/Stren: 14 miles )
Ed Husband led a group of 6 on this walk. The weather was windy, but apart from one shower at the start, kept dry. From the White House, the route was initially downhill to Summit, along the Rochdale Canal to Bottomley, and then along the Pennine Bridleway to Lumbutts and Mankinholes, continuing to the Pennine Way, and up to Stoodley Pike for a late lunch. After lunch the route continued along the Pennine Way back to the start.
Sunday 21 June - Haigh Hall from Blackrod (Easy: 8 miles )
Barbara McCormack also led a group of 6 on this walk, in good weather. The start of the walk was from Blackrod Community Centre, Greenbarn Way. Initially it was across fields and pastures, and then via the Leeds-Liverpool canal to Red Rock, and on to Haigh Hall for lunch. It continued through Aspull on the return to Blackrod.
Wednesday 17 June - Tom Barn
Dave Armstrong led a group of 16 on this walk, on a fine night after a day of rain, so with wet underfoot conditions. Starting and finishing at (and in) the Chetham Arms, the route was along the Green Arms Road to Wayoh Reservoir, and then on to Entwistle Reservoir and the Witton Weavers Way towards Tom Barn, circling back via Wayoh Dam to the start.
Sunday 14 June - Last Tango in Halifax (Mod/Stren: 14 miles )
Chris Langabeer led a group of 10 on this walk. The walk started from opposite the Eagle & Child PH at the top of Peel Brow, Ramsbottom. It went alongside Fletcher Bank Quarry and headed over Harden Moor to reach Ashworth Moor Reservoir before arriving at Greenbooth Reservoir. It then went south to the Rochdale Way, taking in Deeply Vale and Nangreaves. From there it was only a short walk back to the start. The walk included a visit to "Gillians farm" where filming for the series took place.
Wednesday 10 June - Crawshawbooth Canter
John Clements led a group of 19 on this 5 mile evening walk, starting from the Black Dog at Crawshawbooth.
Sunday 7 June - Pendleside Revisited (Mod/Stren: 13 miles )
Arlene and Harry Waddington led a group of 13 on a 12 mile circular walk around Pendleside. The day began dry with the promise of some sun and underfoot conditions were surprisingly good. The route took us through Barrowford , up to Ridgaling, down to Roughlee and onto Barley where we collected a 14th member. The summit of Pendle Hill was reached via Ogden Clough passing both Ogden reservoirs. Return was via upper and lower Black Moss reservoirs and the Water Meetings. There were some beautiful views in late afternoon as we descended towards Barrowford.
Wednesday 3 June - Two Valleys Walk
Peter Rowley led a group of around 20 on this walk, on a fine summer evening. Some of the group finished off the evening in The Swan.
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Sunday 31 May - Tram Walk – Heaton Park to Newhey (Moderate: 12 miles)
Jim Ashton led a group of 14 on this 12 mile linear walk. Underfoot, it was soggy after the overnight rain, but the walk was rain-free apart from one very brief shower. A group of 4 met at Bury Interchange, to take the tram to Heaton Park, and the other 10 either joined the tram at other stations, or went directly to Heaton Park. The walk was linear, finishing at Newhey station to take the tram back via Victoria, although some of the group first enjoyed some of Sam Smith’s finest at The Bird In’th Hand in Newhey. The route from Heaton Park was north-east through the park, crossing the M60 via the footbridge at Simister, and then east and north to Birch, continuing east to the south of Hopwood College, and then along Thornham Lane to cross the A627(M), and along the Rochdale Way to Summit. The route continued through Burnedge to Newhey.
Wednesday 27 May - Irwell Valley & Sculpture Trail
Jim Ashton led a group of 10 on the first of the summer evening walks. Rain was forecast from 4pm and arived on schedule, but fortunately stopped by 7pm. The walk was just over 5 miles, and started from Radcliffe Metrolink Station, heading out along the towpath of the Manchester, Bolton & Bury Canal, heading west to Nob End. It then circled round to the south and east to return along the Irwell Scuplture trail. The entire group then finished off the evening in the Bridge Inn.
Sunday 17 May - Towton (A War of the Roses Battlefield Walk) (Moderate: 10 miles)
Simon Holder led a group of 6 on this walk. Underfoot, it was dry and very firm, and the weather was mainly overcast with a cold wind. The walk started from close to the Crooked Billet Public House, and proceeded via Coldhill Lane, Garlic Flatt, Barkston Ash, Saxton and on to Towton Battlefield & Bloody Meadow. It continued via Chartley Lane, Hazelwood Castle and Park. (The castle is now a hotel, and the park is a horse racing track). The route back followed Cock Beck.For details about the battle and Towton Battlefield Society, click on this link.
Sunday 10 May - Black Hameldon (Mod/Stren: 14 miles)
Stewart and Janet Brady led a group of 11 on this walk on a fine, dry day, but with muddy underfoot conditions in places. Climbing out of Todmorden, the route was then north-west on the Calderdale Way to Mount Cross, then north to Wolf Stones, Hoof Stones Height and Black Hameldon, continuing north and then east to Gorple Upper Reservoir, and the south across Heptonstall Moor and Hoar Side Moor. The route continued east to Noah Dale, then south-east to Four Gates End, then south to the Great Bride Stones. Finally, the route was south back into Todmorden. On Black Hameldon, a visit, requiring careful navigation, was made to the B-24 Liberator crash site from 19th February 1945.
Sunday 10 May - Clifton Country Park (Easy: 7 miles)
Bill Hayden also led a group of 11 on this walk, in good weather. The walk started at the country park, and headed to the Outwood Trail. It descended to cross the M60, and went alongside the River Irwell. It returned via Fletcher’s coal mine, and the large lake.
Sunday 3 May - Accrington Junction (Mod/Stren: 14 miles)
Ed Husband led a group of 10 on this 14 mile walk, with rain at the start, clearing up in the afternoon. Starting from Clough Head, at Haslingden Grane, the route joined the Rossendale Way, going east and then north, through Rising Bridge and Stone Fold. Leaving the Rossendale Way, the route continued north, on bridle paths to the east of the A56. Taking the underpass at Sandy Lane, the route then was to the west, into Accrington, taking lunch in Oak Hill Park. After lunch, the route followed the track of the former Bury to Accrington Railway, opened in 1848, but closed in the 1960's, so there is no longer a junction at Accrington. Leaving the track, the route was uphill, with warnings of archers, to Icconhurst, past Biggins Farm to Bedlam, Gaulkthorn, Cockerley Fold, crossing Haslingden Road and heading south across Oswaldtwistle Moor, now with wind turbines. From there, it was just a short stroll back to the start, rejoining the Rossendale Way.
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Sunday 26 April - Tintwistle, Crowden & the Longdendale Trail (Moderate: 10 miles)
Dave Capell led a group of 11 on this 10 mile walk, in fine, sunny weather with a cooling breeze. Starting from the village green in Tintwistle, the route was to the east onto Tintwistle Low Moor, past Townhead Farm and Round Intake, climbing above Didsbury Intake to Millstone Rocks and Lad’s Leap, and continuing above Highstone Rocks, and then descending to Crowden for lunch at the picnic tables, including chocolates from Tracy. The route then crossed the A628, and joined the Transpennine Trail/Longdendale Trail along the former Manchester to Penistone railway track. The route continued to the west, past Torside Bridge and Deepclough, to the south of Valehouse Reservoir, finally crossing the dam and the A628 back into Tintwistle, and the hospitality of the Bull’s Head, sitting outside in the sunshine. There was an ancient set of stocks on the village green, which some decided to try out.
Sunday 19 April - Lothersdale Loop (Moderate: 12 miles)
Jean Royle led a group of 15 on this walk in good weather, mainly cool because of the wind, but thankfully dry. From just north of Earby, the walk started eastward, taking in sections of the Pennine Way and the Pendle Way. The route was via Stanridge Clough Lane, Proctor Height, Raygill Farm, Lothersdale, Folly Bridge, Dale End, Robert Wilson’s Grave, Pinshaw Beacon, Low Hill, Wood House, Brown House Bridge, Town Hill, Langber Hill, Swillber Hill, South Field Bridge and Thornton Hall Farm.
Sunday 12 April - Alport Castles (Mod/Stren: 10 miles)
John Talbot led a group of 10 on this 10-mile walk in variable weather. At the start it was fine, but on ascending past Bellhag Tor and then Pasture Tor onto the high ground leading to Alport Castles, the wind was so strong that walkers were being blown sideways. On descending to Alport Castles Farm, the wind decreased significantly, allowing an extended lunch break to be taken. However, on the way back past Woodcock Coppice, there was heavy rain which persisted to the end of the walk. The route initially followed a path through woods alongside Ladybower Reservoir before heading up on a forest bridleway to reach, eventually, the high open moorland of Rowlee Pasture. A broad ridge was then ascended to Alport Castles, a landslip which resembles castle ruins.
From Alport Castles the walk descended to the hamlet of Alport, and turned down the Alport Valley to reach the A57 at Alport Bridge. The return to Fairholmes used a short section of a Roman Road, climbing to Lockerbrook Heights and, finally descending along forest tracks and paths. The group finished the afternoon in the Ladybower Inn.
Sunday 5 April - The Settle Loop (PBW) plus Two! (Moderate: 12 miles)
Ian Pickup led a group of 15 on this 12 mile walk on a warm, sunny and dry day. From Settle, the route was initially uphill, north to Leys Barn, then east past Jubilee Cave to Langscar Gate, south over Ewe Moor, west past Kirby Fell and Stockdale Farm down Stockdale Lane finally descending into Settle. Most of the walking was on good paths along the Pennine Bridleway.
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Sunday 29 March - A Ramble Around Ribchester (Mod/Stren: 13 miles)
Norman Thomas with Ian Pickup led a group of 8 on this this walk, the numbers, as for the other walk, no doubt affected by the forecast, the rain on the day and the likely underfoot conditions.
It rained steadily throughout the walk, apart from one brief period mid-walk when it relented. There were very muddy paths in places - par for the course in the Ribble Valley! As a result, a considerable amount of paddling was required as a result of torrential rain on Saturday plus Sunday's contribution. However, there were good spirit amongst the group, both during the walk, and afterwards in the Ribchester Arms. (In fact, the rain stopped as the walk was finishing!)
An Outline of route was Ribchester - Salesbury Hall - Dinckley Bridge - Hurst Green - Stonyhurst College - Greengore - Lane Ends - Duddel Hill - Stydd - Ribchester.
Sunday 29 March - Thievely Pike (Moderate: 8 miles)
The shorter of the two walks was also affected by the forecast and by the rain on the day, as Bill Hayden led a group of 3 on this walk. The walk started from Bacup and went up the Old Todmorden Road, crossing the moors to Thieveley Pike. It then dropped down to the Old Burnley Road, before following the Irwell Sculpture Trail back to Bacup.
Sunday 22 March - Coach Trip to Llandudno
Peter Rowley rounded off his era as coach organiser, following a spell as bus organiser, his total, providing excellent Sunday outings for Bury Ramblers, spanning two decades.
This was one of his very best, a full coach to an interesting destination with good weather.
First to drop off was Jim Byrom’s party near Pendyffryn Farm for the strenuous walk, walking south and then east skirting Altwen Hill and fort, and then ascending Conwy Mountain, which afforded spectacular views. Descending, the route skirted Bondlondeb Wood and into Conwy, with a tour of the walls of the town, across Conwy Bridge and then to the north-west, alongside the estuary of the Conwy, culminating in an ascent of the Great Orme. Finally, there was a descent alongside the tramway into the town. The moderate walk, led by John Clements, took in the Great Orme as above but omitting Conwy Mountain, and the easy walk, led by Peter Rowley, was a circular tour of the Great Orme peninsula.
Sunday 15 March - Shibden Dale (Mod/Stren: 11 miles)
Simon Holder lead a group of 9 on this 11 mile walk on a fine day but with some mud underfoot. From Shibden Hall the route was initially west to Lower Horley Green and then north to Salterlee House, Blakehall Farm, Simm Car Farm and then through Shibden Dale to Shibden Head. The route then turned east to Ing Head Farm, and then south down Paw Lane, Barms Hill Farm, Plane Trees Farm, and along Jum Hole Beck. The route then crossed the railway, by a diversion, to Lower Place Farm and Sunny Bank Farm, turning west to Marsh Farm, and finally north back to Shibden Park.
Sunday 15 March - Liverpool Castle & the Old Japanese Gardens (Welcome Walk: 5-6 miles)
Dave Armstrong led a group of 12 on this 5-6 mile Welcome Walk, during which it is believed that the sun was spotted in the sky, a rare occurrence on recent Bury Ramblers walks. The group included 7 of Dave’s friends and family and one new walker with Bury Ramblers. The walk started from Rivington Visitor Centre , and included a stop at the cafe by Rivington Bowling Club.
Sunday 8 March - Singing Ringing Tree (Mod/Stren: 14 miles)
Chris Hayes and Kepa Kinsler led a group of 7 on this 14 mile walk, at a brisk pace in the cool wind. It was based on a walk from May 2010, without the good weather from 2010, although the early rain cleared up in the afternoon. The walk started from Clowbridge Reservoir Car Park, and went initially up to the Hameldon Hill weather station, picking up the Burnley Way to Towneley Park for lunch. From there the group headed for the Singing Ringing Tree by way of Holme Chapel. Underfoot it was very wet.
Sunday 1 March - Austwick (Moderate: 11 miles)
Alan Pilling led a group of 14 on this walk. The weather was initially cold and dry, but in the afternoon, driving sleet and snow arrived.
The walk started in the village of Austwick and proceeded first to Clapham and then Long Scar, through Sulber Nick to Moughton, and on to Wharfe, Wood Lane and back to Austwick. There were good views of Pen-y-Ghent and Ingleborough in the earlier part of the day, before the bad weather arrived.
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Sunday 22 February - Todmorden to Trough Edge End (Mod/Stren: 11 miles)
John Clements led a group of 7 on this walk. We would normally have expected a larger group, but in the days before, there were yellow weather warnings, and it was confidently predicted by the weather forecasters that rain would start at noon, taking the form of snow on higher ground. As the equivalent walk last year was disrupted by heavy rain, the leader offered the option of a shorter canal walk to Hebden Bridge, returning by bus, but the vote was split so the leader reverted to the planned walk, which took place at a fast pace, to take advantage of the good weather in the morning. The rain arrived on schedule at noon, and continued all afternoon, mainly in the form of sleet, sometimes snow. Starting from Todomorden, the walk was on the high moors to the west of Todmorden, going via Dobroyd, Flower Scar, Inchfield Moor, Trough Edge, Weather Hill, Naze and Gauxholme.
Sunday 15 February - Bus walk – Ramsbottom to Bury (Moderate: 10 miles)
Ed Husband led a group of 17 on this walk, on a fine, sunny day with temperatures above zero. The walk was linear, Ramsbottom to Bury, so walkers had the option of taking the bus (or train) at the beginning or at the end. The route was to Stubbins and then Strongstry, climbing to Pilgrims Cross, and then on to Holcombe Brook, Summerseat, Burrs Country Park and back to Bury, finishing at Bolton Street Station, and for some, a drink in the Trackside Bar.
Sunday 8 February - Pendle Hill & Deerstones (Mod/Stren: 13 miles)
John Talbot led a group of 15 on this walk, after sub-zero temperatures overnight, freezing fog for most of the walk (apart from one short sunny spell) and frequent icy patches underfoot. The walk started at Sabden, and the route initially was to the Nick of Pendle, from which point the group ascended Pendle Hill, by way of a path above Ogden Clough. Next there was a descent past the Scout Cairn, which took the walk close to the Nick of Pendle again. The intention was then to head eastwards to the Deerstones, and across Spence Moor. However, because of the fog, which made it very difficult to navigate across unmarked paths on Pendle, and made it impossible to keep the whole group in view, it was decided to shorten the walk, and so the group walked back along the road to Sabden.
Sunday 1 February - Another Chilli Winter's Day! (Mod/Stren: 14 miles)
Roy Davies led a group of 12 plus one dog on this walk, on a decidedly chilly winter's day, with temperatures only just above zero, and some icy patches in places. From Wadebridge Drive, the route was west to Walshaw, Bentley Hall Road, Hill End Farm and on to Jumbles for a morning break. The direction was then north to Turton Bottoms, then east to Higher House Farm, fitting in a lunch stop, and then Simons Farm, Holcombe Brook, Brooksbottoms, and SE to Summerseat. The group then walked SW to Moss Farm and Kirklees, SE on the Kirklees Trail and finally south to Woolfold and back to the start. Following the walk, there was available an excellent dish of chilli that Roy had hinted at in the walk title, and duly delivered. Yum!
Sunday 1 February - Prestwich Forest Park (Welcome Walk)
Jim Ashton led this welcome walk. Jim's report follows:
There were 17 on the walk, 8 of them "new". It was a lovely winter's day, cold and sunny. The route from the tram station was down Clifton Road, through the Mere Clough, then joining the Irwell Sculpture Tail along the bank of the River Irwell, with a break for drinks. Then back to Prestwich through Prestwich Clough, with some of the group calling in the Church Inn.
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Sunday 25 January - Whalley & Wiswell (Mod/Stren: 13 miles)
Ian Gorner led this walk, and his report follows:
Had 18 on my walk. Walk was in mainly dry, but dull, weather, and it rained for the last stretch of the walk. Followed the route from Springwood car park to Wiswell, and then on through Sabden, and onto a stretch of woods called Shady Walks, eventually following a section of the River Calder, and then up and over Whalley Nab, and finally back to Springwood.
Sunday 18 January - Local walk (Moderate: 10 miles)
The Shibden Dale walk was postponed, to be run a a later date, because of the weather, and instead, Simon Holder led a group of 5 on a local walk from Bury. The route was from Bury Interchange to the Kirklees Trail, past Boltholt, along Bentley Hall Road to Height Barn, and through Ainsworth, then alongside Elton Reservoir and back to Bury Interchange.
Sunday 11 January - Welcome to Wayoh (Welcome Walk)
Mike Minett led a group of 19 on this 5 mile walk, on a dry winter's day. Underfoot conditions were not too bad for the time of year, and temperatures were above zero. Starting and finishing at Turton Towers, the walk explored a section of the valley of Bradshaw Brook, along with Turton Village and Wayoh Reservoir.
Sunday 4 January - Against the Grane (Moderate: 10 miles)
For the first walk of 2015, Ed Husband led a group of initially 9, in winter sunshine with underfoot conditions sometimes icy. Two more walkers unfortunately failed to make the start because of an overturned car on the Grane Road. The walk started from Clough Head Car Park, and went intially north to join the Rossendale Way, heading east. After the lake formed by the former quarry, the route left the Rossendale Way, but continued to the east as far as the memorial at Mary's Wood. The route was then south, past Holden Hall, and then alongside the River Ogden to Helmshore, followed by an uphill route to the west through Kiln Field Farm to the Chimney, for lunch. The route continued downhill, rejoining the Rossendale Way to the west, with good views of Holden Wood, Ogden and Calf Hey Reservoirs, and then past the cottages where illegal distilling once took place and on to Pickup Bank Height, Rushy Hill and back along the Rossendale Way to the start.