Coach Walks 2006

Hawkshaw, (Lancs) - Sunday 15 January 2006

Walks Information Sheet - please click here to download and view a copy (Microsoft Word document)

'A' Walk

Please click on the links below to view the photos

Photos by Ian Hull


'A' party fell off the bus at Ramsbottom and made steady progress up to Peel Tower where we were confronted by a whole host of cyclists, walkers and runners. Keeping one's head above water was this month's skill as we proceeded in a boggy sort of way over Holcombe Moor, avoiding the military zone and noting the memorial to the 12th century pilgrims who passed the same way, presumably without the benefit of waterproof boots. Edgworth was reached and the Witton Weavers Way found threading its watery way past reservoirs and over moorland. The final reservoir, curiously named Jumbles, was reached with joy as a cleaning place for boots - too soon! More mud was to come, but at least it didn't rain.
Hawkshaw with its welcoming Waggon and Horses burst into view and the rest was comfort. A lovely walk. Thanks to the skilful leader and his wandering backup.

Report by Diane Exley

'B' Walk

A welcome return to this often overlooked corner of Lancashire. Whilst perhaps not as immediately spectacular as other parts of this great county such as the Forest of Bowland, this area nevertheless provides an oasis of countryside squeezing in between the huge conurbations of Bury, Bolton and Blackburn, to name but a few. Being relatively close to home ("Are you local?") I made my way independently to the tiny village of Hawkshaw and was most relieved when the coach arrived a few minutes later, shortly followed by the leaders.
The weather was somewhat changeable during the day varying from cloudy to sunshine as we made our way via Turton Bottoms and Chapel Town on to the Witton Weavers Way overlooking Egerton with views across to Winter Hill - and memories for some of us a route previously trodden but in the opposite direction a couple of years ago.
Lunch was snatched at the picnic site by Turton and Entwistle Reservoir, followed by a hasty departure after which we became in danger of getting mixed up with not only our own A party coming the opposite way, but the Long Distance Walkers Association who were out for a mere 25 mile stroll (some chance!).
As the main group headed up towards Holcombe Moor, a couple of members veered off to take a more direct route back to Hawkshaw and its welcoming pub. Rumours that the rest of the B group couldn't keep up with them were quickly laid to rest when they arrived back about 40 minutes later to report that the promised mud had finally appeared.
Thanks to Alan and Lynn for another interesting and enjoyable route.

Report by Philip Birtwistle

'C' Walk

Please click on the links below to view the photos

Photos by Trevor Grimston

So determined are we to have our cuppa, etc., before the start of a walk that when the cafe wasn't quite ready for opening, we did a little walk, literally through the small housing estate of Edgworth and back to the cafe for bacon butties, etc., etc., before commencing on a slightly muddy but pleasant walk from Edgworth, passing through Jumbles Park and the ever popular reservoir area before making our way down to Hawkshaw, allowing plenty of drinking time at the end of the walk. The weather was cool and cloudy with occasional sun despite the weatherman forecasting rain. We did eventually get rain but by that time were on the coach home. Our thanks to the leaders, Chris and Brian.

Report by Joan Thompson

Langsett (South Yorkshire) - Sunday 19 February 2006

Walks Information Sheet - please click here to download and view a copy (Microsoft Word document)

'A' Walk

Please click on the links below to view the photos

Photos by Ian Hull

We left the bright sunshine of Leeds and plunged into the eerie whiteness of the Peak District. The going was tough as we yomped across the Langsett Moors and down to the River Derwent. Many fell and few remained unblemished as we variously slid, clutched and scrambled our way up to Barrow Stones. An executive decision was taken not to proceed to the Grinah Stones and we slid back down to the River Derwent. A breathtaking climb up Howden Edge and over Cut Gate brought us in time to the welcome of the Flouch Inn at Langsett. A day of few hares, many GPSs and, unfortunately, only partial views but very atmospheric. Many thanks to our innovative leader and his reliable backup.

Report by Diane Exley

'B' Walk

Having deposited the A party amid the frozen tundra above the Woodhead Pass, the coach headed down to lower and thankfully clearer climates and despite the sterling efforts of the SS Peakparkfuhrer Wardens at Langsett Barn car park, the coach was reluctantly granted a brief visitors pass to drop off the remaining walkers. "Yes, the toilets are open", one of the officials reluctantly admitted, an obvious escapee from the local charm school. The B party set off alongside a rather hair-raising stretch of the A616 before turning thankfully off-road for the greener pastures of the paths and tracks around and above Midhope Reservoir.
A welcome coffee stop was rewarded by our leader, Trevor the Fearless, followed by a steady plod to the long since abandoned North America farm, an excellent viewpoint overlooking the local reservoirs, if a bit windy. Lunch was partaken here before a brief assault on to the moors. Not for us the yomping of the A party - a straightforward, but muddy track which still afforded us the feeling of being in the wilds and a decent view on the way down.
Afternoon tea was taken down in the forest area, where, following a brief attempt to abandon Barbara by the river, we followed a rather "circuitous" route through the trees. "Haven't we been this way before?" I asked naively. "Be quiet and hope no one notices!" was the reply from the backup. Seemingly no one did and we wended our way back via the lakeside path and over very recently felled trees to make a final assault on the pub and café.
A great walk full of variety and interest. Thanks once again to Jean and Trevor.

Report by Philip Birtwistle

'C' Walk

In spite of the weather being very overcast this was a pleasant and
varied walk by the reservoir, through woods and over moorland, then by
the river back to Langsett. We even saw a bit of sun in the afternoon!
It was considerably muddier than when it was reccied but still
enjoyable. Thanks to my 'back-up' Margaret for her assistance, it was
her first time in the job and she did very well.

Report by Joan Thompson

Reeth (North Yorkshire) - Sunday 19 March 2006

Walks Information Sheet - please click here to download and view a copy (Microsoft Word document)

'A' Walk

Please click on the links below to view the photos

Photos by Diane Taylor

'A' party strolled up to Fremington Edge to begin their own version of the Winter Olympics. Few marks could be awarded for style and speed but sliding, losing legs in holes and falling down earned quite high marks. Luckily the descent to Booze(where was it?) and Langthwaite was not so treacherous. Calver Hill loomed large from the ground but we girded our loins, wet though they were, and pounded (yomped?) up and across the moors to the mighty summit. It really was all downhill from there and the welcome green of Swaledale soon came in to view. A very good walk, ably led and backed up.

Report by Diane Exley

'B' Walk

Please click on the links below to view the photos

Photos by Trevor Grimston (1-3, 5, 7, 8) & Dave Sherborne (4, 6, 9, 10)

Speeding up the A1, the coaches windscreen wipers did not auger well, but thankfully it did not last and we debussed in Reeth in dry but overcast conditions. Led by Derek Little and ably backed by his wife Annette, we were off. (Surprisingly joined by the Chairman and his wife, both ardent 'A' walkers!! Would they push the pace? Happily they did the honourable thing!!). From the village square and down to the suspension bridge over the River Swale, we followed the right bank, with views of the snow covered fells on either side. Following the traditional 'coffee stop', it was all up hill, passing the site of a Bronze Age hill fort and virtually "yomping" through snow covered heather, to stop for lunch at a remarkable 2 roomed, wooden shooting hut, complete with tables and chairs. (Why can't we ever find anything like this when it's pouring down?). In the 'best room' there was even a large stuffed sheep, and on the mantelpiece, a stuffed grouse in a glass case!. Continuing over High Harker Hill, superb vistas opened up in all directions and the sun actually broke through for a few minutes. The wet snowed covered path made for some uncomfortable walking for a while. Descending on a minor road past the Y.H.A. hostel to Grinton, we returned to the river, following the right bank to the suspension bridge, back up into Reeth and the welcoming refreshments of 'The Kings Head'. A most enjoyable scenic walk and many thanks to Derek and Annette. (And the rain started just as we left!!).

Report by Trevor Grimston


'C' Walk

After partaking of our customary cuppa we set off on our exploration of
the Reeth countryside. Having only been asked to take over the walk at
short notice our leaders had not had the opportunity to do a recce so
it didn't completely go as expected. We did see Marrick Priory but
couldn't cross the river to get to it as the river was in full spate
from ice melt and unfortunately none of us could walk on water! This
resulted in not being able to do the second half of the walk as planned
so improvisation was called for. We had a bit of road walking at times
and Mary's excuse for not finding a particular path was "that new
finger post has been put in the wrong place"! In spite of everything
we still enjoyed the walk and thank Douglas and Mary for stepping into
the breach.

Report by Joan Thompson

Cutthorpe (Derbyshire) - Sunday 23 April 2006

Walks Information Sheet - please click here to download and view a copy (Microsoft Word document)

'A' Walk

Please click on the links below to view the photos

Photos by Ian Hull

At the crack of the starting pistol 'A' party took to their heels and ran. On the way we practised a new skill, that of furrow-balancing. The penalty for failure was a bath in deep, liquid mud. Starting in gentle territory we graduated through woods to the splendour of White Edge where we could actually see where we were. Penetrating deeper into the moorland expanses, we surprised herds of deer who stared in disbelief at the advancing throng. There were disappointed faces when the yomp across Big Moor only lasted half an hour instead of the promised 45 minutes, but we coped. A final burst across the fields brought us to Linacre woods and the accompanying reservoir and the welcome sight of 'The Three Merry Men'. A very good, innovative walk which took us to previously untrodden paths. Thanks to the leader and her ever faithful back-up.

Report by Diane Exley

'B' Walk

Please click on the links below to view the photos

Travelling down the M1, most were watching the coach windscreen and wipers as it became more overcast. As feared, the wipers started and we arrived at Cutthorpe (so this is where it is!!) in light rain. Cags and 'sack covers on and brollies up. Surprisingly, all three walks set off in the same direction, albeit with a time interval. After a short stretch of firm footing, tarmac, it was on to sodden fields, up and down lethal slippery gullies and twice along paths that were literally streams. One going up hill that was extremely treacherous. At least the rain soon petered out, the sky brightened up and for a time there was a solid road to walk on and a chance to look at the scenery and not where to put your feet next. Didn't last!! Soon, back on to a diabolical path, churned up by horses, followed by a reasonable path up a valley side and into the open. Quite warm and sunny now. Some more road work with long views before descending to the path (one name for it) along the shores of the Linacre Reservoirs, which was probably, for most of its way, the most slippery of the whole day!! At least the bar of the "3 Merry Lads" had a dry floor. An interesting walk with some fine views, but the lasting memory of the day will be the endless mud!! Many thanks to leader Alan and back-up, Kath.

Report and photos by Trevor Grimston

'C' Walk

This turned out to be 'the walk of many stiles' - got to 26! and stopped counting. Though rainy when we started off (without a coffee first), the weather soon cleared, the sun came out and we had a lovely walk through fields full of horses and woods carpeted with wood anemones, primroses and cowslips before finally reaching Linacre Reservoir. The reservoirs were at the end of the walk so acted as an incentive along the way.
It was quite undulating and there seemed to be more ups than downs, it was also VERY MUDDY so coupled with the stiles the legs were given plenty of exercise. Two members of our party had falls but thankfully neither was seriously hurt.
Our thanks to Brian H and Sue for a good day's walking.

Report by Joan Thompson

Middleham (North Yorkshire) - Sunday 21 May 2006

Walks Information Sheet - please click here to download and view a copy (Microsoft Word document)

Walks Map - please click here to download and view a copy (Adobe .PDF file)

'A' Walk

'A' party started their walk gently from the historical aspect of Richard III's castle. The next part was more tricky, however, and faced with the prospect of half-covered stepping stones athwart a raging river, they voted with their feet and made for the bridge. Witton Fell was conquered and Agra Moor reached before the promised droplets of rain began to fall. A concerted dressing up in rainwear ensued as the weather closed in for the day. For the next few miles we honed our bilberry-crushing skills and practised the art of Indian-filing. The high point was reached and as the backup said, it was all net decline from there onwards. They galloped across Middleham Moor and fell in bedraggled heaps into the various fleshpots on offer in the town. Thanks to the leader and backup who must surely win the prize for yomping and the prize for giving us good walks in spite of the weather.

Diane Exley

'B' Walk

Under starter's orders, out of the paddock, the pace was relaxed and steady past Middleham castle, before enjoying a pleasant canter down to the lower regions of Coverdale and over the amusingly named "Hullo Bridge", for which several equally preposterous theories for its name were advanced. Hmm…a case of a little knowledge is a dangerous thing, methinks? Absolutely, Dobbin.

Nosebags of various sizes and shades emerged during lunch, which was partaken in a sheltered spot among the trees. It was round about that time that ears started to prick up at the unmistakeable pitter-patter of tiny drops - yes, the rain was coming causing one or two of the party to shuffle about uncomfortably and flick their tails in anticipation.

The leader set off again at a steady trot over another bridge and up to the village of Melmerby. The pace increased slightly to a bit of a canter and then eased off as the leader tried to spice up the route by pretending not to see the path (or should that be bridleway?), but the others all followed behind dutifully - it was as if they instinctively knew that she knew where she was going all the time…

A few whinnies of excitement rang through the group as the gallop track was approached, but the only race to be encountered was that of the group itself charging into the nearest barn for a thankfully dry afternoon refreshment stop.

It has to be said that the final leg was the most challenging of all. What would have been a straightforward final lap along the track to Middleham, turned into a serious race as the rain fell unremittingly, the pace increased, the leader was overtaken by several charges, thundering hooves away…who would be the first past the post? One thing was certain - no way was it going to be a photo finish!

'C' Walk

After our usual cuppa, we set off in sunshine, giving the false
impression that maybe we would stay dry all day! Should have known
better, it stayed fine till lunchtime then the heavens opened again.
Lunch was taken in the porch of a disused church with benches down
either side, keeping us nice and dry though we disturbed a pigeon in
the rafters which decided to flap about and send flurries of dust? down
on us. By the end of lunch the rain was coming down in earnest so wet
gear was donned before we set off again. Despite the numerous stiles
(18) the walk was very pleasant through fields and by the riverside
passing Braithwaite Hall, which looked very impressive for a B&B,
through Coverdale and Thorngill before reaching the gallops, by which
time we were well and truly soaked and could have done with a horse to
get us back to Middleham a bit quicker into the dry of the cafe and a
welcome cup of tea. Thanks to Stuart and Paddy for another good walk.

Joan Thompson

Llangollen (North Wales) - Sunday 18 June 2006

Walks Information Sheet - please click here to download and view a copy (Microsoft Word document)

'A' Walk

The start of the 'A' walk was not auspicious, pouring rain and mist all around. However, it got very much better as we climbed to the top of Moel Ffana, although those of us in shorts suffered a near bout of hypothermia at the top due to the whistling wind. The views were far-reaching and magnificent and the paths well graded and very clear, although not very apparent map-wise. The wonder of Wales continued as we made our way to Vivod Mountain for a final highrise view of the surrounding countryside. As we descended to Llangollen the poorly knee club grew larger but all made it to the end. Thanks very much to our leaders for pioneering such an interesting and innovative walk.

Report by Diane Exley

'B' Walk

Please click on the links below to view the photos

Photos by Martin Housley

Leaving Leeds on a warm day - with the possibilities of rain later, we arrived in Llangollen to light rain and an overcast sky. We set off along the canal to a very pleasant picnic site with all mod cons, for an early lunch.

After a slight backtrack to the canal we were soon heading for the hills (and brighter weather), Velvet Hill being the first, although we didn’t have to climb to the top. The scenery was beautiful, and each turn we made took us into another valley, bypassing an old abbey along the way. The final hill was Castell Dinas Bran Hill, where four of our number decided to make a trip to the top, the rest skirted round it and had a welcome T.break and a chance for a bit of sunbathing ,( as the sun was now shining) while we waited. Then eventually back into Llangollen to play hunt the place for refreshment.

A big thank you to Martin and Terry for a most enjoyable walk.

Report by Glennys Ash

'C' Walk

Arriving in the rain we quickly headed for a cuppa before donning wet gear and setting off on the walk. Halfway up the hill to Castell Dinas Bran the wet gear was off even though it was still raining slightly, too warm as we steadily made our way to the summit. The rain eventually stopped and after getting our breath back we then descended to reach the Panoramic Walk and our eventual lunch stop. The rest of the walk was through woods, along Offa's Dyke Path and down the side of the canal, where we spied a pair of Lesser Spotted Woodpeckers eating 'Red Hot Pokers' and a fox cub who appeared to be totally oblivious of the sheep that were also in the same field. It was a very pleasant walk and thanks go to Brian and Christine who seem to be getting quite expert with walks in this area.

Report by Joan Thompson

Whitby (North Yorkshire) - Sunday 16 July 2006

Walks Information Sheet - please click here to download and view a copy (Microsoft Word document)

'A' Walk

Another hot, sunny day and 'A' party skipped nimbly off the coach at Sleights to begin their pilgrimage to Whitby. The going was mysterious initially in that no paths were visible through the long grass, thistles and nettles (ouch!). However, our leader was not defeated and led us safely to Robin Hood's Bay where we played tourists for a while. The path along the clifftop was delightfully bracing and the sea looked very inviting, but not having wings we were denied the pleasure. The tea stop turned into a sunbathing stop before a last stagger into bustling Whitby and its many attractions. Thanks to Sylvia and John for an interesting walk.

Diane Exley

'B' Walk

Debussing at Grosmont, the B group soon escaped the hustle and bustle of village life (2 steam trains and a faded "Hearbeat" poster) to begin the walk proper. We were most grateful for the shade of the trees as we climbed up through Priory Wood & Spring Wood enjoying one or two refreshment/admire the views stops on the way up. A superb vista over the Esk Valley was enjoyed when we took our early lunch and before long the North Sea appeared, although it wasn't as close as it first seemed, as someone remarked over an hour later as we plodded on through Hutton Mulgrave Wood - however we were now going in the right direction - ie: down. The charming resort of Sandsend was reached next where we were afforded an extended afternoon stop, allowing us to partake of a variety of cold refreshments and soak up the sun. The very pleasant final section of the walk was along the beach (thankfully at low tide) where the leader very nearly gave us the slip at the last minute, but, undeterred we tracked him down and brought him to heel, in time to get directions to the coach park at Whitby. Hustle and bustle is probably somewhat of understatement to describe the thronging crowds who seemed to be milling everywhere, but nevertheless refreshments, both of liquid and solid variety were hunted down and claimed before the journey back. A slightly frustrating longer coach trip home due to the volume of traffic, but this did not spoil what had been an immensely enjoyable and varied walk and a super day out.

Philip Birtwistle

'C' Walk

Our customary cuppa on Grosmont station with a steam train in the background preparing for it's journey to Pickering put us in good stead for a glorious walk through the beautiful countryside of Eskdale with eventual far distant views of Whitby abbey. Most of the walk was along the Monk's Trod which was interesting trying to imagine the monks all those years ago traversing between the abbeys of North Yorkshire. The
weather was wonderful and the couple of hours in Whitby enjoying the sea air and ice creams was the perfect ending to a perfect day. Thank you Stuart and Paddy, yet again a lovely walk.

Joan Thompson

Hathersage (Derbyshire) - Sunday 20 August 2006

Walks Information Sheet - please click here to download and view a copy (Microsoft Word document)

'A' Walk

Please click on the links below to view the photos

Photos by Ian Hull

Optimistically clad for summer with a little light rainwear, 'A' party began their walk near Rivelin Dams. The coffee stop was enhanced by an older member of the party acrobating to the top of a rocky outcrop and returning safely to base. Interesting historical information was dispensed by the leader and Ughill Moors and Cut Throat Bridge were passed without incident. A splendid walk over new access land on Bamford Moor revealed stunning views and pleasant walking underfoot. No wonder it's been kept secret! A little light yomping was promised and encountered without difficulty apart from wet legs. The rain came and went and came again and we all arrived in Hathersage ready to sample its delights. A really good walk. Thanks to our open access leader and his cheerful backup.

Report by Diane Exley

'B' Walk

The day started fairly bright until we were nearly ready to leave the coach, on the A57at the start of Stanage Edge. After instructions from Alan about following his bald head we started walking in very overcast showery weather.
The path was very good, and the views were good across to Lady Bower Reservoir, even though there was mist swirling about.
After lunch amongst rocks (for shelter) we hit the road again at Upper Burage Bridge which was a very busy parking spot.We then headed to Lower Burage Bridge along a very picturesque path by a babbling brook before entering Longshaw Country Park.
By now the rain had stopped and the sun was trying to break through as we made our way into Hathersage, to the shops, café's and pubs.
We had a great days walking in a wonderful area, thanks to Alan and Philip.
(What a change to start at the top)

Report by Glennys Ash

'C' Walk

No cuppa's or butties this month as we commenced an old favourite walk in a lovely area which even the on/off rain couldn't spoil. Once on top Stanage Edge provided a lovely level walking surface before we dropped down through fields and woods into Hathersage. We visited the graveyard on the way to view Little John's last resting place and whilst there espied a sign advertising 'Scrumptious Home Baking, Tea, Coffee' so as we'd missed out on our morning cuppa we all trooped into the church hall to feast on carrot cake, etc. and it was indeed scrumptious. Another enjoyable days walking and thanks go to Christine and Brian for their leadership.

Report by Joan Thompson

Pooley Bridge (Cumbria) - Sunday 17 September 2006

Walks Information Sheet - please click here to download and view a copy (Microsoft Word document)

'A' Walk

Please click on the links below to view the photos

Photos by Ian Hull

'C' Walk

Alighting the coach at the Rheged Visitor Centre and being the first group off, which doesn't happen very often, we had a bit of time to spare enabling us to have a brief look around the Centre as well as our 'cuppa' before commencing the walk. The walk took us away from Rheged through a short wooded area and over a couple of stiles before crossing the river Eamont, through fields to reach the small village of Sockbridge then on to Tirril where the local pub had its own brewery! (but we didn't sample any, honest). We then had a bit of road walking before reaching a bridleway leading on to High Street Roman Road when Ullswater came into view. Unfortunately, due to low cloud and haze, there were no views of distant mountains. We skirted Heughscar Hill before leaving High Street and descending into Pooley Bridge. Stuart and Paddy led this delightful walk, thank you both.

Report by Joan Thompson

Osmotherley (North Yorkshire) - Sunday 15 October 2006

Walks Info Sheet - Please click here to download (Microsoft Word document)

Walks Map - Please click here to download (Adobe PDF document)

'A' Walk

'A' party debussed at Swainby and made their way to Whorlton where the remains of the 14th century castle were closely inspected. Clambering up to the moors, they disappeared into dense, bootlace-wrenching bracken for a while to surface on a beautiful moorland road. The potential for wide-ranging views was there but a veil of mist was drawn over the moors and their beauty was somewhat hidden. The party marched onwards over Snilesworth Moor, the Bilsdale mast a beacon in the distance. At last the final hill rose up and the fleshpots of Osmotherley beckoned. A really pleasant walk in beautiful countryside. Thanks to the efficient leader and his backup.

Diane Exley

'C' Walk

The usual cuppa was enjoyed in Osmotherley, along with various hot cross buns, ovenfresh scones and rounds of toast (no names please!) before embarking on the first stage of the walk along the Cleveland Way past the Lady Chapel followed by a steady ascent through the forest up to the transmitter at the top, which we were assured by the leader was a microwave mast. My brain wasn't quite fried at that point but I was working on it (ping!). The usual spectacular views from the escarpment proved rather elusive as we sheltered behind various walls and trees for lunch before carrying on past Sheepwash Beck and along the Hambleton Drove Road. All too soon Osmotherley beckoned and we made our final climb, dodging a few conkers thrown by the local urchins. I think someone muttered something about "no discipline these days" and made a wry comment about the good old days of kids being kept in their place up chimneys and down the mines... Returning to the village, a few of us decided to do a little bit extra down to the river and back, where we encountered the returning B party, being ably led by John, preceded by a couple of refugees from the A walks! The day ended in traditional fashion with people disappearing into various watering holes before probably the last coach journey home of the year in daylight. Thanks to Glennys and her ever-changing team of backups.

Philip Birtwistle

Downham (Lancashire) - Sunday 19 November 2006

Walks Info Sheet - Please click here to download (Microsoft Word document)

Walks Map - Please click here to download (Adobe PDF document)

'A' Walk

Please click on the links below to view the photos

Photos by Ian Hull

'A' party donned their cloaks and prepared to fly into witch country. Weets Hill got the muscles going and the lungs panting. Reaching the top we encountered near gale-force winds and quickly escaped to lower ground. On the way our revered leader decided to try out a mud bath on his feet, losing his boot in the process. All was recovered but we kept our distance! At Barley we girded our loins for the big one - Pendle Hill. Would our broomsticks be strong enough, we wondered? More to the point when we arrived at the top, would we be blown off into the ether? We survived, however, having seen the first snow of the season and having spent the day walking in beautiful countryside. Thanks to our intrepid leader and his efficient backup.

Report by Diane Exley

'B' Walk

Not since the War of the Roses (or was it only January of this year) had the Red Rose County seen such an incursion of White Roses! The 'B' party debussed at Barrowford (pronounced Barrow Ford - not Barrerferd in case of any confusion by non-locals!) to be met by the leader and two or three Lancastrian re-inforcements just in case... The route took us along the Pendle Way to Water Meetings below Blacko and its Tower, ironically close to the old Yorkshire boundary and spookily close to the haunts of local witches before pressing on upwards, over and down into Barley for lunch with some splendid views of "Old Pendle" on the way. A minor debate ensued over lunch about whether to order "wun scoan" or "wonn sconn" from the refreshment stall, but either way it went down quite well! The route then continued around the foot of Pendle Hill itself with views back over Barley and its valley, before a further stretch of open moorland preceded the last leg into the lovely village of Downham and appropriate refreshments. Many thanks to my larger than usual team of backups and assistants, including one with four legs!

Report by Philip Birtwistle

'C' Walk

Please click on the links below to view the photos

After dropping the 'A' and 'B' groups, the 'C's had a lengthy diversion to their start at Downham, a pretty hillside village with its beautiful church, nestling below the brooding mass of Pendle Hill. Withdrawal symptoms were experienced by some of the group, for the only time this year, the café was closed and no bacon sannies!! A most enjoyable, nicely paced walk over rolling fields, through little wooded valleys and along winding lanes. From the highest (not very) point, the unmistakeable hazy outlines of Pen-y-Ghent and Ingleborough could be seen, far off to the north east. Muddy patches were negotiated with care and no unhappy incidents. A very nice finish to the day was the warm (literally) bar of the "Assheton Arms" and its varied selection of liquid refreshments!! Many thanks to the leader Joan, ably backed by Stan.

Photos and report by Trevor Grimston

Wirksworth, Derbyshire - Sunday 17 December 2006

Walks Information Sheet (Microsoft Word document)

Walks Map (Adobe PDF document)

'A' Walk

'A' party, looking forward to a sunny start, were dismayed to find rain at the end of the rainbow instead of gold. Heavily trousered and rainproofed we made our way up to Riber Hall. Excitement came in the very steep descent to Old Matlock but all survived! A gentle walk through the woods led to a climb up to Masson Hill. The views were worth it though and the festive pies and mulled wine were much appreciated. Full of cheer we then descended to Bonsall. We were beginning to get the hang of this walk by now - steep descent followed by steep ascent, logical really. The Limestone Way took us to Leys Farm and a further descent. Inevitably an ascent (through very pleasant woodland) followed, leading on to Middleton and the very last descent into Wirksworth. A very interesting and enjoyable walk. Thanks to the leader and his admirable backup.

Report by Diane Exley

'C' Walk

Please click on the links below to view the photos

Photos by Trevor Grimston

Having been forewarned that there would be no coffee stop at the start but there could be 'a nice surprise!', we reached our destination - almost - having practically got the bus stuck under a railway bridge on this narrow country lane. By the time the driver had reversed all the way down again the rain was pouring so our leader, Brian, and his helpers, produced the surprise which consisted of mince pies and hot mulled wine. We eventually staggered off the coach, decked in wet gear, and proceeded on a very leisurely walk along the disused railway track to Wirksworth. The rain did eventually stop and although the railway track was much of a muchness, there were some very good views over the Derbyshire countryside. On leaving the track we headed across a few fields down into Wirksworth and a welcome cuppa. Thanks to our leaders for a good walk and especially for the seasonal refreshments.

Report by Joan Thompson

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