25th May 2020 - Fair Snape Fell & Parlick from Startifants Lane
With the restrictions due to COVID-19 being relaxed, Dad decided to take us to do these two summits again. These are very popular and being bank holiday many people had the same idea, and as such we had to park quite a way back on Startifants Lane from the corner. Our route was right on the tarmac drive to Wolfen Hall. At the second cattle grid climbed the waymarked stile on the right to walk ahead over pasture so avoiding the hall. Crossed a tarmac track to a stile by a gate on the left, then in a short way right over a stile, then along by the fence on the left and over a footbridge. On then to a stile by a gate after which the footpath descended right into a small valley of the Chipping Brook, where the bluebells made a magnificent sight. Crossed the footbridge then climbed by the fence on the left to a stile at the top of the slope. Continued ahead by the fence on the left to a stile by the next gate. Now half right over pasture guided by white topped posts to cross a tiny footbridge then stile in the fence, the path then being through the trees by the fence on the left to a stile and steps down to the access to Saddle End Farm. Went left through the farmyard via two gates. Thankfully the spring bolt on second had been fixed so did not fall out like last time. Now we kept left by the wall and through a kissing gate then to another gate and then another kissing gate and along a grassy path. This led to a kissing gate in the wall and then just followed the grassy cart track ever on up Saddle Fell, keeping left at junctions. As the gradient eased the path came near to a fence and so to a kissing gate in it. Now followed the soil and rock path over the heather moor eventually to a kissing gate in the fence. The summit of Fair Snape Fell was now a little way right reached by a grassy path then stone slabs over the bog and to a kissing gate in the fence to get to the cairn. We were quickly out for our picture and we had lunch. Returning to the kissing gate at the end of the made track, Dad now picked his way carefully across to a stile. Then on to join the good to the cairn shelter and trig point on Fair Snape Fell, where we sat on top for our picture, although due to Dad inadvertently altering a camera setting it did not turn out correct. Chatted to couple took our picture too. Then took the clear path across to a kissing gate and on to come by the wall and walk what is described as the best mile in Lancashire to Parlick. Truly wonderful views that were quite clear today to Morecambe Bay, the Fylde and over towards the Welsh hills. Descended then through the kissing gate left and on up to the shelter on Parlick for our picture this one with the camera on the correct setting. Then just followed the clear path that eventually came to a gate by the house called Fell Foot and just then a short walk to the car. Super day. So many people out walking and also lots of people paragliding, at times there being around 20 in the sky at the same time.
25th November 2015 - Pendle Hill from Barley
So the day arrived with the walk to the last of the Bowland Fells, to complete the challenge. This was as we had decided Pendle Hill, and the walk would be made more enjoyable with Uncle Eric for company. The day was dry with a bit of sun but quite cold in the wind. However this made a pleasant change after all the heavy rain over the recent weeks. Our start point was the village of Barley, the car park today being much quieter than the last time when spaces were at a premium due to the relay race on Pendle Hill. At the main road we took the lane opposite. This led up the Ogden Valley passing the Lower and Upper Reservoirs. Another area of water catchment for Lancashire built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Beyond the reservoirs the track became unsurfaced and then just a narrow path that eventually crossed the stream of Boar Clough. After a kissing gate a small inscribed stone sign indicating the Pendle Way pointed uphill. This climbed steeply for a section above Boar Clough, before the gradient eased. At a junction it was right on the clearly cairned way that climbed ever up but quite gently to the summit of Pendle Hill, the trig point being on a slightly raised stone circular plinth. So that was it the challenge complete, and we all let out a cheer. My other pals have completed more challenges, so I was particularly pleased to have done this one. It was windy so we say by the trig column for our picture. Then Uncle Eric took us sitting on top with Dad. While were were there a number of walkers reached the top, showing how popular this fell is. Now we retraced the route for a short way to go left at a fork and then soon took the clear path that cut back left to descend this steep side of the fell, eventually down to the Pendle House. On the Pendle Way again, the path went through a gate behind the house then through a kissing gate into a field. At the next gate it became a narrow path, that was soil, reinforced and cobbled at times as via a number of kissing gates took us past Brown House to Ings End. Then a short way on the access to cross a footbridge right and on a clear path over another footbridge, and finally down to Barley. We now sat in the car to have our sandwiches cake and tea. Dad and Uncle Eric went to the cafe at the car park called The Cabin. Here Dad had an all day breakfast with a doorstop slice of toast (over half inch thick) and butter and pot of tea. Uncle Eric had a bacon and sausage bap and hot chocolate. So what now?. Well there are still some low walks that Dad will be able to find in Bowland, but next year it is time we were back in the Lake District!
1st November 2015 - Top of Blaze Moss from Langden
A still day with fog that persisted all morning, so we only set off about 12:00. The mist never lifted at home, but as we got up towards Jubilee Tower suddenly it all cleared off. We parked at the start of the Langden Valley where there is the tea bar. Still sunny we set off along the paved road passing the waterworks. After a gate we were in access land and a few yards on a gate in the fence on the right gave access to the direction we wanted to go. A track climbed for a little then became a narrow trod that took us steeply to a fence, not marked on the map, enclosing an area of land. We kept ahead with the fence to our left then when this turned away, just climbed on to another such fence. Here Shaun suggested we go left by the fence to then follow it up right again keeping on up as it ended. The ground was a bit boggy and heathery too so hard going at times. The gradient began to ease and we now saw a fence to our right, that was marked on the map and by which we should continue to the ridge and junction with a cross fence. Through the kissing gate, turned right to find a path and after a short way come to the grid reference that is considered the summit of the Top of Blaze Moss, amongst the wide flat area. We were quickly out for our picture. The fog was hanging in the valleys but on top all was clear with cloudless blue sky and warm sun such that Dad was able to walk in just his t-shirt! So now followed the fence down to come to the road at the cattle grid by the Grey Stone of Trough that once marked the border between Lancashire & Yorkshire. Now down in the mist and fog again that persisted as we descended and walked back to the start. Dad now went to the tea bar to have a bacon and sausage bun (3 rashers of bacon and 2 sausages) and mug of tea. We he deserved it. He chatted to the owner about where we had been today and how the mist can suddenly come and go. So now that just leaves Pendle Hill to complete the challenge. This we plan to do with Uncle Eric.
17th October 2015 - Wheathead Height & Stang Top Moor from Barley & Weets Hill from Laneside Farm
This was our second foray to the Pendle area. For the first section we started from the village of Barley, that is dominated by the brooding presence of Pendle Hill. Not our objective today, which was just as well as on arrival there were cars everywhere, and marshals directing drivers. There was a relay race up Pendle Hill involving about 900 runners from various clubs. We had set off early at 08:00 so fortunately managed to get one of the last few parking places in the large car park. So leaving everyone behind, we set off through the village taking the tarmac lane signed Blacko-footpath only. This took us up past Lower Black Moss reservoir. Where the road turned to Foot House Gate Farm, we kept right the track becoming roughly surfaced. This led past Upper Black Moss Reservoir and finally to Black Moss Road. Crossed and took the access road to Mountain Farm. There are various paths here, but we just stuck to the access road coming in at the right side of the farm. Went on ahead and followed the waymarked route along a grassy trod that climbed steadily. On the map this joins another path from the farm, but heading for the highest ground we had drifted right with a wall ahead coming to a gate. Checking the GPS found we had reached the summit of Wheathead Height by direct approach rather than in a circle via Firber House. Armed with the summit grid reference the grassy mound near the wall so soon found. Dad got the flag out for our picture as it is such an uninteresting top. In point of fact the map shows the summit in the next field but this is not accessible with barbed wire overtopping the wall. Now walked on by the wall to soon come to a stile over it, then followed the path through long grass that joined a track from Jackson House Farm. Followed this right through some gates down to the road. Crossed and took the access track to Briercliffe Farm and on to take the diverted path below the lovely house of Higher Briercliffe. Here we went off original plan and used the access to the road rather than take a footpath left. Had we not done so we would not have seen the amusing sign that read, 'wilter close the piggin gate'! At the road it was left climbing to pass a house and soon go right on a signed bridleway. This soon brought us in sight of the brightly painted trig point at Stang Top Moor (red on two faces and blue on the other and on top). Dad took our picture here a little later, after we had struck right to climb a gate into access land and cross the rough ground to the unmarked summit-flag out again! Returned to the trig point for the picture then followed the bridleway down, the path forking left to a gate in the wall on the left. The path led down coming to a road that took us past White Hough Outdoor Centre and on down to the hamlet of White Hough. Here joined the Pendle Way going right to Barley. All the cars still there, but the runners were up on the hill. So now we relocated for the final summit. Took the road to Roughlee, then left along Blacko Bar Road and to the A682. Turned left to after a couple of miles go right on Stocks Lane. Drove to Laneside Farm, where the wide track of the Pennine Bridleway crosses. We had used Google Street View and its indication was correct that there was space to park. Walked south on the PBW the first part being tarmac until it turned to the farm. Ahead through a gate on a made soil & stone track climbing steadily with our objective Weets Hill now to the left. Through another gate the path continued climbing relentlessly to Weets House Farm. Here went left on the Pendle Way still climbing to after a little while take a path forking left and so to the summit trig point. Wow, what a superb view across Lancashire and to the Southern Bowland Fells. Also to Barnoldswick and distantly Pen-y-ghent and Ingleborough. Rather windy so we had to sit at the bottom of trig point for our picture. Met a gentleman who had run up from Barnoldswick with this dogs and Dad chatted a few minutes. For the descent Dad took a narrow path steeply down the SW flank to join the PBW and so cut off a corner, then walked back to the car. So that's it for the outlying Pendle Fells. Just Blaze Moss to do before coming back to Barley and climb Pendle Hill to complete the challenge. Now we went to Elaine's, Dad taking us in too. He tea, scone with butter and jam and caramel shortbread. Quiet when we got there, so Dad had a chance to chat with Elaine and later with Sharon. Good day.
11th October 2015 - The Rough, Spence Moor, Rigg of England & Black Hill from Sabden
So this was our first walk in the Pendle area, as part of the Bowland challenge and completely new countryside for us all. A mostly motorway route to the start, via M6, M61 & M65 to junction 8 then skirting Padiham and finally to Sabden, the car park being just beside the main street. Set off on the Clitheroe Road, a steady relentless climb out of the valley towards the Nick of Pendle. On pavement first, then out of the village, there was a path on the verge keeping us off the road. This ended at a car park. Here crossed the road and took the waymarked track the curved to a gate and stile. Crossed the pasture to an open gateway, then struck half right to another gate and up a narrow path to the access to Wilkin Heys. Went left past the farm on a continuing grassy track to fairly soon strike off right on a narrow path that soon gave out. Then just crossed the trackless ground to climb steadily to the summit of The Rough and its trig point. Met a gentleman coming the opposite way and Dad chatted a little. Rather windy so could not sit on the trig point. Now we headed right along the ridge to the car park at the Nick of Pendle, having climbed carefully and intervening wall. Crossed the road and headed up the track opposite. Well walked and suddenly there were lots of walkers. Soon realised why, as it is one of the routes to the very popular Pendle Hill. Steepish to Apronfull Hill then an easier gradient. Soon we took the narrow path right leaving all the walkers as they went on to Pendle Hill. The path led to a kissing gate. The main path was on ahead, but a sign left indicated a concessionary path by the wall, which we followed. Eventually we reached a kissing gate in the wall and through this followed the boggy track to the summit of Spence Moor. Wherever the summit exactly is is a matter of conjecture on the wide flat moor area. We decided the top was just to the left of the path and Dad got the flag out to brighten our picture. This was seen by a passing couple who understood! So onwards to a ladderstile over the wall and now descending to eventually reach a gate by Cock Clough Plantation. Took the stile into the wood the path by the wall clinging to the narrow bank above the deep ravine. After crossing a stream by a novel bridge the path then exited at a gate. Crossed the stile in the fence and descended to the road at Sabden Fold. Walked left to the cluster of houses at Lower Sabden Fold and on along Haddings Lane to Higher Town Farm. Went left past the buildings and just before a gate across the track, took the gate right into open pasture climbing to a path (part of the Pendle Way). Went right ascending then contoured left to the ridge. A gate in the wall to the left, then in the wall to the right led to the field in the centre of which stands the trig point of Rigg of England. Ignored this for now instead climbing the wall to the left then across this next field to a fence/gate. The intention being to then go through the gate to get back to the adjacent field that we thought had the highest point. This proved to be impossible due to being tied up and covered by a high netting fence! So returned and now visited the trig point. Returned then through the first gate to the field we thought contained the highest point. However it turned out is was in the next field that we had been in earlier! We were all pretty feed up now, but putting the camera and rucksack through separately Dad managed to slide over the wall under the fence and so reach the unmarked highest point. A most uninteresting summit. Sliding over the wall again, we now walked back to the very first gate. We needed to get to the road so walked straight on keeping the height to a stile in the far left corner. Turned left then at the junction went right along Stump Hall Lane. Followed this on and on passing some farms and then across at the crossroads. In all about 2 miles. By a car park it was over the stile in the wall right and left up to the summit of Black Hill with the trig point on a little mound. From here headed on the thin path towards Sabden. This meandered as it descended coming to the brink of a steep drop. Here it went right along the ridge then round left and ever on down to the road and just a short walk to the car. Good day and that is half the Pendle fells done.
4th October 2015 - Hawthornthwaite Fell from Well Brook Farm
After a couple of weeks off, due to Dad and Uncle Brian's holiday to Armathwaite Hall, we were happily out on the Bowland Fells again. The objective today was one of the remaining higher summits, Hawthornthwaite Fell. The culmination of a long east-west ridge, we had avoid this route, and instead tackle the climb up the steep northern flank. The day was mostly cloudy but very still and quite mild after a chilly start. Just off the main Trough road we parked on the rough roadside pull-in opposite Well Brook Farm. We had walked along this road early in the year before the start of the fell exploration. Going left, crossed the Marshaw Wyre and Bull Beck to very shortly take the wide surfaced track left through a gate marked 'private'. Strode the track to the next gate, about 2-3 mins, to gain the access land. The track swung right in a wide circle crossing a line of grouse butts. Plumes of smoke were rising at various points as controlled burning of the heather was being undertaken. A cluster of land rovers were parked by the track their owners spread about on the fell with their long handled rubber bladed beaters to control the burning. Dad got into conversation with one gentleman, who was from Penrith. He told us the purpose was to burn off the taller areas of heather. Then the shorter areas would continue to grow and the burnt areas regenerate. The intention as he put it was to create a patchwork effect, or mosaic as was the current buzz word! Not being a local he had been initially confused by the reference to Havenet Fell, which is the local name for Hawthornthwaite Fell. We knew from the map that Dad faced a section of steep ascent, and he informed me that the track was referred to as Heartbreak Hill! So we strolled on, the gradient steepening and then becoming very steep as it zig-zagged up the fell. Finally the last grouse butt was reached at the end of the surfaced track. To the left a cart track continued upwards, steeply for a short way before the gradient eased. This meandered on at times a little indistinct. It continued through the gate in the fence, and amongst a landscape of peat hags, led on to another fence. Following this right, ahead on the far side was a rise that the GPS indicated was the summit. Dad climbed the fence and then the few yards up the rise to the summit marked by two stones. We jumped out and settled for our picture. Now all that remained was to visit the fallen trig point that is 1 metre lower. Kept on by the fence to the kissing gate to cross again to the other side. Dad did not notice we had passed the trig point as he had been distracted getting past a boggy area. It lies forlornly on its side. The amount of foundation is twice the height of the column indicating how extreme the erosion has been. Sitting on the side this has to be the most unusual picture we have had taken at a trig point. Then we just retraced the outward route to the car. Good to get this one done.
19th September 2015 - Ward's Stone, Wolfhole Crag & Brennand Great Hill from Tower Lodge
There was excitement amongst some of my pals and I, as this walk would mean we had caught up with Shaun and Tetley. As well because of its length, it effectively clears the way for the completion of the Bowland Fells. A dry day with some sunny intervals after the early morning mist lifted off the tops. Our start point was Tower Lodge, where just a few yards beyond there is some parking on the opposite side of the road. Through the gate by the Lodge we walked the wide track that climbed steadily, then after another gate we took the path left (Wyre Way). Over the rough pasture we came to a stepped gap stile, then half right to a ladderstile. Now turned sharp right by the wall to a gate then on to a stile in a cross wall. Walking down by the wood to waymarked gate and on to Gilberton Farm. We went left of the farm but should have gone to the right. Eventually trespassed over a field to get on track by a footbridge we should have crossed. Crossed a plank bridge then walked the good track to the hamlet of Tarnbrook. Turned right to walk the surfaced track that wound steadily upwards eventually to a gate in a wall below the rocky escarpment of Coppy Heads. Here the track zig-zagged up this passing a luncheon hut and on to pass another and reach a junction. Shortly another junction was reached and we kept right to climb on to a circular area we assume is used for parking for grouse shoots. Now it was over trackless ground to continue the ascent of Ward's Stone. Mist obscured the way ahead but using the GPS we navigated a best as possible to the flat top and then left to gain the trig point at 560m with adjacent the large boulder that give the fell its name. Dad took our picture and then we walked across the flat top passing a boundary stone with a date of 1890, and on to the second trig point at 561m. Just yards before is a peat hag that has a cairn, measured as 563m. Dad took our picture here and at the adjacent trig point. It is generally excepted that the 561m trig point is the summit. The peat hag is not the only one, so quite possibly others could equally be as high. Now followed the path down to a junction of fences where a stone stands that is called the Queen's Chair. Followed the right of the fences down and up over an area called the Mounds, and so to a junction of walls, to keep on right over Grey Crag. There was a narrow path all the way with the only obstacles being peat hags at times. So on and on by the wall and fence crossing a surfaced track. We had walked the far end of this up Alderstone Bank recently and we had seen its other end by the higher luncheon hut on the way up Ward's Stone. Onward by the wall we then finally came to a three-armed signpost. We went left initially to climb gently to Wolfhole Crag. Just as we approached the trig point met a group of about half a dozen walkers coming the opposite way, the only other walkers we saw all day. Photo done and a bite to eat , we now retraced to junction, going left by the fence and later a wall to Brennand Great Hill. Bit harder going here, as not walked so often, so the path was poorer, and more peat hags too. Climb up the fell was not very steep and better ground too. Passed a huge boulder!! The top is wide and flat and we took the summit as by the wall, as Dad could not see the spot height on the map, but later when we got home saw that it is shown as a little way from the wall, but overall there is no change in altitude. So now headed down by the wall to come to a boulder topped rise that is called Millers House. Here a signpost pointed right to Tower Lodge. The thin path soon disappeared and it was just trackless rough and rather boggy moor. So Dad navigated with the GPS checking position frequently for progress. Eventually we reached a broken wall and beyond a wall that the map indicated the path ran beside. Followed by the wall at one point reaching a hut with netting sides. Gamekeepers we thought from the dead rabbits hung up. Dad got his foot caught in a wire trap here, but was able to free it off my boot. He did not think much of these being set on a footpath! Out of the woodland bordering the path we came to White Moor, keeping on by the wall to a ladderstile on the left. Over this a wide surfaced track led down to Tower Lodge. Great walk.
13th September 2015 - Mellor Knoll, Totridge & Hareden Valley
For the third time we parked above Langden Brook just outside Dunsop Bridge, but finally we were climbing the fells to the west. The day was quite perfect, dry with sunny periods and little wind, so shorts still the order of the day for Dad! Setting off we walked the short way back along the road to go left to Hareden Farm. Our route on the bridleway was signed left through a gate. Indistinct initially, after a gate by the plantation a track emerged for a little way. To avoid the cows Dad crossed right and walked by the wall. Beyond the next gate we were under the slopes of Mellor Knoll, Dad making easy work of the climb to its summit marked by a cairn, that we quickly settled on for our picture. Extensive views from here looking up to the Trough and over the valley towards Slaidburn with the fells left that we had climbed recently. Descended and returned to the gate, but did not go through but descended the rough ground to reach a gate in the wall. Beyond turned left to make the steep ascent of Totridge. The wall became a fence and led to a stile in a cross fence then it was on up by the wall, to where this turned away left. Kept on ahead still steeply the path zig-zagging finally to more level ground with peat hags crossing this on a path to reach the trig point. This fell is truly worthy of the Lake District! Again superb views, the hillsides purple with heather. We sat on the trig point for our picture then we had a quick snack. Leaving we met a gentleman heading for the top. He was from Derbyshire and Dad and he had a chat. He is just starting to explore this area so Dad mentioned Matt O'Brien's website for suggestions of routes. Now we made the trackless descent NW over heather, grass and bracken. Climbed two fences then came down to the Hareden Brook that Dad crossed without incident. Now he scrambled steeply up the sheer ground to climb another fence to reach the surfaced grouse track. This was followed right through the lovely Hareden Valley eventually passing the waterworks installations and so the the farm, where Dad chatted to the farmer. He told him how much we were enjoying walking this area. He told us that when the Hodder Show is held in Dunsop Bridge the fell race is over Mellor Knoll and Totridge. So now to the car. Setting off Dad shortly stopped at the popular refreshment van by start of Langden Valley, where Dad had a delicious bacon and sausage bap and mug of tea. Another good day. Thank you Dad!
6th September 2015 -Dunsop Valley & Middle Knoll
On a glorious morning with virtually cloudless skies, we parked again above Langden Brook. A short way on the road towards Dunsop Bridge, it was through the gate on the left, and via a stile crossing two pastures to the road by Closes Barn. Now walked the beautiful way up the Dunsop Valley, with for most of the time our objective Middle Knoll dominating the view ahead. The road is quiet, as it is private, and only traffic to the houses and farms as well as United Utilities for the water installations, is allowed. Only one car passed us. Otherwise just peaceful level stroll of about 2.5 miles to where the road splits. Ahead to the Brennand Valley with its two farms, and right, our route, to Whitendale. We were now walking the lower slopes of Middle Knoll. It is divided by a wall, the NE part being access land, the rest not. So we walked until we came to the wall and then turned up the fell on the right side. A steep pathless climb over rough heather, bracken and bilberry. Finally the gradient levelled as the wall turned right at a corner. Over it about 75 yards to then left we could see the summit cairn. No stile but Dad made short work of climbing the wall and minutes later we were at the cairn where we sat for our picture. Wonderful views from here, and beautiful with swathes of purple heather on the hillsides. For the descent Dad opted to stay on this side of the wall. It was a bit steeper than the climb, but he got the descent over pretty quickly. There is a fence blocking the way but we cut right by it to a gate and then just a short way to the road. Now we retraced the route to the start. Saw more people now walking up the valley as it is popular. So now Dad went to Elaine's for tea and a piece of cake. Very busy with all the tables outside taken and a good few inside taken. Everyone was rushed off their feet. Nice walk and good to get this summit done.
23rd August 2015 - Baxton Fell & Burn Fell from Wood House Lane end
A cloudy day but no wind, which was a change after the last few days, so pleasant walking weather. Parked in the rough pull-in just after the gate at the end of Wood House Lane. The ongoing track is the opposite end of the Hornby Road and if followed all the way would have taken us to High Salter that was our start point for Mallowdale Pike. Very soon there was a junction where we kept right, the track left being our return route. Here there was another of the poignant memorials to airmen who crashed in WW2. The track was surfaced for a good distance as we passed through gates one being metal and locked with a heavy chain and padlock to stop traffic. Now beautiful Croasdale opened up the hillsides purple with heather. So peaceful today and just total silence. Dad felt he could have been the last person on earth! Away to the right in the valley was a small building with walled sheepfolds. The map refers to this as the House of Croasdale. Walking on the track descended to New Bridge, where the builders had put small pavements either side! Rather superfluous we thought. Then climbed on to a corner where there was a stone with and inscription 'Witches 400'. This was erected in 2012 to mark the 400th anniversary of the trials at Lancaster Castle of the Pendle Witches. Here we took the grassy track left ascending to pass grouse butts after which the path ended and it was just a trudge to the fence, where a gate allowed access to the far side, and just a short way left to the top of Baxton Fell. Peat hags and bog here. It was hard to decide the highest point as any one of a few could have been. In the end we opted for one with a white topped post that did seem just a bit higher according to the GPS than the others. It was a short way further south than than where the map shows the spot height. We do not necessarily think the post is meant to mark the summit. This is at a fence corner and we now just followed by this for about a mile. Rough ground with heather and a few peat hags and bogs. There was at times a bit of a trod near the fence. Eventually the fence became a wall and at Dunsop Head we intercepted with the bridleway, taking the gate left through the wall. For now took the bridleway right to soon leave this and after crossing some very boggy ground follow the wall on a tractor track gently up to the trig point of Burn Fell. Extensive views from here of Brennand Great Hill, Wolfhole Crag, Ward Stone and Totridge etc. As it was so still we were able to sit on top for our picture. We had a quick snack but the big black flies and midges had us soon off again. Retraced to the gate, passing two girls. Now we went right trying to find the bridleway but really lost in the bog! Then we saw another walker coming towards us and Dad commented about the path. He replied, "I'm on it." It was just a few yards to our right. So a grassy path that developed into a rocky track, this was followed down to the junction and the few yards right to the car. Now Dad went to the village hall in Dunsop Bridge. Here he had a pot of tea with hot water, flapjack, tea loaf and cherry and almond slice all for £4!! Cakes absolutely delicious, and made by the ladies who were serving. Proceeds for the up keep of the hall. Busy too. They open Easter to end of August on a Sunday, so this was the last day this year. On leaving Dad told them how delicious the cakes were and added, "see you next year and Happy Christmas!"
23rd August 2015 - Staple Oak Fell, Whins Brow & Dunsop Valley
A mostly sunny day and warm but strong wind. So continuing our exploration of Bowland getting into the central area. Parked above Langden Brook closest to Dunsop Bridge. Walked the road towards Lancaster passing Sykes Farm and then at Trough Barn took the signed bridleway right. Surfaced, this meandered to the long ruinous Trough House. Beyond the track was more rough and unkempt. By some woodland kept ahead by the wall on the right, now just a narrow intermittent path. This led on upwards through long clumps of grass to a gate in the wall. Then as a trod it led on up to the left of Bleashaw Clough to the ridge. Here went back left to bag the Staple Oak Fell. Rough ground to the hurdle in the fence, then followed (more so on the return) a quad bike track that avoided some of the peat hags and bog. Finally cut up left to the flat summit. There is a solitary tree that could be the top, but we reckoned the hump just a bit SW was higher and this is where we sat for our picture. Returned to the main path, and continued to a gate. Ignored this for now, and went left by the fence following an intermittent trod through some peat hags and on by the fence to reach the trig point on Whins Brow. This is on the other side of the fence and both kissing gates accessing it had been tied up! Dad climbed the fence. Very windy here so we had to be content to sit at bottom of trig point. Retraced to take gate left and walk on. Superb views of Brennand Valley and Middle Knoll opened up. Descended the steep narrow rocky trod of Oster Rake that clings to the fell with a steep drop right! Very windy so made this more difficult. Finally reached Brennand Farm. Here the plan had been to climb the steep sided Middle Knoll, but Dad did not feel up for it, so we were happy to leave it for another day. Stopped for lunch in this beautiful situation, the valley ringed by hills all round. Walked the track above Lower Brennand Farm the only other habitation, and then the road through the Dunsop Valley. This level way passed waterworks installations and was a delightful stroll. Eventually we reached Closes Barn, where just before struck right across pasture to a stile over the wall and down to the road and then just a very short distance to the car. A lady passing by noticed and commented on us. Now it was a reccy mission for a future walk to Baxton Fell & Burn Fell. Drove to Newton, turning off up Back Lane a narrow single track road, following this until just after a sharp bend it was left on House Lane, that ends at the southern end of the track, the Hornby Road. Stopped where a car and van was parked as the occupants had just come back along the lane. They told us that there was a little space to park just after the gate at the end of the road. Good news! So now Dad drove to Elaine's for refreshments. having cake and tea. We got to go in as well. It had been very all day but Dad timed his arrival when it was getting a little quieter. Good day.
8th August 2015 - Whelp Stone Crag from above Upper Sheep Wash Farm
A lovely day with lots of sunshine and light wind. Like summer for once!! Today we were tackling Whelp Stone Crag, and we had devised a route starting from the track junction above Upper Sheep Wash Farm, that we had passed on last weeks walk. Parked by a hut on the grass so not blocking any gates or track. Saw the farmer from Low Bank who was tending his sheep and chatted. He asked where we were going and said that his father who has Higher Brayshaw owns Whelp Stone Crag. So set off up the wide grassy track between walls after climbing the hurdle. Passed through two gates after which the track was open to the right. Here long tussocks grew in the track, then it just became a narrow trod to a gap stile in the wall. Blocked by a large stone but Dad got over OK. Walked on to cross a broken wall then to a stepped gap stile in the next. Then slightly left to gap in wall and so down to the edge of the forest going left at a wall corner through a gap on to a track that was a bit muddy at times. This became a narrow trod and led to a stile to a track between the forest. At next wall went left onto an off road cycle route leaving this to climb to a gate and beyond the short climb to the trig point on Whelp Stone Crag. There was a group of people here and talking to a lady and gentleman discovered that they were scattering the ashes of his brother. The gentleman said that in his youth he came to stay at Whelpstone Lodge every weekend and they played on the fell. He then came at times for about 40 years. A wonderful place to scatter the ashes with such connections and terrific views all round. They let me take our picture before we left them to the reason for the visit. Dad made a steep descent but later realised that we should just have taken the path left from the summit which was the way the party had come up. Down on the plain we looked at the map and deduced we should go left to a gap in the wall and then right through a gate and to the left of a wall corner to a gate in the wall. By now we had been caught up by the party and Dad talked again to the gentleman who shared the memories. We hope our being there did not spoil the day for them. Beyond the gate a track led shortly to Whelpstone Lodge that is now sadly derelict. Followed the road past Ragged Hall and Hesley to a junction here going left, to soon by Hesley Hall take the surfaced track left that via a few gates led to the start. Now drove back on the single track road having to open and close again two gates. Thankfully in both directions we did not meet another vehicle as there are few passing places. Now to Elaine's for Dad to have a meal, being welcomed by all. He had lovely sausages eggs and chips then blackcurrant crumble and custard and tea of course. Rounded the day off to a 'T'. Dad chatted with Elaine. She and Jonathan had had a good time in Liverpool. Before driving home Dad went and chatted to Jonathan and Lucy. Good day!
2nd August 2015 - Knotteranum & Green Knotts from Keasden Road, Circuit to Giggleswick Common from Giggleswick Station
So a day that was cold to start, bearing in mind it is supposed to be summer and no sun, with rain at times. We had delayed the start on the basis of the forecast for improvement in the afternoon, but it was wrong! First we returned to the Bowland Knotts, parking at the summit of the Keasden Road at 1385ft. Crossed the cattle grid and walked left beside the wall, our first objective Knotteranum soon coming into sight. A cross wall blocked our way but there was a stone step stile to surmount it and soon after some little climbing we reached the ridge. The ground had been pretty trackless rough and boggy. Then walked right out along the promontory. There is nothing to mark the summit and two rises were about equal height so Dad took the grid ref and our photo at each. Measuring the map later the furthest one proved to be at the spot height and so the summit. Descended and crossed the stile again. The map shows a spot height at Green Knotts and this is another rib with drops all round so we decided that this was to be included as a summit on our list. Crossed half left from the stile and climbed to the rib going left to near its end where there are boulders, and we were able to find highest for the grid reference and our picture. Then headed over the rough ground to the road and up to the car. It had drizzled a bit and the sky was black and full of rain. Dad's timing was impeccable as just after we got in the car it poured down. So that was mission one done.
Now drove to Giggleswick Station for parking. From the station went right on the path to the road junction going right under the bridge then left on signed path to Littlebank via a stile. Crossed the field with the wall to the left, through a gate and on to a step stile in next wall. Then over a step stile in wall on right to go left down to another stile and over the field to gate into next and finally another gate to the farmyard. Crossed the access to a step stile in the wall to then cross slightly left to a stile in the wall on the far side. Walked across the field avoiding the large pool of water. At the next gate the path divides and we went right to a gate onto a track. Here it was left off the track to another waymark. We should have kept on but low which we did finally to a stile in a fence and across the next field to the right of two new wooden gates into woods. Here it was half right up to a gated stile in the wall. The next big field was crossed to a waymarked gate in the far left corner. Through this crossed a grass bridge over a small stream and left to a wide track. This is called Swainstead Raike and led to a narrow road. Walked right to pass a farm called Lower Sheep Wash, and shortly at a corner take the signed path that is the access to Upper Sheep Wash. We followed this faithfully, but really the footpath is soon right where the meadowsweet was in profusion. As we got a bit further this was realised as the sign in the opposite direction pointed this route. We investigated and saw an extremely narrow stone bridge that begged to be photographed. This spans Rathmell Beck, and just upstream is a pool that has the remains of what may have been a dam and was perhaps where the sheep wash took place? Walked past the farm and to a junction of tracks, but our route was sharp right through a gate and across the field to find the step stile in the cross wall and then walk up to Low Bank Farm. Crossed an access and climbed the bank to a gate onto another track soon leaving this left to a gap stile in the wall. Now we were on access land and Rathmell Common. So headed on. The terrain was long tussocky grass, bog and bracken as tall as Dad! Tough crossing here and it started raining. No path, but Big Hill was in view. So we headed for this climbing up and turning left to head for the summit. This revealed itself at a brow being further on and a final steepish pull took us to the flat top, the second hump we decided being the summit. Despite the rain we were out for our picture. So headed off down by the ascent route but kept more left to come by a wall and follow this down to the road. Went right passing Sandford Farm and then Lower Wham. Just past here the plan had been to go over the fields, but in view of the time and Dad wanting to get to Elaine's for tea and cake, we kept on the road all the way to the start arriving just about 16:00, and by chance seeing one of the very few Sunday trains heading for Morecambe! It had stopped raining along the road so we all had dried out a bit. Now to Elaine's, Dad chatting to her, Kelly and Emma and Sharon. Good time and he had a large pot of tea and piece of chocolate caramel shortbread. Good day despite the rain.
25th July 2015 - Mallowdale Pike & Hawkshead from High Salter
Today we explored and area none of us had ever walked in before. The day was sunny to start and warm but later it clouded over as a shower front came in but only a little light rain where we were. Near Hornby turned up the road to Roeburndale West, mostly single track, the tarmac ending at High Salter Farm. Stopped at the gate to the yard, and saw the farmer Dad asking if we could park just inside. This was not possible as he was sorting his sheep today, but said we could park by a pile of stones just a few hundred yards back. This was at the junction with the access track to Mallowdale, where we had to go. So it turned out better as we did not have to use the footpath from High Salter. So the surfaced track headed to Mallowdale descending to cross the bridge over the River Roeburn and climbing to the farm. We came to a facing gate, but this was not our route. We went right through a gateway to then immediately go left through a gate and walk a good surfaced track between walls. Via gates this was followed to come by a wall on the left then go through this and up to a gate to the open fell. End of the track and ongoing it was just a quad bike track over the grass. All the time our objective Mallowdale Pike was in view in front. We reached some grouse butts. The map shows a tarn, so we decided to go left and down to find this which we did after a bit of wandering about. Waste of time though as dried up! So followed the grouse butts to their end, then onwards there was a quad bike track that climbed to the shoulder and turned up to the top. Not as hard as Dad had expected. There is a memorial cairn to Anthony Mason-Hornby where we sat for our picture. However the highest point is about 30 yards before this and unmarked. Lads sat on grass with flag, here for the official summit picture. So set off down the fell heading for a surfaced shooters track. There is no path and we did not end up at the shooting cabin but rather further NE so cut a corner. The terrain was rough bilberry & heather moor, and hard going but Dad is well used to it!! So at the track it was left to descend and recross the River Roeburn and make the steep climb up Alderstone Bank to the track Hornby Road. Went straight across the grassy ground to the rise that is Hawkshead where the obvious summit is marked by just two small stones. From here headed roughly east to regain the track and follow it to Higher Salter. Along here was where it rained a little, but the main rain fell on Mallowdale Pike & Ward's Stone and looking back it was very black indeed. Superb views of the Three Peaks, Whit Moor and Lune Valley. Saw no other walkers but not surprised at all. So now drove to Wray and went to Bridge House Farm. Here Dad had tea, bakewell tart and chocolate caramel shortbread. The last time he was here was when our pal Wray was adopted on 23rd December 2012. Good day.
19th July 2015 -Grize Dale, Scorton & Nicky Nook from Grizedale Bridge
It had been nearly 35 years since Dad had climbed Nicky Nook and that day he did it with Uncle Brian. Now part of the Bowland Fells challenge, it needed to be climbed again for us. Parking is not easy in Scorton, so we opted to start at the rough pull in at Grizedale Bridge, on the Oakenclough road. The day was dry with some sun, but a cool wind. From the parking a gravel path leads through three gates to a junction, where it was left over the footbridge and into Holme Wood. Just beautiful woodland, and in the spring it would be magnificent with the rhododendrons in bloom. A good path with many boardwalks over the boggy areas. It bends right past and arm of Grizedale Dock Reservoir and so to a wide surfaced bridleway. Here turned left and walked the sylvan way through the lovely Grize Dale. Must try and come in the autumn as the colours will be amazing. Eventually the track reaches a junction where we climbed the stile right and followed the path to a gate and kissing gate on to Higher Lane. Passed the house called Slean End, and then took the signed path left via a gap stile and steps. Crossed the field diagonally to another stile then on to climb two more and pass left of a brick building and to Tithe Barn Lane. This was followed left under the M6 and into Scorton. Turned right at the junction diverting to get a picture of St Peters Church. Then through the village to go right uphill on Snowhill Lane. Crossed the M6 and on to the junction with Higher Lane. Crossed this left to take the good soil path that climbs steeply at first then more gently to the trig point on Nicky Nook. Extensive views of the Fylde and Morecambe Bay! Dad took our picture, as usual. Then heading east took the left fork at a junction of paths to a stile in the wall and descend to the bridleway again. There are two stone towers that mark the route of the Thirlmere Aqueduct. Right on the bridleway to soon reach the gate into Holme Wood and retrace the outwards route to the car. Nice easy walk, and we have caught up with Dad.
15th July 2015 -Longridge Fell (Spire Hill) from Jeffrey Hill. Ascent to Marl Hill Moor
So continuing our exploration of Bowland ticking off two summits. For the first our start point was at Jeffrey Hill a superb viewpoint across the fields with Parlick, Fair Snape Fell, Saddle Fell & Fair Oak Fell as the backdrop. The day was dry and mostly sunny with a cool wind especially early on. Dad chatted with a couple who engaged him in conversation asking about the view. They were from Cambridge and she commented that it was nice to see hills being so flat there. They saw us and Dad explained and mentioned our website. So, set off down the road to the junction stopping to photograph the unusual sculpture. Went right then soon left over stile and downhill across pasture and over a further stile then round the corner of a fence to left and so out to the road via a gate. Left in front of the imposing Thornley Hall, then right down the access and through Thornley Hall Farm and out on a track through fields to Park Wood. Took the left fork through a gate and then round and along the left side of the wood to another gate (disturbed a hawk here that flew off). On to stone step stile then by fence on right to cross a footbridge. Over the next field and climbed a fence to get to stile, but ignored this to go left to gate into yard and along the access to the road. Now left to just before Gibbon Hill Bridge to go down the metal ladder and walk the path by the River Loud. Vegetation at its height so Dad had to contend with nettles and brambles-he got stung a bit being in shorts. A stile led to a field where the vegetation had been cut. Climbed a waymarked hurdle to a cross footbridge and go immediately left to cross the stepping stones over the River Loud. Lovely here. Continued in the same direction on the stiled way eventually to a road at Loud Mytham Bridge. In parts the path was muddy and on the very brink of the bank above the river so Dad took great care not to slip! Crossed the bridge to a junction then left for about 100 yards to ladderstile on the right. Here we deviated, not deliberately, to right side of the field and came to the road on the path past Wood Top. Turned left to walk the road and went right through a gate at the second of two footpath signs (only a post a sign broken off). Walked up the field taking the stile in the fence on the right then on south over a stile and up the field to the road via two gates. Now left past Weedacre Farm and then right on a signed footpath. Dad forced his way through the thick vegetation to via a stile exit into a open field and climb gently to a ladderstile over the wall. Now half right on a good path that climbed steadily Spire Hill to the ridge and wall, going left to the clearly seen and white painted trig point. Photo time for us! Superb views of the Bowland Fells and we could pick Marl Hill Moor our next objective. Retraced and continued to climb a stile and on by the wall to then take a path right that led round the shoulder of the fell to the car park.
Now for part two. Dad drove the country lanes to park on the verge opposite the drive to Crimpton Farm. A narrow section of woodland borders the road on the other side of which is the access land. Walked through this and climbed the fence to the access land. Walked up the grassy field to reach a stile and beyond headed for the higher ground picking up a waymarked path (not on map). Followed this to the brow where the path went left. Our way was right to cross by a hummock, then on towards the wall as the ground climbed slightly and pick a tussock as the summit(?) where we had our photo taken with the flag to add colour to the otherwise featureless area. Superb views again, including distantly all the 'Three Peaks'. Retraced route to car. Returning along the lane we again the hedgehog that was still snuffling about by and in the road! Thank goodness it is a very quiet lane. Dad stopped and took its picture.
27th June 2015 -Hazelhurst Fell & Winny Bank from Delph Lane
To climb these fells our start was at the small parking area on Delph Lane, the nearest to the access point at Stang Yule. The day was dry with quite a bit of sun but breezy at times. From the parking walked left uphill to take the narrow footpath right shortly to a gate and up to a track. Went left behind Stang Yule and through two gates to open fell. Found the overgrown track, just a grassy depression really, heading NE up Oakenclough Fell. It petered out as expected then it was then just a rough traverse over the heather and bilberry moor. Dad was glad to get that section done! Coming into the end of the woodland on the right where the wall turns down, we reached as expected a side surfaced track where it was left to then bend right and ascend Hazelhurst Fell. At the brow there was a rough track for the grouse parties. Followed this a little way then struck left the short distance to the trig point, where we sat on top for our picture and had lunch. Then returned to the main track. Fine views of Fair Snape Fell & Parlick and the wide green farmland of Bleasdale. We picked out the little church St Eadmer's we had visited as well as the trees surrounding the Bleasdale Circle. Continued on the track crossing Clough Heads Brook in a dip and up and round to a junction. We had spotted an extra summit of Winny Bank, and happily Dad decided to take us there. So went left and followed the track as it rounded the fell to the left. Beside the track is the poignant memorial to the airmen, who over the years who have crashed and been killed on the Bowland Fells. At the brow struck off right over rough terrain to Winny Bank. Here met the only other walkers-two brothers walking from Parlick to Nicky Nook. A long way - did we not envy them at all! The summit area is pretty flat with a few lumps so hard to judge. However casting about, Dad walked a little way left and we spotted a small cairn which pretty much is the highest point. We sat round this for our picture. Now returned to the track and retraced to the junction, then going on ahead to descend quite steeply for a while in zig-zags to come past some woods and via a gate into pasture where there were inquisitive cows. Through another gate the track led to the tarmac lane by Hazelhurst Farm. Walked right through Clough Heads Woods and past Clough Heads Cottages to a junction. Now went straight on through the right hand gate on a fenced track to gate into a field and then a kissing gate into a large rough pasture. The route was diagonally left but Dad kept by the fence to the right for a while to get past the cows who actually ignored us. A gate gave access to a track through Broadgate Wood and on to Broadgate Farm. Just before the buildings the path is now diverted left through a kissing gate then right across a track to a waymarked gate into a field. Walked up with the fence to the left. Again the path is now diverted not going through the gate in the fence but keeping on to a kissing gate, and then another (redundant as fence has gone!) passing right of High Moor. Followed the fence round left to a gate onto the access and so right to the road and right uphill to the parking. A good walk and thanks to the tracks not a hard as it might have been. Good day, and a special celebration for our pal Tetley who was 17 today. Happy Birthday!!
21st June 2015 -Beacon Fell, via Whitechapel & River Brock
This was one of the catch up summits, as only Shaun and Tetley had climbed it before on 2004. A dry day if rather cloudy and windy too. So, Dad was not in shorts, which was to be a good thing due to the nettles crowding in on some of the paths! Parking at the Beacon Fell Visitor Centre, where at 11:00 the number of cars could be counted on the fingers of one hand, we took the path from the left side of the car park that descends through the trees and into a field. Walked down some way then went left to find a track leading via gates to Crombleholme Farm to a minor road. Going right, soon at at bend we took the tack left crossing the stream and following the track swinging up right. Shortly went left across large field gently down to a stile right near its end. Crossed the rough pasture to pass through a gate and then at the far side cross a bridge and through a gate, to walk an overgrown path to the road. Here we made a short diversion right to see St James's Church Whitechapel, then returned to climb the stile to the Cross Keys pub, that was undergoing extensive refurbishments. Through the farmyard, and into a field, it was right to a stile and then across to the hedge corner and on to a tree, where went half left to a stile. Then right via stiles to a road. Turned left, then right on the wide concrete access to Lower Trotter Hill, circling round the buildings and past a house. Took the left hand gate to a stile, then followed the field edge eventually going left and along a stony track to a road. Walked right to a bend, then kept ahead on a descending rough and muddy track, that emerged into an open glade. Stopped here for lunch sitting on a fallen tree and Dad took our picture too. Then onwards to cross the River Brock by a footbridge and on a few paces to join a well walked path, that was followed right to Brock Mill Bridge. Crossing the bridge it was left through a gateway and up the tarmac track, to go right at a footpath sign up a path to gate into field. Turned right to the wood end and crossed a stile and footbridge right and on to the lovely house of Lower Lickhurst. Followed the boundary right to find a kissing gate to the drive and on this to the road. Here we went a few paces left, then right on the drive of Middle Lickhurst, leaving this via stile ahead into field. Followed the stiled way to eventually emerge onto the road via a footbridge. Went right to soon cross a stile left and diagonally to an isolated thorn tree. Walked on to a gateway and then to a stile and footbridge. Kept ahead by an old boundary now a muddy depression then drifted left to power lines, following these to a waymarked post. So now finally we were heading to the summit. Turned right uphill to cross the road and take the track rising through the forest. At a junction went left and soon right uphill to the trig point on Beacon Fell. Lots of people up here but Dad set us up by the trig point for the usual picture. Then walked down by a fence to a surfaced track into the woods, and kept straight on to descend to the visitor centre. There was a cafe here so naturally Dad went for tea and cake. Well he deserved it after taking us on another lovely walk. The car park contrast to this morning was now full.
12th June 2015 -River Lune, Claughton & Whit Moor from Bull Beck & Bowland Knotts from the Keasden Road
So more exploration of the Forest of Bowland and ticking off another two summits. The day was perhaps the hottest of the year so far and sunny too for the most part and for the first time Dad was walking in shorts and t-shirt. Starting from Bull Beck we were repeating a walk that my pals had done a few times, but it was completely new to me. There were some variations so some new ground for us all, particularly the summit. Crossed the road and walked the old railway track to exit on to the flood plain of the River Lune. Climbed a stile then over a sturdy footbridge that spans a side stream and on following the river upstream. Passed a hut that we finally deduced was a lunch box for the angling association with a provision for anglers to clip their rods into slots in an board. Lovely views of the river shining blue in the sun. Crossed another stile and then at a gate went half right to a gate and then on to the top left of the next field. Here crossed a bridge and on to a gate in the far side of the field and on to a road. Turned right along this past houses to the main road by the Fenwick Arms. Crossed and climbed the track opposite taking the right fork at the divide and on up the metalled road climbing steeply to eventually pass the entrance to Claughton Hall. The path now in a series of bends goes round the grounds and then eventually passes under the ropeway for the brick works. We were sad that it was not operating today, but we saw some of the buckets close up. Rounding more bends the path climbed to pass Moorcock Hall. Last time this lay unfinished, but now work in underway on the interior. What a place to live as there are fantastic views of the Lune Valley and Morecambe Bay. Soon now came to a gate to the road, but just before took the gate left to walk a wide stony track past the wind farm and on up to a gate. The track continues ahead, but after 10yards we took a grassy track left over the moor and then going right at the fork soon reached the trig point on Whit Moor. Extensive views all around to the Bay, Lakes Fells, Yorkshire Fells etc. Quickly jumped out and settled on top for our picture. Then we had a quick snack before reversing the route to the gate by the wind farm and then left through gate onto Quarry Road descending this to eventually take the access to Annas Ghyll Farm. Walked the stony track up an down. Just before the cattle grid to the yard, an arrow pointed to a waymarked gate into the yard then immediately left through another gate and right up the field by the wall. Crossed the gap stile in the cross wall then on with the wall on the left keeping ahead when this dropped away to come by a wall on the right and so to a stepped gap stile. Then down the next large pasture to a stile onto the road. Turned left downhill to Kirk Beck Bridge. Just before went right on street to very shortly walk the very narrow signed footpath right between houses, to a kissing gate. Then on over the field past a redundant stile and bending left down to a stile onto the main road and the short way left to the start.
So now decided to get Bowland Knotts out of the way too. Dad drive us via Wray and along Mewith Lane and on to eventually reach the Keasden Road and here turn right for 3 miles to park in a pull-in below Bowland Knotts. Walked up the road to the brow going right on a grassy path with the wall on the left. We could already see the trig point! Climbed the ladderstile and followed a thin path crossing a broken wall and so to the trig point commanding again a wide open view. After our picture walked to another ladderstile and on a rough path to reach the road again. Made it a bit of a circular walk. Met here a couple the only other walkers we had seen all day! So now to Elaine's and we got to go in too. Dad had tea, chocolate caramel shortbread and scone with butter and jam. Well he deserved it! Good day!!
7th June 2015 -Clougha Pike & Grit Fell from Birk Bank
So continuing our exploration of Bowland, it was decided to tick off for us all, the fells closest to home and in fact in view from the dormer! The start point was Birk Bank car park on Rigg Lane in Quernmore. It was already busy when we arrived around 09:45 and full when we got back. So walked back along Rigg Lane to the junction and on a little further until just after the first bungalow went through the gate left at the footpath sign. Climbed the field to a waymarked gate into the farmyard. Continued through to another gate onto a walled green lane that led to a junction with a metalled lane. Here walked the lane left to after a while keep left at the fork over the cattle grid (gate avoiding this provided too) into woodland. Passed house and bungalows and then swung right with the lane to Rowton Brook Farm. Walked through and on the track passing through a gate and then right over the beck to then swing left. Now with Rowton Brook to the left the track heads on towards Clougha. Through the left of two adjacent gates then two more gates (ignore the waymark on next gate that points sharp left!). Beyond the grassy track bears left crossing some boggy areas and then over Rowton Brook towards the rock rise of Clougha Pike a clear path ascending left across this to the summit trig point and shelter. Here we met a man from Preston and Dad chatted for quite a while about walking and the Lakeland Fells. He asked if we had done the Wainwrights, and told us he had about 60 to do. Asked what was our favourite. Very hard to pin down, but Dad said we liked the Langdales, those in Borrowdale, Coledale & Newlands. He was amused by us lads and took Dad's picture with us and Dad then took his. Superb views over Morecambe Bay from here and on the ascent looking back. Sadly it was cloudier than forecast and the views were rather hazy today. So now we struck east on a clear rather rocky path and over boggy sections. Climbed the stile in a fence and in the next fence, walking beside this to a ladderstile in a corner, and so the short way to the substantial cairn that is considered the summit of the otherwise flat expanse of Grit Fell. After our picture we just walked the heathery path to reach a surfaced track maintained for the grouse shoots. Now going left followed this for about 2 miles or so the path meandering and dipping and climbing. Views to Ingleborough but hazy. View of Whit Fell behind the wind farm on Caton Moor another summit waiting to be bagged. Found the narrow trod going left over the heather to get to the ladderstile in the wall that descends Clougha. Looking at the steep up and down of Windy Clough, our diversion via Grit Fell had made for easier walking. Over the stile followed the narrow path that descended and crossed to a square tower above the Thirlmere Aqueduct. Here as instructed walked north to descend a narrow rocky path that after a little way came to a slightly better path where we went left continue the descent. This eventually widened to a grassy track and came to a junction by a rocky outcrop. Here went left to follow the grassy track down to the car park. Nice walk. Dad had been to both summits in the past, but we all bagged Clougha Pike and Allen, Grizzly, Little Eric and I bagged Grit Fell.
30th May 2015 -Waddington Fell, Beacon Hill & Easington Fell
A dry day with some sun, but windy as it seems to be perennially at present. Parked at the top of the Newton to Waddington road at the area on the left. Took the grassy track opposite to climb up to and round the huge Waddington Fell Quarry, following the fence protecting us from the sheer drop. Kept on with the fence after the quarry for a short way to reach the trig point sitting on top for our picture. Wide open views all round and we picked out Fair Snape Fell & Parlick. Returned same way then walked right along the road for a little way to climb the stile and follow the signed track across Tagglesmire passing through a gate and on to an old gateway. Passed through above an angled wall to reach the woodland and a stony and grassy track. Went right by the wood through two gates after which the track was surfaced. Continued to the end of the wood where a seat provided a place to have a sandwich. Then on along the track to a road. Walked on to a corner taking a path left that climbed through woods. At a junction went left and followed the track to a junction started on ahead but Dad suddenly realised this was the path for later so we back-tracked, but at first a little too far. Eventually found the path right called gloriously Shivering Ginnel! This was boggy in places as it climbed gently crossing two stiles and then right through a gate and the short way to the trig point on Beacon Hill. A superb viewpoint in all directions! The Yorkshire Fells, Pendle Hill, Clitheroe, and west to the coast. Returned the same way then took the waymarked track with woods to the left and then on both sides to eventually come to a gate on to open fell. A clear path led by the wall on right to the end of woodland where we went right by the woods to their end again. Now climbing two fences to get to open fell it was just a little way half right to the cairn on Easington Fell our final summit today. Now followed the wall down to join a grassy track and go right to the road and left uphill to the car. Another good day and that';s another 3 Bowland Fells done.
25th May 2015 - Burn Moor Fell, Catlow Hill & White Hill from Stairend Bridge
So our next expedition on our quest to climb the Bowland Fells and another completely new area to us all. In all over 14 miles and at least half on trackless moor & bog and Tetley remarked, "this reminds me of many walks with Uncle Bob in Yorkshire." This is a hard walk, and anyone attempting this should not underestimate the effort required. The day was mostly cloudy with some light drizzle at times and windy. Our start was at Stairend Bridge reached along a narrow road from Wray that Dad had never been along before. Crossed the bridge and then took the signed gate left and up the field, where the sheep and lambs came to say hello to Shaun! In the next field headed left of the large barn to take a gate at it left side and on the track through the few houses at Ivah -farmhouse dated 1755- to a road. Left then immediately right along the road signed Slaidburn that was followed uphill to a t-junction. Went left and followed the lane that eventually descends through a gate and to cross the Croasdale Beck. Walked on uphill to pass the buildings of Ringstones. Beyond the surfaced track on the right to Green Hall and opposite the access to Ringstones climbed a wall stile on the right. Walked up the field with the fence to the right and then head towards Lanshaw Farm straight ahead. Now by a wall this was followed for 100 yards to take a gate right in it then go left by the wall. At the corner crossed the wall stile ahead and followed the wall on the left to Lanshaw. Crossed the drive to the left end of the barn conversion and then through a gate to pass left of the farmhouse to a waymarked gate. After this turned right and went on through two more gates to a wooden gate into moorland. Here turned left to follow the wall until it bent away then making for a nearby wooden post on the Bentham-Slaidburn road. Paused here to ring Uncle Brian as he had been asleep when we left. Now straight across on Petersbottom Lane a track that ultimately leads to Croasdale Grains. After half a mile went left at the junction towards a shooting box. After another 250 yards took the grassy vehicle track left for 150 yards until reaching a shooting butt on the right. Here we went right and followed the line of butts (12) uphill. Reaching the last walked the 100 yards to the fence to turn right by it and climb to the summit of Burn Moor, having shortly before passed the boundary stone known as the Standard of Burn. Necessary to cross the fence to the trig point. We sat on top for our photo despite the wind. Recrossed the fence and followed it over the rough trackless moor, our thoughts being for Dad poor knees! After about 2 miles we were very glad to reach the section of wall and level ground at Raven's Castle. Climbed the stile left in the fence and followed the one from the wall uphill to the unmarked flat top of Catlow Fell. Crossed the fence as the spot height is shown as on the other side. We sat on the heather for our picture at what in our opinion was the summit? Retraced to Raven's Castle and followed the wall and soon fence down and up to the road at Cross of Greet, of which just the large base stone remains. Had a bite to eat here. Dad passed the time of day with two cyclists who commented on us. So now through the gate opposite to walk more rough and even boggier terrain by a fence to pass a kissing gate in it and shortly reach another in a cross fence. So now for White Hill, a mile uphill slog by the fence. More rough ground although a path is developing, but at times detours were necessary to avoid dangerous bog. Thank goodness Dad is so experienced. Finally the trig point came into view the fence bending away left, and there was just the last bit of very rough ground to reach it. Too windy, we had to sit at the base for the picture. Here too is one of the old survey towers built for the Haweswater Aqueduct. So back down to the kissing gate, Dad doing this in about half the time it took to climb. Then through the gate we went left by the fence soon to come by Middle Gill that was followed all the way down to the road. More hard going as again no paths. "Oh joy", cried Dad as we finally left the moors behind. At the road went left to its end at Botton Head Farm, where in the yard immediately went right as directed between walls to a gate into pasture. Followed the vehicle track over two fields. At the far corner of the second turned left though a gate and down the stony track to Botton Bridge (3ton weight limit), then up the zig zags of the track beyond through a gate to a road at a bend. Walked ahead for 300 yards to go right down the drive to Lower Thrushgill, a small community of houses. At these it was left through a gate then to the left of the white house another gate into the garden then through a gate right on to a grassy path that led to a stile into the field. The owners of the house (Ian and Judy) were having tea outside and Dad commented on their nice garden. They invited Dad to have a cup of tea and biscuit, which he accepted and spent a very happy 20 mins or so chatting to them about the countryside, and of course we got introduced too. So very kind of them! We are among the very few walkers who have come through here recently. So taking our leave it was over the stile into the field and to another stile and then another with a small footbridge beyond. Now followed the fence to a wall stile then to the left of a lone ash tree and to the far distant corner of the field. Here passed left of an isolated oak tree and down the steep bank to pass the river bend and to a gate onto the road at Stairend Bridge. Wow, what a walk and must say we were all very glad to get back to the car. However Dad was pleased that he still have the stamina for such terrain!!
8th May 2015 - Fair Snape Fell & Parlick from Startifants Lane
Today we realised a long held desire to climb Fair Snape Fell. At a sharp corner on Startifants Lane to a corner on the left there was verge parking. Our route was right on the tarmac drive to Wolfen Hall. At the second cattle grid climbed the waymarked stile on the right to walk ahead over pasture so avoiding the hall. Crossed a tarmac track to a stile by a gate on the left, then in a short way right over a stile, then along by the fence on the left and over a footbridge. On then to a stile by a gate after which the footpath descended right into a small valley of the Chipping Brook. Crossed the footbridge then climbed by the fence on the left to a stile at the top of the slope. Continued ahead by the fence on the left to a stile by the next gate. Now half right over muddy pasture guided by white topped posts to cross a tiny footbridge then stile in the fence, the path then being through the trees by the fence on the left to a stile and steps down to the access to Saddle End Farm. Went left through the farmyard via two gates (spring bolt on second fell out and Dad could not get it back so had to wedge and leave the spring on the wall). Now we kept left by the wall and through a kissing gate then to another gate and then another kissing gate and along a grassy path. Here we met the farmer of Saddle End with his dog, so we stopped and Dad explained about the bolt. He had guessed before he said it all and told Dad not to worry. Then they chatted and Dad commented on the two Herdwicks and lamb. He said he had got them for his wife. Had had and old ewe for a while but this now gone so these were a replacement. First year ewes so it was a surprise one had a lamb but it was being looked after OK. Talked about farming and how hard it is and the costs such as nearly £1000 for the tags for the sheep! So now walked on up to a kissing gate in the wall and then just followed the grassy cart track ever on up Saddle Fell, keeping left at junctions. As the gradient eased the path came near to a fence and so to a kissing gate in it. Now followed what looked like a fairly recently made soil and rock path over the heather moor eventually to a kissing gate in the fence. The summit of Fair Snape Fell was now a little way right reached by a grassy path then stone slabs over the bog and to a kissing gate in the fence to get to the cairn. We were quickly out for our picture. Returning to the kissing gate at the end of the made track, Dad now picked his way carefully across to a stile. Dad phoned Uncle Brian who told him the news that the Conservative had won and overall majority in the election and that they had held on to the Morecambe seat with an increased majority! Yippee!!! After the stile the path suddenly became very boggy, but Dad spotted that if we crossed a little right we would gain a good path the the cairn shelter and trig point on Fair Snape Fell, where we sat on top for our picture. Chatted to a man here and also a couple who were doing the same walk as us, even to getting it off the Internet! We had lunch here sitting in the shelter. Then took the clear path across to a kissing gate and on to come by the wall and walk what is described as the best mile in Lancashire to Parlick. Truly wonderful views if sadly rather hazy today. Dad talked at times to the couple when they stopped and we caught them up. And on the last section up to Parlick we walked together. Took lads by the shelter at summit, then headed down on a clear path that eventually came to a gate by the house called Fell Foot and just then a short walk to the car. Good day and we finished and got home before the rains came. A little while ago Dad had printed off a listing to the Bowland Fells and South Pennines. We realised that we could just do the former and Dad readily agreed when we suggested this. So the Bowland Fell challenge was born.
6th January 2015 - Far Arnside, Arnside Tower, Arnside Knott & Redhills
Although not in the Forest of Bowland, Arnside Knott was included in the listing we had to climb, so it was nice that this has had already been done. Walking with Uncle Eric, Dad suggested this walk as the weather was inclement until 11:00 and conditions would have been worse longer in the Lakes. Met him at Arnside parking on the promenade beyond the Albion. Although the rain had mostly stopped as we set off there were a few light showers and a strong cold wind too. Heading south-west walked the concrete ramp by the shore, and on the beach/rocks too as necessary to New Barns bay. The tide was coming in fast nearing flood, and showed clearly how dangerous this is here and how people get into trouble. At New Barns rounded the inner side of the bay passing the buildings and taking the shore path with Firth Wood to the right towards Blackstone Point. Passed the cliff path over the point and continued on the shore, but by now it was nearly high tide, and we were not surprised to our way blocked. So retraced and took the cliff path bringing us to White Creek. Here walked the edge of the pebble beach and at its end took a path climbing left up onto the cliffs again. Shortly this came into the open out of the woods, and here were two seats with dedications, one to a lady who had lived to be 100! It would have been nice to sit here and look at the lovely view of the bay and Grange had the day been warmer and less windy! The path climbed to join another where we went right on the cliff top path from Arnside Point to Park Point. It was named the PCTTE path as it was at times 'perilously close to the edge'. Lovely seeing the tide coming in and we thought how Uncle Brian would have liked that too, but not the path by the cliff edge. Beyond Park Point the path climbed through the woods to another path where right we then walked through the hidden and huge caravan park. Well there was a number 296 on one! This then led through the cottages of Far Arnside to the main road. Crossed, and through the kissing gate and over two fields to Holgates Caravan Park. Followed the clear waymarks and signposts to take the tarmac drive and then leave this and follow a waymark along a rough track to a gate. The ruin of Arnside Tower loomed ahead and we walked to this. After taking a picture went left by the wall and down to and through Tower Farm and along its access to the road again. Arnside Knott towered above and we crossed the road to take a wide track in the woods going left and climbing. After a while took the gate right and followed the path up the hill to reach the ridge with a superb view over the estuary and of Whitbarrow Scar. Here was the famous twisted tree. Followed right then as we neared the brow struck off right again and soon to the trig point at the summit. Dad said he thought it was the very first time he had actually been to the summit of the Knott, so a first for us too! Returned to the main path and going a short way right we then went through the gate in the wall left to descend to open ground of Red Hills to a gate in the right hand wall. Walked through the woods descending to come to a wide path where it was left to the houses on Redhills Road that was followed as it looped right to another road. Here it was right to the main road (Silverdale Road) and so down to the start. A grand day and while some of my pals had done parts of this walk before it was totally new to me.