Coach Walks 2003

Please click on the links below to read a full report

Scarborough - Sunday 19 January 2003

Words to describe mud and rain are beginning to fail me but here goes. Although the 'A' walk description mentioned words such as 'teeing off' and 'meander' it seemed more like a cross-country mud-skiing race as we hurtled from Scalby to Broxa to Hackness to West Ayton, avoiding such pitfalls as wooden stumps, deep pools and snaking brambles and tried to keep both the leader and the backup in sight. 'B' party took to the coast. Starting at Muston and trending towards Scarborough they soon encountered not only steep slippery mud but wild crashing waves. Some of the party took an alternative and shorter route back but the majority stayed with it and landed safely back to enjoy the fleshpots of Scarborough. 'C' party debussed with 'A' party and took the Cleveland Way along the cliff top past Scalby Ness. Turning away from the coast to make for Burniston they then made their way to Peasholme Park. The weather did improve throughout the day and the sun even made an appearance just in time to set. Views were atmospheric rather than clear and we certainly transferred quite a bit of East Coast mud to West Yorkshire. Thanks to all the leaders and backups. We don't hold the underfoot or overhead conditions against you.

Diane E

Waddington - Sunday 16 February 2003

After a dull start from Leeds, the sun was out by the time the coach arrived at Waddington, near Clitheroe. All three groups debussed and set off in different directions. The 'A' group began with a very boggy lane, but having survived it, were rewarded with very varied scenery and a good view from Beacon Hill. While many lunched in the shelter of a wall, others availed themselves of padded chairs!! Over Burbles Hill, across Grindleton Fell and Herries before meandering along the banks of the Ribble and back to Waddington. The 'B's had a firm road start but were soon confronted by a path across four fields very recently sprayed with liquid fertiliser!! Concern was expressed as to whether any boot soles would be left by the time West Bradford (village) was reached. A steady climb over field paths and open fell, passing the 'A' party by Grindleton Wood, and then meeting the 'C' party, who appeared to be doing the 'B' route in reverse! A very muddy lane, thankfully slightly frozen, across the southern flank of Bradford Fell and finally through Feazor Wood, back to Waddington. Convenient steps down to the village stream simplified boot cleaning before repairing to various refreshment establishments.Thanks to all leaders and backups.

Trevor G

Tealby - Sunday 16 March 2003

The undulating wolds of Lincolnshire beckoned us this month and a day of unprecedented March temperatures had many people scrambling to remove tights, trousers, gaiters and other garments at the first possible strip stop. 'A' and 'B' parties both started at Caistor and both followed parts of the Viking Way. Sunbathing was the order of the day whenever possible and there was no mud! 'B' party went up the Nettleton valley working their way up to the highest church in Lincolnshire at Normanby-le-Wold and then working their way down to the Ramblers' church at Walesby. 'A' party dodged on and off the Viking Way looping round to Rothwell and Claxby to give a bit of variety. 'C' party started the day by knocking up the café in Tealby for a drink and a comfort stop. They then followed the Viking Way for a while before teeing off to Pickard's Plantation and back to the fleshpots of Tealby where all parties were reunited. A wonderful day. Thanks to all leaders, backups and their supporters.

Diane E

Sutton Bank - Sunday 13 April 2003

Another sunny day and a trip to North Yorkshire in view. What could be better? All three parties poured from the coach near the Sutton Bank visitors' centre and divided themselves up. The 'B' party was suspiciously full of regular 'A' party members. Never mind, the 9 who set off (3 women,6 men) were not fazed and descended with enthusiasm to Lake Gormire. Boltby was soon reached and High Paradise beckoned-high being the operative word. A stroll to Gowerdale and several forest walks led to Old Byland and Cold Kirby and thus to Sutton Bank.
'B' party, 28 strong, set off in the opposite direction, taking in the magnificent views from Roulston scar before descending through woods to the Kilburn area. Stripping seems to be the order of the day on walks this year and one member flashed more than his legs as he changed into shorts en route. A delightful surprise awaited the party near Byland Abbey where, in the nearby trees, stood a tiny church. Its history was told by the son of its builder who died last year and a plaque was dedicated to those from Ampleforth who had lost their lives in the wars. A pleasant interlude in a very varied and interesting walk.
'C' party initially kept to the tops before following 'A' party down to Lake Gormire. A gentle contour of part of the lake led them to the A170. Safely crossing this they made for Hood Hill Plantation and shade from the sun. However, reality soon struck. Having climbed down at the beginning of the walk, the only way back was up. So up the White Horse they went and arrived safely at the Hambleton Inn with everyone else.
A splendid day with beautiful views. Thanks to everyone who made it possible.

Diane E

Ruthin - Sunday 18 May 2003

The prospect was daunting and full rainwear was donned initially only to be discarded shortly afterwards when the sun appeared and stayed all day. No webbed feet today then. 'A' party climbed up from the A494 to take the country way through Eryrys towards Llanarmon where the local hostelry provided welcome refreshment. Another ascent brought them to the slopes of Moel y Plas and Offa's Dyke but nearly blew them away in the process. Those with higher ambitions raced over the tops and survived. It was with relief then that they descended from Moel Eithinen, hair blown but still intact, to stroll into Ruthin.
'B' party debussed first at Loggerheads Country Park ready to ascend the foothills of Ffirth Mountain. The going was good until the wind round the Jubilee Tower threatened to make them airborne. Trending towards Moel Elthinen they noticed a wild waving party up ahead but decided to ignore them. 'It's only the 'A' party. The sun's gone to their heads as usual' they said and continued on their way to Gyrn and the end of the walk at Ruthin.
'C' party thought they were going for a pleasant walk through fields, meadows and villages. Nature thought differently, however, and as they neared the end of the walk baileybridge building skills were brought into play when the river proved to be an almost uncrossable feature. A small group which had diverted from the main party encountered a similar obstacle and had to retrace their steps. Despite this everyone arrived back safely after a beautiful day in the soft rolling countryside of Wales. Thanks to all leaders and backups.

Diane E

Coniston - Sunday 15 June 2003

At last a day when shorts could be donned with confidence and no clouds threatened us even if we were going to the Lake District. 'A' party headed for the hills and found refreshing, not to say chilly winds on the ridge going round to Coniston Old Man. An undulating walk to Swirl How and Wetherlam gave them the most magnificent 360' views before they descended to Coniston through Copper Mines Valley. An attempted sheep rescue proved too difficult but at least the proper authorities were alerted.
'B' party came to look at Coniston Old Man but remained at a safe distance before sliding round the back of Torver . Being at a lower level they suffered more from the heat and when the lake came into view and there were still four miles to go, the thought of a gentle ride on a ferry was tempting - until they discovered the next one was scheduled for Monday. Never mind!
'C' party independently started at Shepherd's Bridge and wisely chose the cover of trees as they made their way to High Tilberthwaite and Stang End before returning to Shepherd's Bridge. History was all around them on this walk and what a pleasant day to enjoy it on. The walk finally led them to the Cumbria Way and the delights of Coniston were spread before them.
An excellent day and the weather was just heaven-sent. Thanks to all leaders and backups and the coach driver, of course.

Diane E

Kettlewell - Sunday 20 July 2003

All parties debussed at Kettlewell in fine, sunny weather. 'A' party disappeared to walk through the fields parallel to the road up to Buckden with a brief descent to the road at Starbotton. Birks Fell and Firth Fell strained the calf muscles but the river walk from Litton to Arncliffe gave some respite before the haul up Old Cote Little Moor and the slide back into Kettlewell.
'B' party opted to set off in the opposite direction making for Mossdale and trying to avoid various shake holes and disused mines. The summit of the climb revealed beautiful views and hot weather to boot. Descending to Mossdale Scar and Conistone Pie they made their way to the Dalesway and back to Kettlewell.
'C' party began with coffee and then took the other side of the river to Starbotton. They climbed to Moor End farm to enjoy the wonderful views of Upper Wharfedale and then cantered to Starbotton before reversing the hillside walk 'A' party had done earlier.
There was ample time to enjoy the delights of Kettlewell before clambering back ob to the coach and heading for Leeds. Thanks to all leaders and backups.

Diane E

Matlock - Sunday 17 August 2003

'A' party flew over the Duke of Devonshire's domain from Baslow, pausing only for a bit of bracken bashing on the way. Two pubs were passed unvisited even though the offer was made. (Do we believe this?) Switching between limestone and gritstone scenery and passing through a hippie colony, they came to the delights of Winster before the plod over the hills and down to Matlock.
'B' party chose to start from Matlock. They were promised a surprise at coffee and got it in the shape of a cave! No wonder they were asked to bring a torch. It was well worth the climb though. Splendid views of the countryside delighted them and the not so usual sight of a flock?/herd? of ostriches fascinated them. The walk back along the river to Matlock was cooling and a welcome relief from the heat.
'C' party embarked on an undulating route after initial visits to Snitterton and Wensley. A steep climb brought them to Upper Town but not to their knees. Undaunted, they clambered down into Bonsall and then up and out again. The final steep descent into Matlock was rewarded with a welcome drink and a rest.
Some members lamented the fact that they could have been drinking the cheapest beer in the land all day instead of wearing out their boot leather. Still, you can't have everything and we all had splendid walks. Save the beer for another time!
Thanks to all leaders and backups.

Diane E

Shap - Sunday 21 September 2003

'A' and 'B' parties were hoping that Wet Sleddale would not live up to its name as they set off in tandem. Soon 'A' party veered off to clamber up and over to Mosdale where the weather was not quite so sunny. Swindale beckoned and a puzzling encounter with four Vikings striding up the valley left them wondering which century they were in. Tailbert and Rayside were reached at such a speed that the leaders decided to go for the full Monty and take in Rosgill as well. And there was still plenty of time for drinking once Shap was reached.
Once 'B' party had left the 'A's they made their way to Wet Sleddale reservoir for coffee and then up to Sleddale Hall. Contouring round they came to Tailbert and followed the same path as the 'A's, coming across a very sad cow mourning its dead calf on the way. Looping round Rosgill, they then strode out for Shap Abbey before the final assault on Shap itself.
'C' party, being of independent mind, started their walk at Shap. Trending the opposite way to the others they approached Rosgill from the south east. Moving further north westward they came to Brampton and then made their way back south to Shap Abbey before joining the 'A's in a triumphal return to Shap.
We were luckier with the weather than we thought we would be and the fish and chip shop did us proud. Pity about the real ale.

Diane E

West Kirby - Sunday 19 October 2003

'A' party zipped off from West Kirby at a rate of knots and soon came to Caldy Hill and a delightful view over the estuary. Undulating countryside led them through country parks, visitor centres, very posh houses and many encounters with dogs and proper toilets. Once West Kirby was reached and the marine lake had been circled, the majority cried for more and visited the Red Rocks nature reserve as well.
'B' party debussed at Arrowe Country Park and strode out for Royden Park preparing themselves for the ascent of Thurstaston Hill, from where excellent views were enjoyed of the Dee Estuary and the North Wales coastline. Passing the marine lake they made a pilgrimage across the sands to the Hilbre Islands, hoping that they would not get cut off by the tide. They didn't, and, bidding farewell to the welcoming seals, they re-crossed the sands to West Kirby. The walk was so lovely there were no complaints! Is this a first?
'C' party took the sea air from Wallasey to West Kirby and found that it was a longer walk than they had bargained for. No wonder some of them were on their knees by the time they reached the pub. However, they enjoyed the sea breeze and the views of the Hilbre Islands from afar and they didn't get their feet wet either.
There may not have been any mountains but there were plenty of interesting things to look at and enjoy. Thanks to all leaders and backups.

Diane E

Barnard Castle - Sunday 16 November 2003

'A's debussed first, already excited at the thought of the yomping and erratic descent to come. They were not disappointed. So good to feel mud beneath the boots again! Running concurrently with the walk was a male hat fashion parade. This did not, however, detract from the beautiful scenery or interfere with the enjoyment of the varied and interesting walk.
The 'B's debussed at Bowes and were soon striding out along the River Greta on the first leg of a walk which turned out to be a little more than the ten miles advertised. Nevertheless, the weather was beautiful and the views were magnificent. From farm to farm they went, ending up in Barnard Castle leg-weary but happy in the knowledge that they had had a good walk.
The 'C's chose to start their walk at Barnard Castle on the Teesdale Way. Fortified with coffee they took in the historical delights of the disused railway line near Lartington before making their way down to West Pasture and thus along Deepdale Beck back to Barnard Castle.
The longest walk for some people was finding the coach at the end of the day but all arrived safe and sound eventually, as we knew they would. Thanks to all leaders and backups.

Diane E

Pickering - Sunday 21 December 2003

Wine, mince pies, mud and the adventures of the first Queen's Scout. Read on. The weather forecast for Sunday was dire, gale-force winds and driving snow. We set off wearing more layers than a mille feuille pastry and were very pleasantly surprised by the warm sunshine which greeted us.
'C' party debussed first in Pickering and started the day with coffee before making their way to Howldale, wine and mince pies included. They then crossed the A169 and swayed on to Newbridge and Pickering where more festive food and drink was enjoyed.
'A' party, having picked up car travellers in Pickering, were driven to Eller Beck where they alighted and started their 15 mile flight to Pickering via Newton Dale, Hole of Horcum and Farwath. The pace was feisty and the mud slippery but all managed to stay upright and most people even caught sight of the leader now and again. A few snow showers merely hastened everyone's footsteps and a tour of Pickering Castle was included in the delights of the day.
'B' party were lucky enough to have a free tour of Pickering and the North Yorks Moors before being taken to Thornton-le-Dale where they started their walk. All was well until just after Dalby Forest when, unbeknown to the rest, one of the party (the first Queen's Scout) began an adventure of his own. Luckily he had a map and was endowed with good tracking skills and managed to find the A169 which took him safely back to Pickering. The remainder of the party, having searched for him in vain, crossed the A169 and made their way through Lockton and Farwath back to Newbridge and Pickering, where all were reunited.
An unexpectedly good weather day and rather less mudful than we had feared. Thanks to the leaders and backups.

Diane E

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