Coach Walks 2005

Please click on the links below to read a full report

Hawes - Sunday 16 January 2005

Walks Information Sheet - Please click to download a copy.

Photos - click on the links below to view

[Photo 1 courtesy Trevor Grimston; Photos 2 to 6 courtesy Ian Hull]

'A' Walk

Well, we were promised mud and we were not disappointed! The day started in beautiful conditions and we had conquered Addlebrough before the first intimations of rain made themselves felt. Mill Gill Force was spectacular and our budding photographer made the most of it. Hair-raising descents, knee-knocking and body squeezing stiles and the occasional body on the ground did nothing to spoil our enjoyment as we flogged our way into Hawes via Helm and Sedbusk, muddied and soaking wet. I did not see the officer and gentleman of the party laying down his cloak for us to walk on. He will have to try harder! Thanks to David and Carola for a good walk bravely borne.

'B' Walk

'B' Party chose a more watery way than most, not content with the threatening rain. From Appersett they followed the raging Ure to confront the splendid torrent of Cotter Force, force being the operative word! Nothing daunted they then made their way into Cotterdale which for the rest of us back in Uredale had been blotted out since mid-morning. 'B' party survived, however, and lived to join the Pennine Way and visit their second waterfall, Hardraw Force, another aptly named natural feature.
Soggy field paths led them safely through Simonstone and Sedbusk to the welcome fleshpots of Hawes all present and correct. Thanks to Derek and Annette.

Diane Exley

'C' Walk

After many months of toil in locations as diverse as Hadrian's Wall, deepest Cheshire and even the Settle/Carlisle railway, Trevor (Maximus) Grimston XIII and his trusty band of legionnaires strode off up the Roman Road from Bainbridge, ably backed up by the noble Lady Jeanius of Rothwell. "These Romans didn't 'alf know 'ow to lay a good road surface" one centurion was heard to mutter in admiration at the tarmac by the village green. Up the Roman Road they marched unremittingly, but steadily gaining height as the views opened up across Wensleydale. However as skies turned from cloud to drizzle, lunch was snatched in a sheltered hollow before commencing the afternoon march. "It's all downhill from here!" exclaimed Maximus triumphantly, as they rounded Wether Fell. "And you're 200 ft higher than 'A' party!" They were then confidently led down a succession of slippery slopes and squeezable stiles to encounter the welcoming taverns of Hawes, which left a mere 3 hours drinking time until the departure of the chariot to Leeds.

Philip Lancastrius

Ribchester - Sunday 20 February 2005

Walks Information Sheet - Please click to download a copy.

'A' Walk Click on the links below to view the Photos

Photos courtesy Ian Hull

An interesting day spent in rural Lancashire. Setting off from Ribchester in good weather we climbed steadily across fields to the top of Spire Hill on Longridge Fell. This had the advantage of great views across to Morecambe Bay and the Blackpool Tower, but exposed us to the icy blasts of the North wind. Descending the steep slope in the shadow of the hill reminded us that it was still winter, but once emerging into sunshine we soon warmed up. Muddy fields and styles strung the group out and at one stage the rear group almost tagged onto the wrong walking group. Passing Stoneyhurst College, a massive 16th century building, we were given an historical description by Diane before heading back to Ribchester and a welcoming pint or two.
An excellent day's walking in ideal winter weather. Thanks to Leonie and Diane for getting us round without incident.

John Crouch

'B' Walk Click on the links below to view the Photos

On a cold, dry, sunny day, starting from Hurst Green, a select group of only 9 ( did the others know something they didn't?), made their way down the long drive to the magnificent Stonyhurst College. The ascent from here, across what would have been soggy fields but thankfully frozen, to Longridge Fell forest and superb views of the Ribble Valley and Pendle Hill. Passing through the forest to the edge of the scarp, a fantastic panorama of the Hodder Valley, Bowland Fells and a hazy sight of Ingleborough. Descending from the ridge, (again thankful for the frost), Blackpool Tower, and an oil/gas? rig way out at sea, were visible. More fields and narrow treed gullies led back to the welcome sight of the "Ribchester Arms". A super walk and one of the best 'viewing' days for a while. Many thank to leaders Phil and Jenny. Also, thanks to Leonie and Diane for reserving seats at the "Arms".

Photos and report Trevor Grimston

'C' Walk

A lovely gentle walk (appreciated by the injured among us - Douglas with his bad back and myself with bruised and extremely painful ribs) undertaken in glorious sunshine though a bit chilly. There were numerous stiles along the way in various states of repair, some quite rickety and a bit of mud though according to Brian and Chris nothing like what they had when they did the recce! The views were spectacular and seeing Pendle Hill bathed in sunshine all day was a bonus. A 'refined' start and finish at the Ribchester Arms made for a perfect day. Thanks to Brian and Chris for another good walk.

Joan Thompson

Arnside - Sunday 20 March 2005

Walks Information Sheet - Please click to download a copy.

'A' Walk

Lowering cloud gave way to blue sky and sunshine as we approached Kirkby Lonsdale. Legs and arms appeared as 'A' party raced, breathless, up the first hill on the way to Hutton Roof with its air of prehistoric scrubland. Lunch, with the option of a pub, was a very civilised affair after crossing the transport corridor of motorway, canal and railway. Sleepy villages gave way to mysterious forests with myriad paths culminating in a potentially ankle-breaking limestone pavement. Tea was followed by a descent of the fairy steps - some people had problems persuading their rucksacks to descend, or so they said - but all arrived safely at the bottom, watched over by 'B' party at the top. The bracing sea air at Arnside sent us scurrying to pub or café, depending on our tastes. A lovely walk. Thanks to Meryl and Derek.

Diane Exley

'B' Walk

A small elite group of 11 (there were only going to be 9 until 5 minutes earlier), alighted from the coach in the centre of Lupton, a village a few miles north of Kirkby Lonsdale, to begin what proved to be a delightful walk filled with scenic splendour. After a brief descent to cross a stream, we began a steady climb around Farleton Fell to eventually arrive onto the large limestone pavement at Hutton Roof which we tripped across, some of us tripping more than others. Then we began the descent to Dalton, crossing both the motorway and the railway and in between taking in a stretch of the Lancaster Canal prior to heading off towards Slack Head. Passing through a country estate filled with beautiful flower beds, we then headed for the woods to eventually do a little more tripping, this time down the "Fairy Steps". Unfortunately, some of our more portly fairies found the exercise somewhat of a squeeze but all eventually arrived safely at the bottom. The walk concluded with paths through farmland to Arnside and thoughts turned to finishing with a nice, refreshing cup of tea. However, the tea shops having locked their doors already, we had to resort to the alehouse. Shame. Thanks to our leaders Lynn and Alan for a splendid walk.

Brian Hall

'C' Walk Click on the links below to view the Photos

After leaving W. Yorks. in heavy overcast and mist, it was very pleasant to arrive in Arnside in mild, hazy sunshine. After the obligatory toilet stop, a most enjoyable walk over low hills, (hopes of views of the Lakeland fells spoilt by the haze), through woods, a look at the ruins of Arnside Tower and over the odd field, to arrive at the coast at Silverdale. A path through Arnside Park, carpeted with daffodils and with splendid views of Morecambe Bay, led to a very narrow cliff edge path, with little or no room for error!! Finally, with the tide out, a stroll along the beach back to Arnside and the welcome bar of " Ye Old Fighting Cock". A super 'amble ramble' with no pressure and time to admire the scenery. Many thanks to Glennys and Janette.

Photos and report Trevor Grimston

Flamborough - Sunday 17 April 2005

Walks Information Sheet - Please click to download a copy.

'A' Walk Click on the links below to view the Photos

Photos by Ian Hull

Well, we were here to see the birds and see them we did. 'A' party started at Reighton and tramped muddily and precariously towards the coast where, from time to time, all action stopped while 20+ eager faces scanned the cliffs. Gannets planed, kittiwakes huddled, razorbills bobbed on the sea and puffins whizzed for us and to cap it all the sun shone. Danes Dyke was visited twice and passing the coach three hours before we boarded it did not faze anyone. At times it was a walk of two halves and the backup showed admirable patience in not goading the back half to join the front half. It was not all flat though. The path showed the steep up and down characteristics of other coastal paths and by the time we reached Flamborough village we felt we had had a good walk. Thanks to John and Mike.

Diane Exley

'B' Walk

There were groans as the coach hit some thick mist around Malton - would it be like this all the way? Fortunately, no. The party debussed at the hamlet of Buckton into blue skies and hazy sunshine. After a quick 'cuppa' by the duck pond, Mary led off up a, in places muddy, lane to the coast path at Buckton Cliffs and headed south east. Coffee stop was at the R.S.P.B. viewing point, giving an awe inspiring sight of the sheer cliff face and thousands of sea birds, both nesting and soaring. One amiable 'twitcher' was offering looks through his large telescope, of a family of puffins nesting in a hollow in the cliff. The walk proceeded at a good pace on a good and fairly level path, very close to the cliff edge in places, stopping for lunch overlooking picturesque Thornwick Bay and musing at the strange 'sculptures' and witty writings in a back garden at North Landing. At Flamborough lighthouse, a stop for ice cream etc. An approaching ragged crocodile along the cliff top, turned out not to be recently landed asylum seekers but the 'A' party!! Round Flamborough Head and going west (in the nicest possible way) with a cool breeze coming in off the sea, two or three nasty, steep little ravines and inland to the finish in Flamborough. Only time we got lost, looking for the pub!! - must be a first. A most enjoyable and very scenic walk. Many thanks to Mary and Brian.

Trevor Grimston

'C' Walk

After partaking of our customary coffee break we commenced the walk. We were blessed again with sunny weather and the walk took us along the cliff tops from Flamborough visiting both North and South Landings and having our lunch by the lighthouse. We had a new member, Josephine, with us, so hope we didn't march her too hard ('C' party march - I don't think so - anything above a saunter and we rebel!). Douglas was feeling energetic at the end so decided to do the additional Dane's Dyke stretch on his own the rest of us feeling that we'd had enough bracing sea air for one day. Thanks to Stuart and Paddy for their leadership and another good walk.

Joan Thompson

Holmfirth - Sunday 15 May 2005

Walks Information Sheet - Please click to download a copy.

'A' Walk Click on the links below to view the Photos

Photos by Ian Hull

We were promised that we would tread where no person's(!) foot had trod before and we did. But first we had to conquer the mountainside of Black Hill. Up we toiled, our leader striding effortlessly before us and not a peat hag in sight. Views all around were breathtaking (as was the climb) and the way across access land to Holme Moss mast exciting. The contours of Ramsden Clough were a wonder to behold and gave the feeling of being on top of the world, albeit a relatively pathless world where few other walkers could be seen. We alarmed the geese and the lambs at Snailsden Reservoir and then came down to earth, or Holmfirth as it was called, very gently. Full marks to both the leader and his able backup for devising and leading such an excellent walk.

Diane Exley

'B' Walk

A cool, cloudy morning was perfect for the start of our walk as we made our first climb to the top of the ridge where we were rewarded with panoramic views of the Holme Valley.

The second climb covered a wide variety of scenery through farmland passing picturesque hamlets and offering many vantage points.

A more leisurely afternoon followed in warm sunshine as we continued through delightful woodland and discovered the charming area of hidden reservoirs. We returned along lanes which took us through gentle countryside towards Holmfirth.

Our grateful and sincere thanks go to the Rescue Services who came so quickly to support us after one member of the group fell. At the end of our walk we received the wonderful news that the injured person was well and on their way back to Leeds.


Thanks to Meryl and Brian.

Meryl Ward

'C' Walk

After what was a strenuous start for the 'C' party (especially after bacon butties, etc.), we then had a superb walk via Upperthong and Holme and some of the reservoirs of the Holme Valley. It was a beautiful area and the scenery could not have been bettered. The weather was perfect and we all arrived back in Holmfirth pleasantly weary and ready for a refreshing drink, intoxicating or otherwise. Being quite local we also arrived back home at a very reasonable hour. Thanks to Jenny for a lovely walk.

Joan Thompson

Castleton, N Yorkshire - Sunday 19 June 2005

Walks Information Sheet - Please click to download a copy.

'A' Walk Click on the links below to view the Photos

Photos by Ian Hull

To say that the weather was hot and sticky is to put it mildly. Every step encouraged jungle-like streams of perspiration to stream. Luckily, our geographically-minded leader was able to find many windblown spots among the undulations of our walk. Starting from Rosedale at a brisk pace, we quickly reached the remains of the Rosedale ironstone industry and thence into Great Fryup Dale, which lived up to its name. Aptly named Furnace Farm was next and then to the heights of Beacon Hill, although the haze restricted the beautiful views. A final dash along Rosedale Intake accompanied by theatrical streaks of lightning and never-ending rolls of thunder failed to save us from the torrential rain. A very good walk nevertheless, enhanced by falling stone walls and a massage session. What more could you want? Many thanks to the leader and her ever-reliable backup.

Diane Exley

'B' Walk

It was already stiflingly hot when the 'B' party, 16 strong (13 ladies and 3 chaps) - thank goodness they were gentle- debussed on the outskirts of Castleton, and as the day went on it just became more and more humid. Field paths and farm tracks undulated along Westerdale, at one point passing through a Country Music Festival, led up to the open moor at High Crag. Distant views were spoilt by haze. Lunch was taken, appropriately, at "Fat Betty", colloquial name for "White Cross". A short stretch of the Lyke Wake Walk, surprisingly very over grown, some road walking and then the descent, in scorching sun, to the hamlet of Botton. Recently the site of a TV programme, it is the home of an amazing self sufficient community for people with learning difficulties. Everyone dashed to the community café to replenish lost liquid!! Then on the last lap, down Danby Dale, black clouds built up from the west and all the way down the dale, there was a constant, never ending rumble of thunder!! Everybody was wondering 'are we going to make it'. Thankfully, in spite of some heavy drops, we all got to the tea shop/"Eskdale Inn", soaking but not with rain, before the heavens opened up. The result of that storm is now sadly all too apparent. A most interesting walk, thanks to Barbara and Ron.

Trevor Grimston

'C' Walk

Setting off from Danby NP Centre after the customary cuppa, we headed in the direction of Botton before the return to Castleton, pausing on the way to view Danby Church. It was a lovely leisurely walk with panoramic views and the mileage was just perfect in the VERY HOT weather! A pleasant, restful drink in the beer garden made a lovely end to the walk before the thunderstorms came and spoilt what had been a perfect day.
Many thanks to Glennys and Pat for another good walk.

Joan Thompson

Glossop, Derbyshire - Sunday 17 July 2005

Walks Information Sheet - Please click to download a copy.

'A' Walk

Another hot and sticky day enveloped us as we trudged up the valley to Doctor's Gate. Plentiful stops for water and the breeze over Featherbed Moss revived us, however, as did counting the stone slabs. A plunge down William's Clough brought us to Kinder Reservoir and a further descent landed us in Little Hayfield. At this point the cloud cover parted and the happy sun shone fully on us as we clambered up the hill. Notwithstanding, we drank deeply from our supplies, wrang our clothes out and, putting our best feet forward, we sallied forth over access land towards Whiteley Nab. From there it was a steep slide down to the outskirts of Glossop and a gentle trundle through the park to the pub. Well done to the leader!

Diane Exley

'B' Walk - Click on the links below to view the Photos

Photos by Diane Taylor

The "B" walkers started at Crowden vistor's centre, where we made use of the facilities before setting off along a good, tree lined path to reach the road. After crossing it we then crossed over Torside Reservoir, and started to climb up to Clough Edge. We climbed, and we climbed, for about two hours we climbed, after numerous water /view stops we were at the top of Bleaklow.
Moors are usually very much the same, but this one was rather different. It looked as if someone had been playing about with a dumper truck. There were what looked like piles of black stuff everywhere. We reached the summit and enjoyed a very leisurely lunch in glorious weather.
When everyone was fed and watered, (someone who shall be nameless had two lunches to choose from) we set off again with the option of visiting The Wain Stone. When we reached the detour point several of us decided to sit and wait, this is where the strangest thing happened.
All of a sudden from one of the small black hills arose a "TWISTER" yes we have seen them on the 'telly' but never in real life before. It rose in a spiral about eight feet high, moving in an arc towards us, as it moved it shrunk until it disappeared just in front of us. We could hardly believe what we had seen, but we were all covered in very fine black dust to prove it.
Of course just after this the party who went to see the Wain Stones, returned whether they believed or not I don't know.
Now our way was gradually down, some of the path was along tracks which looked like sandy riverbeds between the peat humps. Eventually we reached the "Old Woman" (never saw her) this is where we turned right towards "Doctors Gate" and the downhill proper started, into a very picturesque valley beside a stream, and on to a very warm welcome at "The Queens" to partake of very much needed refreshment.
A big thank you to Diane and Penny for a great day (with a twist)

Report by Glennys Ash

'C' Walk

Another very hot day. We had a lovely walk with good views once we'd climbed our hill!! Our lunch break was spent overlooking Cheshire and watching all the planes on their approach to Manchester airport. There was, unfortunately, quite a bit of road walking through no fault of the leader - one path closed off and another so overgrown since the recce it couldn't be penetrated. Nevertheless we all enjoyed the walk and were very ready for long cold drinks at the end. Thanks to Stuart and Paddy for another good day.

Joan Thompson

Helmsley, North Yorkshire - Sunday 21 August 2005

Walks Information Sheet - Please click to download a copy.

'A' Walk Click on the links below to view the Photos

Photos by Ian Hull

Another hot day as we plunged down to Gormire lake and made our way, mostly uphill it seemed, to High Paradise, where we encountered raucous music issuing from a car - not my idea of Paradise. Led by a GPS and the occasional waving of a map, we made our way to Dale Town, having stopped for refreshment and a cooling breeze before descending. A gentle walk along the River Rye and a glimpse of Rievaulx Abbey through the trees led to a pretty straight run into Helmsley. A lovely walk in very pleasant surroundings. Thanks to the leader and his ever-watchful backup.

Diane Exley

'B' Walk

From the Sutton Bank Visitor Centre, the 'B' party, in scorching sun, traversed the glider field on Roulston Scar, with stunning views over the Plain of York and had a coffee stop immediately above the newly painted "White Horse of Kilburn". Impossible to see from this position and nobody was moved to go down and have a look!! Over fields and through woodland, with a distant but beautiful view of the heather covered Nth. Yorks. Moors, past the lakes by Spring Wood to the magnificent ruins of Rievaulx Abbey, in its sylvan setting. The magic of the moment somewhat marred by a loud voice by the ticket office, "Ask ah lass what flavour lolly she wants"?!! A final climb out of Rye Dale through more woodland and over fields to the welcome refreshments (and a chance to cool down) at the finish in Helmsley. A most enjoyable ramble, with thanks to Alan and Kath.

Trevor Grimston

'C' Walk

Yet again, Stuart and Paddy led a lovely walk (thank you) through the countryside around Helmsley traversing potato and corn fields, etc. with an occasional forest providing slight respite from the hot sun. We strolled alongside the stream that had caused so much damage in the recent floods, hard to believe as it looked so tranquil, and visited the village of Pockley along the way with its lovely thatched cottages, before heading back to Helmsley and the difficult decision of which flavour ice cream to choose from a choice of forty!

Joan Thompson

Leek, Staffordshire - Sunday 18 September 2005

Walks Information Sheet - Please click to download a copy.

'A' Walk

'A' party dwelt among the untrodden ways for much of their walk as they sashayed from the drop-off point on the A523 back to Rudyard reservoir. The weather was of the moist, clinging type but we were moving so fast that we must have avoided most of it. Fields of long, wet grass, awkward, not to say impossibly greasy, stiles and equally greasy footbridges accompanied us all the way and severely slowed us down. At one point we actually vanished into The Cloud but reappeared safely to stumble with aching limbs back to Rudyard. On the way one person tested a stile as an alternative to the stocks and another fell to the ground in the excitement of walking down a lane. Good map reading was of the essence and our leader was more than a match for barbed wire, a rusty harrow and hidden waymarks. Congratulations to both the leader and the backup for finding paths on the ground not visible to the naked eye although apparently on the map. 16 miles? The jury's still out.

Diane Exley

'B' Walk - Click on the links below to view the Photos

The forecast 'mild, dry and overcast' was two thirds correct, the 'dry' bit certainly wasn't. The 'B' party set off from Rushton Spencer, in deepest Staffordshire, in a persistent, misty drizzle and by the time it reached its highest point, the aptly named "The Cloud", visibility was down to about 40 yards. Here, leader Martin told us of all the interesting but invisible long distant land marks that can be seen from this vantage point!! Lunch was taken in light rain, but this soon petered out, the mist cleared and the forecast was finally correct. The rest of the walk to the finish at Rudyard (pronounced by some as "ruddy 'ard") was up and down along barely visible paths, through long, wet grass and over innumerable rickety, slippery stiles. An interesting walk spoilt by the miserable earlier weather. Thanks to Martin and Terry.

Report and photos by Trevor Grimston

'C' Walk

A day of near 'disasters'. The cafe, despite the leaders having previously arranged for it to be open for our customary coffee stop, remained closed and no amount of banging on doors and windows made any difference. So we set off in the mist and drizzle (where was the fine day forecast by the weatherman?) on what would have been a lovely walk if we could have seen the views. Half hour or so into the walk our leader realised she didn't have her map case with her anymore - hung it on a fence near the start of the walk and left it! Her back-up decided to go back for it and meet up with us later, a lot later as it turned out. Also had a bit of road rage with the passenger of a car, some of the party were in the road and he got quite irate with them, to put it mildly. Got the impression he didn't like walkers very much. We did have a very civilised lunch stop in the garden of a pub near Tittesworth reservoir and a lovely cup of coffee which made up for the one we'd missed earlier. Once we got off the tops we could actually see where we were going, Chris did very well remembering the walk without the map as Brian didn't catch us up until near the end and in spite of the weather, etc., we all enjoyed the walk. Thanks to Chris and Brian (what bit of time he was with us).

Joan Thompson

Sedbergh, Cumbria - Sunday 16 October 2005

Walks Information Sheet - Please click to download a copy.

'A' Walk Click on the links below to view the Photos

Photos by Ian Hull

'A' party was fooled into thinking that they were going to have an easy day as they swung along low level paths from Kirkby Lonsdale in the hot sun dodging the occasional flying golf ball. Then came Middleton Fell with its multifarious false summits and the glee of our leader as he watched us panting to the top of each one. The sideways wind didn't help either and we needed two lunch stops to make it. However, all things come to an end and eventually we reached Calf Top, blown and bewildered, to admire the view(!). From there it was more or less downhill all the way and a very pleasant downhill it was too. We even arrived in Sedbergh in time to have a leisurely drink. Many thanks to our energetic leader and his conscientious backup for a splendid day. They even arranged the weather!

Report by Diane Exley

'B' Walk

Leaving Leeds in damp, misty weather, the outlook wasn't good, especially with the clag right down on the hills. Was this to be a repeat of the Leek trip? However, by the time the "B" party debussed betwixt Kirkby Lonsdale and Sedbergh, the mist had cleared, clear blue sky and quite warm. Spirits rose. We meandered across undulating fields and rough pasture, with a number of grotty stiles, often alongside the river Lune, with hazy views of the Howgills. Idyllic. That is, until we were faced with a very narrow, tree rooted path down a very steep river bank with a sheer drop of 30-40 feet, straight into the river, plus getting over a 45 degree fence!! Some wiser members found a way round. On the climb up from the valley to open moorland, a small herd of alpacas was admired. On the final leg to Sedbergh, a small group left the main party to follow the main road to the finish and welcome bar of "The Dalesman". A very pleasant walk with some wonderful views. Many thanks to Alan and Lynn.

Trevor Grimston

'C' Walk

Oh, such a perfect day (as the song goes) and it was. Despite setting
out from Leeds in mist and low cloud, the nearer we got to our
destination the bluer the sky and the sun shone down. We had a lovely
walk (as I was the leader I'm bound to say that!) along the riverside
and through a number of lovely little hamlets on the edges of Sedbergh.
The views of the hills around were beautiful and looked so inviting
that even we 'easy' walkers dreamt of being on the tops (it was only a
dream though). I think a good time was had by all and thanks to my
back ups, Betty at the start and Stan and Brian later.

Joan Thompson

Buckden (North Yorkshire) - Sunday 20 November

Walks Information Sheet - Please click to download a copy.

'A' Walk Click on the links below to view the Photos

Photos by Ian Hull

Starting from Kettlewell, 'A' party slid their way up to Old Cote Moor Top where a refreshingly icy breeze cooled their fevered brows. Ice-skating skills were honed as they negotiated treacherous bogs which had become treacherous slabs of ice likely to give way beneath the unwary foot. Stone-walling experts rushed to repair the indentations in the walls, optimistically called stiles, as members of the party heaved themselves across the breach. And if they thought that was hard, more exciting times were to come on the long, knee-straining descent into Yockenthwaite, strewn with icy limestone, grass and mud. Having survived that, the journey back through Cray to Buckden was tame by comparison and only six members bore unmistakable signs of having succumbed to the pleasures of a mud bath. Thanks to David and Carola for safe leading.

Report by Diane Exley

'B' Walk - Click on the links below to view the Photos

On a beautiful, cold sunny morning with the frost still sparkling on the fields and fells and with Wharfedale looking its wintry best, about 17 'B' walkers set off from Starbotton. Down a stony lane and over the River Wharfe to pick up the Dales Way and follow the right bank up the dale. Coffee was taken by the bridge at Buckden. The river was crossed by the delightful old church at Hubberholme. On this stretch, the weak sun was warm enough to melt the top half inch or so and the path became very slippery, ending with a few muddy knees and bottoms (mine included). The river was left at Yockenthwaite, with a climb up to the ridge, for lunch. As we followed the ridge, before dropping down to Cray, the sun got brighter, clearly defining the dry stone walls snaking up the slope of Buckden Pike. After crossing the stepping stones at Cray, a short, sharp climb led to Buckden Rake, a path leading along and down to the finish at Buckden (a bonus was finding boot washing facilities outside the public toilets!!) and the welcome refreshments of the "Buck Inn". A most enjoyable day and many thanks to Nancy and Richard.

Report and photos by Trevor Grimston

'C' Walk

Photo by Trevor Grimston

Another lovely walk on what was a crisp, frosty and cold but sunny winters day along the riverside from Starbotton to Buckden to pick up Stuart, Paddy and Margaret and partake of an early lunch. Then on to Hubberholme and Cray before returning to Buckden and a welcome, warming cup of tea! A beautiful day. Thanks to Stan and Kath for their leadership.

Report by Joan Thompson

Ripon (North Yorkshire) - Sunday 18 December

Walks Information Sheet - Please click to download a copy.

'A' Walk Click on the links below to view the Photos

Photos by Ian Hull

'A' party alighted at Killinghall to begin their pilgrimage to Ripon in sparkling sunshine. Due to the low, not to say freezing, temperature we were spared a muddy tramp and fell to balancing precariously on the resulting frozen ruts. Several attractive villages were seen from unfamiliar stances and Ripley Castle appeared in all its glory. A white blob on the horizon was deemed to be the white horse at Kilburn. In spite of the festive fare enjoyed in the coffee break, we managed the hills and had enough energy to admire the widespread views. A final trot along the canal brought us to Ripon and its several pubs which were not serving food. Hurrah for the teashop. A very interesting and enjoyable walk. Thanks to the leader and his able back-up.

Report by Diane Exley

'B' Walk - Click on the links below to view the Photos

The 'B' party, very concerned by a note in Brians walk description, "…..this could be the muddiest, slimiest walk you have ever done", were thankful to arrive in Ripley and find that two days of keen frost had turned the ground rock hard and just time for some to buy hot pork pies from the local butcher. The weather was cold and dry with hazy sunshine, a perfect day for walking. With Brian leading off, resplendent in his Santa Claus hat, the route from Ripley followed paths, tracks and minor roads over undulating farmland, passing some interesting sights. An abandoned, overgrown churchyard with only the church tower remaining, an invitation to join the congregation at Bishop Thornton church, some large brown and white sheep like animals with huge black, curved double horns, a magnificent view down on Fountains Abbey, and finally, the " Black Bull" in Ripon. A most enjoyable walk and many thanks to Brian and Sue.

Report and photos by Trevor Grimston

'C' Walk

This was a lovely easy walk up to Studley Roger then Studley Royal and
through the deer park before returning by the side of the river back
into Ripon. Usually on the pre-Christmas walk we have a 'fuddle' but
this year we decided to have a proper Christmassy lunch at the Unicorn
hotel in Ripon, this was very good and enjoyed by all. Thanks to Denis
and Betty for leading the walk.

Report by Joan Thompson

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