Out On Sunday

Sunday 21 August - Ramsbottom to Rawtenstall

2011-08-17T16:21:00.001-07:00

Next Sundays walk will be a pleasent 4 - 5 mile walk along the River Irwell from Ramsbottom to Rawtenstall across fields and woodland led by David and I. It also includes one of the biggest outdoor photograph frames your ever likley to see.

It is an easy walk mostly on flat ground but boots advised as it could be muddy.

Meet at 12.30 at Ramsbottom railway station (outside the ticket office). At the end of the walk at Rawtenstall we will take the train back to Ramsbottom (either 2.50 or 3.40 depending on arrival time in Rawtenstall)

There is a cafe in Irwell Vale church about half way along which serves coffee and scones/cakes but feel free to bring sandwiches.

The cost of the train ticket is £4.60 or £3.10 for concessions.

To get to Ramsbottom, take the M66 north and come off at Junction 1. There is parking next to the station or on the local side streets.

Hope to see you there - call on 07541162015 on the day if you need to (Davids mobile)

Sunday 14th August - Flash

2011-08-12T09:10:00.001-07:00

The walk for Sunday 14 August is as follows

Meet in the village of Flash for 12:30 start.

Flash is just off the A53 Buxton to Leek Road.

There is no parking in the village but there should be enough space on the street or nearby lanes.

Map ExploreOL 24 White Peak

SK 026672

My mobile is 07734 747266

6 miles with some ascent and descent - some lane walking - other parts could be a bit muddy if it has been raining. Flash is said to be the highest village in England.

Formerly the meeting place for rogues, vagabonds, counterfeiters and bare knuckle fighters.

There is a pub at Flash Bar, but please bring your own refreshments.

Paul

Sunday 7 August. Huddersfield Canal/Saddleworth Valley

2011-08-02T12:59:00.001-07:00

This is a very easy, flat,7/ 8 mile walk along the Huddersfield Narrow Canal through the picturesque Saddleworth Valley from Mossley to the start of the Stanedge Tunnel at Diggle and back to Greenfield, where we will catch the train back to Mossley. Simple walking boots or trainers will be fine. There will be a stop for lunch in the pretty village of Uppermill-bring your own or buy it in the village. Meet for 12.15 by the River Tame bridge on Egmont St in Mossley. This can be reached by taking the M60 to Ashton-U-Lyne (junct 23). Follow signs to Town Centre/Stalybridge (A635). At the Town Hall roundabout take the A635 towards Stalybridge. Continue on this road for 2/3 miles before turning right onto Egmont St in Mossley. Go past Mossley Boys Football ground and Kingdom Hall private car park (on the right), and park on the left just before the River Tame. Alternatively, you can catch the 11.43 Huddersfield train from Manchester Victoria which arrives in Mossley at 12.02, and walk from the station to Egmont St (5/10 mins.). Trains from Greenfield run once an hour at 58 mins to the hour, so we would hope to catch the 15.58 back to Mossley (approx £2). Any problems on the day, please contact me on 07708152106. I look forward to seeing you on the walk. Patrick

Pictures from Knott End Walk 22/5/11

2011-06-08T10:39:00.000-07:00

2011-06-08T10:35:00.000-07:00

Hello Sailor! 14 Nov 2010 Tatton Park

Photos from Frodsham walk 10 April

2011-06-08T10:32:00.000-07:00

Snowden Railway option for weekend away 17/19th Jun Walking Weekend Betws Y Coed

2011-06-08T10:28:00.000-07:00

Patrick has also sent some info about the Snowden Railway in case anyone is interested in this as an option to one of the organised walks from Betws Y Coed for the weekend away on 17-19 June..

Hi Derek, some people on the walk w/end have expressed an interest in taking the train to Snowdon, and I wondered if you wanted to forward some details: 45 mins drive from Betws y Coed to Llanberis Station (pay and display) from where the train departs. Trains every 30 mins after 9 a.m. costs £19 single to the summit (can walk back but have no routemap-would take about 2 hours to descend on the easier route) and £25 return. Return journey takes 2 and a half hours with a half hour stop at the new leisure complex at the summit. Phone booking recommended (08444938120-£3.50 admin charge!!), but can't book by phone on the day of travel-just have to turn up and pay.

Sunday 12 June Goyt Valley and Errwood Hall

2011-06-08T10:27:00.001-07:00

This Sundays walk which David and I will be leading is a pleasent 6 miles which involves some gradual uphill incline as well as flat walking across moorland and woodland. Boots recommended. We stop at Errwood Hall (ruin) for lunch, please bring sandwiches - there is nowehere to buy any refreshments. There is also the opportunity to visit a small Victorian Shrine dedicated to the former governess of the house.

From Macclesfield, take A537 towards Buxton. After about 5 miles (before the Cat and Fiddle pub) there is a turning off to the left marked Goyt Valley. Follow this for about 3 miles, past Lamaload resorvoir. When you get to a fork in the road, bear to the right. After about another mile the car park (Pym's Chair) on the left is clearly marked. http://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/696086 map ref 996767

Meet at 12.30.

Look forward to seeing you there - please call on Davids number 07541162015 if you have any problems.

Thanks

Derek

Sunday 22nd May The Brine fields of Knott End & surrounds

2011-05-02T12:51:00.000-07:00

Here are the details for my walk on May 22nd. Knott End is a mixture of modest resort and commuter village as it is close to Blackpool, Fleetwood & Lancaster. There are fabulous views across the bay to the South Lakes. The walk takes in cross country parts, the brine fields, the estuary of the River Wyre, the local golf course and more. It is an easy 6 mile ramble and we will stop about 3/4 the way round at a cafe at the 10th hole of the golf course which offers sandwiches, snacks and drinks at very reasonable prices. If you want to bring your own sandwiches that is ok too of course! There is a pub at the end if anyone wants to go for a pint and they do traditional English cuisine.

We will set off from the car park as described below at 1.00pm, please allow ample time to get there as there is a Sunday car boot sale every week that could delay you en route. Also dress for it to be muddy in places if the dry spell turns rainy!

If anyone needs to call me they can get me on 07970 508420

Directions:

To get to Knott End head as though you were coming to Blackpool up the M55, when you get to the first exit for Kirkham and Fleetwood take this and head towards Fleetwood. The A585 road carries on till you meet a T junction with traffic lights; here you take a left and carry on in the direction of Fleetwood. About 1 mile up the road you come to a 5 way junction with a garage on the opposite side over the lights. The road to take here is again towards Fleetwood. About 1.5 miles along this road you will come to a set of traffic lights with signs for Preesall and Pilling, take a right here and follow this route to the B5270 to Knott End. Follow this road all the way into Knott End until you can't go any further. You'll have passed The Bourne Arms on the right and just before the road finishes there will be a left turn take that and turn right into the free car park in front of the Knott End Golf club building. There are toilets behind the cafe adjacent to the car park if required. FY6 0EA is the postcode for the café adjacent to the car park.

Cheers,

Cliff

Sunday 17 April - Macclesfield Forest and Shutlingsloe

2011-04-13T05:57:00.000-07:00

This Sundays walk will be a pleasent 5-6 mile walk through Macclesfield Forest and a climb to a trig point, Shutlingsloe for some good views over the Peak District and Cheshire countryside.

There is a mobile cafe at the forest and a pub possibly serving meals at the end of the walk (depending upon when we reach the end). However you may wish to bring sandwiches.

It will be led by David and myself.

Meet at 12.30 at Vicarage Quarry car park. From Macclesfield take the A537 towards Buxton (Cat and Fiddle Road). After approx 7 miles there is a turning on the right (B road) going towards Wildboarclough. (This is directly opposite the turning for the Goyt Valley)

After about 100 yds take the right hand fork and drive south towards 'Bottom of the Oven' where there is a pub, The Stanley Arms (link http://www.stanleyarms.com/index.htm) SK11 0AR

Turn right here along the Cheshire Cycleway towards Wildboarclough (the road splits after a few yards but keep left) and the Vicarage Quarry carpark is approx a mile on the right hand side. The grid reference is SJ 984705 on the outdoor leisure OS map 24 for The White Peak.

If there are any problems please call:

Davids mobile - 07541162015

Hope you can join us.

Derek

Pictures from Sunday 13 March - Turton and Entwistle Reservoir

2011-04-12T08:47:00.000-07:00

Sandstone Trail and Helsby Hill – Sunday 10 April

2011-04-06T01:05:00.000-07:00

Hi Derek, here are the details for my walk next Sunday.

Sandstone Trail and Helsby Hill – Sunday 10 April. Meet at 12.45pm.

This is a circular walk starting at Beacon Hill near Frodsham Golf Course, through woodlands, red sandstone crags and offering spectacular views of the Mersey Estuary.

It is a bit longer than usual at 9 miles, along a mix of easy and rough paths, some steep climbs and descents too. The paths are rocky in places and could be muddy if its been wet. I would recommend boots/strong footwear. There are no teashops or pubs on the walk so please bring your own snacks etc. We should finish the walk at about 5pm including stops for lunch and rest breaks.

There are a couple of nice country pubs we can call at after the walk for those who still have the energy to lift a glass!

Meeting Point

Beacon Hill Car Park, Frodsham. Grid ref SJ 518 766. The nearest post code I could find is for the golf club - WA6 6HE – bear in mind that the Beacon Hill car park is slightly further on than the turn for the golf club. http://maps.google.co.uk/ type in Frodsham Golf Club.

Directions

Frodsham is on the A56 (between Warrington and Chester) just off the M56. Travelling from the M56, drive into Frodsham. At the first set of traffic lights/Bears Paw Pub, turn left into Church Street – this is the B5152 (which is also signposted for the train station). Follow the road uphill for about 2mins -Church St becomes Red Lane then Vicarge Lane. Just after the zebra crossing, turn right into Manley Road – also sign-posted for the Hill Top Hotel and Conference Centre.

Continue straight ahead uphill, for approx 2mins and as the road bears to the left, turn right into Simons Lane – also sign-posted to Frodsham Golf Club. Drive past the turn off for the Golf Club (on the left) and approx 100 yds further on look out for the gate to the Beacon Hill car park on the right (look for the telecommunications tower on the right.)

Parking

The car park is free but only enough space for about 6-8 cars. There is additional parking further along Simons Lane (about another 300yds) at the Frodsham War Memorial. Go past the Hill Top Hotel and Conference Centre complex (its big!) and park up in front of the iron gates/railings to the Memorial. Its free parking and enough space for about 8 cars. However, you'll need to walk back to the Beacon Hill Car park as we'll be starting the walk from here.

Any problems or queries phone me on my mobile 07929 829 284.

If anyone would like a lift from Prestwich – I may have room in my car. Similarly, if anyone travelling by train wants a lift from Frodsham train station please let me know.

I look forward to seeing you on Sunday - its a lovely walk.

David.

Quarry Bank Mill Estate and Styal Country Park 27/03/11

2011-03-25T13:51:00.001-07:00

STYAL

Description

A five mile walk through the National Trust’s Quarry Bank Mill Estate and Styal Country Park. It starts in Styal village then over fields to the River Bollin. After a lunch stop at the Mill the walk continues through Styal Woods and returns via the perimeter of Manchester Airport and along the Old Altrincham Road which has some of the original medieval buildings of Styal .

The walk follows established footpaths but they may be muddy in parts following wet weather. Although most of it is quite flat there are several steep but stepped ascents and descents in the woods. The end of the walk is along a lane part of which is closed to traffic.

There is an NT teashop and picnic area at the Mill and a pub at the end.

Joining Directions

From Heald Green take the B5166 in the direction of Wilmslow. After 1.5 miles turn right into Altrincham Rd - signposted ‘Styal’. (From Wilmslow turn left into Altrincham Rd one mile after the junction of the B5166 and B5358). Passing the Ship Inn on the right, there is a free National Trust car park on the left after 200 yards. There is also road side parking. For Sat Nav the postcode is SK9 4JE.

By public transport take the train to Manchester Airport then the 200 bus service to Styal Village (the stop before Quarry Bank Mill). There is a limited rail service from Manchester Piccadilly to Styal.

Meet in the NT car park at 12.00 noon. Contact on the day 07923608881

Phil & Phil

WEEKEND AWAY JUNE 17 - 19 Betws-y-Coed in North Wales

2011-03-09T04:15:00.000-08:00

Walking Weekend - 17 - 19 June

This years OOS weekend away will be in Betws-y-Coed in North Wales, close to Snowdonia National Park. Its a picturesque market town on a river with some good pubs and lots of walking opportunities.

Some of us have booked into the Dragon Restaurant B&B (link - http://www.laterooms.com/en/p2805/hotel-reviews/195038_dragon-restaurant-and-b-nb-betws-y-coed.aspx

There are also a list of places at http://www.betws-y-coed.co.uk/accommodation/index.html?categoryname=accommodation&templatelistparent=searchaccom_li_par.html&templatelistitem=searchaccom_li.html&requiredfield=town&web4usearch=1&town=Betws-y-Coed&search=Search

As with previous years, please make your own arrangements for accommodation and we will meet at one of the pubs on the Friday evening and I will have a look at some walks for the Saturday and Sunday.

I'll email more details nearer to the date.

Cheers

Derek

Sunday 13 March - Turton and Entwistle Reservoir

2011-03-09T04:13:00.000-08:00

The walk is approximately 8 KM ( 5 Miles ) around the two reservoirs. 4 hours depending on stops.

Gentle walk with only three inclines of approx’ 200 yards each. It can be very muddy in places, but the majority is good paths on the level. There is a small stretch on a minor road, to gain access to the path once again. Depending on the weather, the walk can be shortened if it is pouring down. Hopefully that will not be the case; ever the optimist.

Walking boots are recommended, with Outdoor protective clothing from the cold and rain. A hat and scarf would be useful as the wind coming off the reservoir on the eastern end can be very cold at times.

On route there is an Inn but it is too soon into the walk to stop for a meal, so please bring a packed lunch and a flask, water etc. At the end of the walk group members can return to the Strawbury Duck for a drink if they wish by a shorter route. It tends to be packed out on Sundays.

To view the area with a little history of the Reservoirs > http://en.wikipeda.org/wiki/Turton_and_Entwistle_Reservoir

Directions to the start point:

Batridge Road Car park. There is a fee depending on which car park you use of £1.30 for over two hours. (I have never know this to be working!). Meet at 12.30pm.
There are two car parks, which the routes will explain.

Post Code for Sat Nav The only one I could get was   BL7 0’’

Grid Ref 723174 West Pennine Moors – Blackburn, Darwin & Accrington. OS. Explorer Map No 287

Route 1:

The easiest way to find the reservoirs and car park is from the A666 Blackburn/Bolton Road. From Bolton > Take the A666 to Blackburn. Follow the signs to Blackburn.Once you have come out of the built up Bolton Area, follow this road for approx’ 3miles. You will pass signs for West Pennine Moor, Lancashire Red Rose County.A further sign for a “Pit Stop” (a refreshment wagon facility) will indicate that you will be taking the next turning on your right after less than 1 mile. Take the next right to Chapletown B6391, also signed Turton Tower. ( Green Arms Road ) Follow this road for approx’ 2 miles. You will pass Blackburn Community Memorial Forest on the left, and you will see the reservoir.Take the first or Second turning on your left to the Car parks. I will be down by the reservoir itself on the Weir, which divides the two reservoirs, from 12 noon.

Route 2:

From M65 Junction 4. Leave the motorway at Junction 4, head towards Blackburn and Darwin. Keep in the left hand lane after leaving the motorway roundabout.Turn left at the traffic lights towards Darwin. A666. Drive through Darwin (3miles) . Continue along the A666 until you leave the built up area. Towards Bolton A666. After 1 mile take the left turning to Chapel Town, also signed Turton Tower. B6391 (Green Arms Road) Follow the instruction from Route 1 at this point.

By Train:

There is an unmanned Request Rail Service at Entwistle Railway Station,which is very near the start of the walk.

Telephone me if there are any problems    07724921268

Hope to see you all there. Pray for a little sun!!
Cheers Jeff

Sunday 27 February Ashursts Beacon

2011-02-07T11:32:00.001-08:00

Name of Walk: Ashursts Beacon (locally known as the pimpel)

Times:
Start at 12.30pm prompt please
Finish at 3.30pm ish

How to get there: From junction 27 M6 - take A5209 to Parbold - at Parbold keep on the A5209 and 600m after the canal turn left onto Higher Lane.
After 2km this road will swing left onto Beacon Lane. Beacon Country Park is almost 2km further on.

Map: OS OL285 Southport & Formby

Car parking: Beacon Country Park Visitors Centre car park is shared Beacon Golf Club - please park at far end of car park away from entrance near toilets and rangers cabin.

Brief description of walk: This is a short circular walk approx 4 miles - taking in some lovely scenery along walk routes through fields on paths and woodland with very little on road walking. Taking into consideration the time of year it will be muddy and slippery in places, please come prepared with your walking boots and wet gear, hopefully you will not need it.
I recommend you take a packed lunch/refreshments with you as we will stop after 2 hours or so at the beacon (after a sharp ascent) to take in the views and have a well desrved break. From here it will only take us half an hour to get back to our base. (please don't be put off by the sharp ascent to Ashursts Beacon its not a long one say 5 mins - you can do it!)

Pubs:
There are two pubs close by at the end of the walk if anyone is up for a pint - details on the day.

Contact: 07734857841 - Peter

February 13th - Haigh Country Park, Wigan

2011-02-07T11:31:00.001-08:00

This is an easy 4 mile walk along a section of the Leeds-Liverpool Canal and around part of Haigh Country Park. It may be muddy in places, so boots are recommended. There is a teashop in the Park, where drinks and snacks can be purchased, or you can bring your own lunch.

To get to where the walk starts, take the M61 to junction 6, take the exit onto the A6027 towards Wigan, 1st exit at the roundabout onto the A6, and at the lights turn right onto Dicconson Lane (B5239). Keep on the B5239 crossing a number of roundabouts, heading into the village of Haigh (Haigh Rd); DON'T go towards Wigan centre/Pier. Follow this road through Haigh, for a couple of miles, ignoring any signs for Haigh Country Park. When you reach a narrow bridge with traffic lights turn immediate left after the bridge and park either by the canal side or in the Bridge 63 car park (a boarded up restaurant). If coming on the M6, leave at J27, head for Standish on the A5106, then take the B5239 at the roundabout signposted Haigh Hall (Red Rock Lane). The meeting point is about 1/2 mile up the hill on your right, immediately before the bridge. OS Explorer 276, Bolton, Wigan and Warrington.

Meet at 1pm. Any problems or delays, contact me on 07708152106. I look forward to seeing you there. Patrick

Sunday 17 October - Ramsbottom to Rawtentsall and returning by train

2010-10-13T05:28:00.001-07:00

Next Sundays walk will be one of the perenial favourites, led by myself and David, a pleasent 4 - 5 mile walk along the River Irwell from Ramsbottom to Rawtenstall across fields and woodland. It also includes one of the biggest outdoor photograph frames your ever likley to see.

It is an easy walk mostly on flat ground but boots advised as it could be muddy.

Meet at 12.30 at Ramsbottom railway station (outside the ticket office). At the end of the walk at Rawtenstall we will take the train back to Ramsbottom (either 3.25 or 4.15 depending on arrival time in Rawtenstall)

Its a weekend for diesal enthusiasts on Sunday so Im assuming we'll be travelling back on diesal as opposed to steam.

There is a cafe in Irwell Vale church about half way along which serves coffee and hopefully scones/cakes but feel free to bring sandwiches.

The cost of the train ticket is £4.60 or £3.00 for concessions.

To get to Ramsbottom, take the M66 north and come off at Junction 1. There is parking next to the station or on the local side streets.

Hope to see you there - call on 07541162015 on the day if you need to (Davids mobile)

Derek and David

September 5th Goyt Valley

2010-09-04T02:09:00.001-07:00

September 5^th will be a fairly short walk of 5 or 6 miles in the Goyt Valley, starting just beyond Whaley Bridge and going around Fernilee Reservoir.

The meeting point is a sizeable lay-by a less than half a mile south of Whaley Bridge. Travelling from Manchester/Stockport follow the A6 through High Lane and Disley. After passing through Furness Vale there is a roundabout; do NOT take the first exit onto the Chapel-en-le-Frith by-pass; carry on to the next exit and into Whaley Bridge. Passing through Whaley Bridge, pick up the A5004 (Long Hill) towards Buxton.

Shortly after leaving Whaley Bridge there is a large lay-by on the right as the road bends. This is the meeting point, where there should be sufficient parking space. Meet at 12.30pm.

The first and last parts of the walk are through fields that may be damp or muddy. Much of the walk is along easy paths, with just one or two steeper sections.

There are no pubs or cafes en route so a packed lunch is recommended. But there are a number of pubs around Disley, that should provide a suitable stopping-off point afterwards.

Any problems, my number is 07764 465710.

Richard

Sunday 8 August - Littleborough/Todmorden and the Rochdale Canal

2010-08-03T05:20:00.000-07:00

This Sundays walk will be in the Littleborough/Todmorden area and will be led by Sid and Arthur

Hi everyone
This is an easy going 5 mile walk from Littleborough to Todmorden following the route of the Rochdale Canal through Summit and Walsden. We will follow the canal along the tow path which rises through a series of locks to the village of Summit and then descends down to Todmorden, with excellent views of the valley, railway and industrial heritage of the area. A good resting place is at the Summit pub where Sunday lunch should be available and a good space to eat sandwiches by one of the highest locks in the country at 600ft. The journey back to Littleborough will be a short train ride from Todmorden station, trains leaving at five minutes to the hour. The fare is £2.90

Please meet at Littleborough Station car park at 12.30pm (not the supermarket car park),where parking is free on a Sunday.

Directions from the M62 are as follows: Turn off at junction 21 and take the first left onto the the A640 towards Milnrow. After passing the station on the right take the next right turning onto the B6225, and follow the road through Smithy Bridge to Littleborough. Turn left at the junction with the A58 and Railway St is second on the left, from where you can find the station car park. For SatNav users the postcode is OL15 8AF.

Mobile - 07799117674

Hope to see you there
Arthur and Sid

Middlewood Way - Sunday 1 August

2010-07-26T11:59:00.001-07:00

This is a six mile walk around the Marple area.
It begins along the Middlewood Way, then crosses fields and the Macclesfield Canal to join Marple Ridge. From the Ridge there are fine views of both the Pennines and the Cheshire Plain. We will stop for lunch (about 2.00pm) at a pub along the way but food service could be slow so you may wish to bring sandwiches. The walk continues down to and along the Peak Forest Canal. The final section is through the centre of Marple back to the starting point, where there is another pub (but no food after 4.00pm).

Meeting Point and Time
Car park at Rose Hill rail station in Marple

This car park is free of charge and there are toilets nearby.
Meet for a 12.30 start.

DirectionsBy car from M60 roundabout for Stockport East take the A626 towards Marple. After about 4 miles and just before the Railway pub, turn right into Railway Road.

The station car park is on the left after the pub car park

For Sat Nav the postcode is SK6 6HU.
By public transport there is a bus service from Stockport.
Contact on the day 07923608881

Phil & Phil

Hollingworth Country Park - Sunday 18 July

2010-07-12T12:00:00.000-07:00

Please see below details of this Sundays walk which will be led by Patrick

The next walk after this will be on Sunday 1 August as there is a train outing taking place on Saturday 24 July instead of the Sunday.

This Sunday's walk is approximately 6 miles around part of Hollingworth Country Park, Milnrow, Rochdale (OS Explorer OL21, GR 939153). It is a generally easy walk, but there are a couple of uphill sections, one of which leads to the corner of Blackstone Edge, a longer, steady climb, crossing a Roman road and offering tremendous views back towards Manchester. The latter section of the walk can be omitted if the group would prefer to add on a circular of Hollingworth Lake instead. The terrain is good, but there may be one or 2 muddy sections IF there is any substantial rain beforehand, so walking boots may be needed on the day (hopefully not!). There will be a stop en route to rest and allow people to eat a packed lunch. At the end of the walk there is a good cafe at the visitor centre and several cafes/shops/bars in and around the Lake.

Meet at 12.30 at the Visitor Centre. There is plenty of car parking, but you have to pay (about £2 for 4 hours).

To get to Hollingworth Lake, take the M62 to junction 21 (Milnrow), and follow signs for Milnrow, turning left at the A640 roundabout onto Elizabethan Way, where you will pick up brown tourist signs for Hollingworth Lake. Follow these signs all the way to the lake (B6225). Head for the Visitor Centre once you reach the lake (turn right by The Wine Press pub on the corner and 1st left towards the car park).

I look forward to seeing you there. If you have any problems with the directions or are delayed please ring me on 07708152106. Cheers. Patrick

Pictures from Knott End and the Brine Fields 11.07.10

2010-07-12T11:26:00.000-07:00

Just after the made our way from Knott End out into the surrounding countryside,

making our way through on of the local farms on our route.

Making our way away from the farm we were afforded this wonderful view

across wheat fields with the South Lakes in the background.

Making our way along the Wyre Way skirting the Brine Fields on the left

and the Wyre estuary flood plain on the right.

Getting to the end of the Wyre Way.

The majority of the group assembled at the end of the Wyre Way.

Break stop at Hole 10 on the Knott End golf course (1)

Break stop at Hole 10 on the Knott End golf course (2)

Hackensall Hall. This is an important historical site in the area. A large hoard of Roman coins were found near the hall. Later, the Vikings were active around the coast. The name Hackensall is derived from the Norse Viking name Hakon. Towards the end of the 11th century the hall was the seat of The Lord Manor Of Preesall, and served as a fort to resist further Norse incursions. The present hall was built around the 17th century, although the remains of a chapel of rather great antiquity have been found in the grounds.

Making our way from Hackensall Hall towards the last leg of the walk

across the Golf Course and back to Knott End Golf Course Club House.

The Brine fields of Knott End & surrounds Sunday 11th July

2010-06-27T09:27:00.000-07:00

Here are the details for my walk on July 11th. Knott End is a mixture of modest resort and commuter village as it is close to Blackpool, Fleetwood & Lancaster. There are fabulous views across the bay to the South Lakes. The walk takes in cross country parts, the Brine fields, the estuary of the River Wyre, the local golf course and more. It is an easy 6 mile ramble and we will stop about 3/4 the way round at a cafe at the 10th hole of the golf course which offers sandwiches, snacks and drinks at very reasonable prices. If you want to bring your own sandwiches that is ok too of course! There is a pub at the end if anyone wants to go for a pint and they do traditional English cuisine.

We will set off from the car park as described below at 1.00pm, please allow ample time to get there as there is a Sunday car boot sale every week that could delay you en route. Also dress for it to be muddy in places if the dry spell turns rainy!

If anyone needs to call me they can get me on 07970 508420 Cliff

Directions:

To get to Knott End head as though you were coming to Blackpool up the M55, when you get to the first exit for Kirkham and Fleetwood take this and head towards Fleetwood. The A585 road carries on till you meet a T junction with traffic lights; here you take a left and carry on in the direction of Fleetwood. About 1 mile up the road you come to a 5 way junction with a garage on the opposite side over the lights. The road to take here is again towards Fleetwood. About 1.5 miles along this road you will come to a set of traffic lights with signs for Preesall and Pilling, take a right here and follow this route to the B5270 to Knott End. Follow this road all the way into Knott End until you can't go any further. You'll have passed The Bourne Arms on the right and just before the road finishes there will be a left turn take that and turn right into the free car park in front of the Knott End Golf club building. There are toilets behind the cafe adjacent to the car park if required.

Sunday 27 June - Garstang area

2010-06-24T14:37:00.001-07:00

Meeting time for the walk will be 1pm.

The walk will commence in the centre of Garstang at the High Street Car Park, near the river. There is a fee for parking. There are two cafes - Booths and The Coffee Pot if you wish to eat beforehand or afterwards.

The walk will be along countryside field paths and the banks of the river Wyre and will be mainly flat terrain. It wil be approximately 4 -5 miles in length.

Garstang is located between Preston and Lancaster. J 32 for the M55. Come off at J1 and head north on the A6.

Rivington Pike - Sunday 4 July

2010-06-22T11:49:00.001-07:00

This is a steepish in parts 7/8 mile walk uphill at a leisurely pace to the summit of Rivington Pike (great views from the top). Stout shoes or walking boots are recommended because it can be muddy depending on weather conditions.

There are two watering holes on the route but you will probably wish to bring a packed lunch. A visit to the Pub on the way down near the walks end is on the cards for the alcoholics amongst us.

The walk starts at 12 noon from the car park.

Directions to the starting point are as follows: From the M61 Junction 6 take the A6027 past the Reebock stadium, take the left fork at the Beehive roundabout along the A673 signposted Horwich. Continue along this road passing the Fire Station on your left until you reach a mini-roundabout, go straight past and take the first right into Lever Park Avenue. Travel along this road which joins into Rivington Lane. The car park entrance, which is not obvious, is on the left just after the Rivington & Blackburn High School which is on the right but before the Rivington Park Independant School and Nursery.

For those with a sat nav the school's postcode is BL6 7RU.

In the event of difficulty Rod's mobile no. is 0780 663 1571.

Walk - Parbold & The Fairy Glen - 13th June

2010-05-31T03:05:00.000-07:00

Here are details for my walk Sunday 13th June.

Pictures of the some of the beautiful sights on the walk can be previews here

http://www.mozmorris.com/gallery/thumbnails.php?album=30

To get there is pretty simple. Come off the M6 at Junction 27 and take the A5209 towards Parbold. Continue on down this road for about 4 miles until you come to a single lane bridge with traffic lights. Cross the bridge and then take the next right turn into Parbold village. Cross over the railway crossing by Parbold Railway Station and just as you are about to follow the road around a bend to the left there are shops on the right. To the right of these there is an entrance to a car park at the rear. This is where we will meet and park. Meet here at 12.30pm - if anyone needs to contact me my mobile is 07743 529383 (temp while my lost one is replaced!)

The walk is a delightful one as anyone who went on it in 2007 will know. It offers a great variety of beautiful terrain and sights. The Fairy Glen at this time of year is really beautiful with it's canopy of greenery and tranquil paths that wend their way through this hidden delight. Complete with a nice photo opportunity with the colourful sign! The countryside around Parbold is one of those areas that after walking around makes you think "Who knew!" it really is pretty and an enjoyable walk, just look at the pictures to see some of the lovely sights. There should be a pub stop en route at the Rigbye Arms - winner of the Lancashire Life Magazine "Pub Food of the Year" award. They don't like people eating their own food in their grounds so while people are in the pub others might have to wait around nearby if they bring their own lunches. Prices are not too bad and they offer a very nice selection of food as you can imagine at a good standard with being award winners. They have a room specially for walkers in mind - a very nice inclusive touch! There is also a pub in Parbold at the end should anyone want to stop for a refreshing drink at the end. I think this walk offers all the right ingredients, pretty and not really taxing (in fact I'd say easy for the most part with a couple of small climbs up steps in the Glen), good food en route and all the social elements that a lot of our walkers like!

I hope to see lots of you there!

Best wishes,

Cliff

Sunday 23 May - Saddleworth Valley

2010-05-18T02:12:00.000-07:00

This Sundays walk will be in the Saddleworth Valley area and led by Patrick.

This will be a very easy, flat, 8 mile walk along the Huddersfield Narrow Canal through the picturesque Saddleworth Valley from Mossley to the start of the Stanedge Tunnel at Diggle and back to Greenfield, where we will catch the train back to Mossley.Simple walking boots or trainers will be fine. There will be a stop for lunch in the pretty village of Uppermill-bring your own or buy it in the village.

Meet for 12.30 by the River Tame bridge on Egmont St in Mossley. This can be reached by taking the M60 to Ashton-U-Lyne (junct 23). Follow signs to Town Centre/Stalybridge (A635). At the Town Hall roundabout continue on the A635 to Stalybridge. Follow this for 2/3 miles and turn right onto Egmont St. Go past Mossley Boys Football ground and Kingdom Hall private car park (on the right) and park on the left just before the Tame River. You can catch a train from Manchester Victoria at 11.43 arriving at Mossley at 12.02, and walk from the station down to Egmont St. Trains from Greenfield run once an hour at 58 mins to the hour, so we would hope to catch the 16.58 back to Mossley (approx £2)-the new summer timetable begins on the day of the walk, but should not vary significantly (you can check times on www.northernrail.org ). There is a lovely canalside pub (the Kingfisher) at Greenfield where you can buy 2 for 1 meals, should you wish to catch a later train back to Mossley.

Should you need to contact me ring 07708152106. I look forward to seeing you on the walk. Patrick

Photos from Sid Barlow from the April 25th Walk @ Howarth

2010-05-18T02:10:00.001-07:00

Bronte Country - Haworth - Sunday 25 April at 12.30pm

2010-04-21T03:18:00.000-07:00

Here are details for my walk next Sunday.

This is a walk across the wild Pennine moors to the romantic ruin of Top Withins, the alleged inspiration for the house and its location in Wuthering Heights. There are some stunning views.

The walk is approx 7 miles, mostly on well marked paths though there are some rocky/rough sections, over open, exposed moorland and some road walking. There are some steep climbs. Boots and appropriate clothing are recommended as there is no shelter on the walk from the elements!

Bring sandwiches and drinks etc as there aren't any eating venues on the route. We can stop at a local pub towards the end of the walk in Stanbury called the Wuthering Heights (naturally!) where we can stop for a rest/toilet/drink etc.

Meet at 12.30pm outside the Bronte Parsonage Museum/Shop in the centre of Haworth. There are some public toilets in the car park nearby which we can make use of at the start and end of the walk. There are plenty of car parks in Haworth. When I was there at Easter I noticed car park charges had increased and the one by the Parsonage was charging about £4 for a day's parking. Please be sure to allow enough time on your car park ticket as some walkers didn't last year and got hit with a hefty clamping fee. (I would say 5 hours should be long enough). Howarth is located about 3 miles south east of Keighley - on the A629 between Keighley and Halifax. Bronte Parsonage Museum postcode is BD22 8DR. Grid ref for the car park adjacent to the Museum is SE 029373. The Bronte Parsonage Museum website is www.bronte.info

Any questions or problems please contact me on my mobile 07929 829 284 or email Daveinprestwich@btinternet.com

Hope to see you there - David.

Disley and River Goyt - Sunday 18 April

2010-04-14T09:06:00.000-07:00

Please find below walk for this Sunday which will be led by Roger. This replaces the one originally scheduled which will now take place later in the year.

Thanks

Derek

Here are the directions for my walk:

Sunday 18 April 12 Noon start, meeting in the station car park at Disley railway station.

6 miles (2.5 - 3 hours) circular walk from Disley railway station along the river Goyt to new Mills and back along the Peak Forest canal.Taking in the Millenium Walkway, disused mill, Archimedean Screw and Swissells factory. Ending in the White Horse, 18 Buxton Old Road, Disley, SK12 2BB, just around the corner from the station for thiese who fancy a drink.

Lead by Roger - any problems phone, DON'T text 07799 163114 (no texts please)

Bring a packed lunch (lunch about 13.30) and sturdy shoes/boots, although the walk is mainly along good footpaths and not muddy. Pretty flat for most of the route, with a couple of gradients at the beginning and halfway. There is no tea shop or toilet along the walk.

OoS member to participate in 26 mile 'Shine' marathon walk for Cancer Research UK

2010-04-06T03:37:00.001-07:00

Hi folks - I wondered if you'd be interested in sponsoring me for a night time marathon walk? I would really appreciate your support and it's for a good cause too!

The walk starts at 10pm on Saturday 17 April from Manchester city centre. The route includes the Lowry Centre, Trafford Centre, Man Utd football ground, Moss Side, Chorlton and Whitworth Park.

I'm doing really well so far for sponsorship but as the walk draws nearer I'm beginning to wonder what I've left myself in for - 26 miles feels like a very very long way now! I need all the encouragement I can get and it would be fantastic if you were able to sponsor me.

Have a look at my fundraising page on the JustGiving website: http://www.sponsormetoshine.org/davehibbert and click on the 'sponsor me now' button or if you prefer not to sponsor online send me a quick email and I can add your name to my sponsor form - daveinprestwich@btinternet.com

I hope to be on the next walk on 11 April and I'll be leading a walk on the 25th April from Howarth (assuming I'm still in one piece!) and look forward to seeing you there.

Thanks for taking time to read this.

David (from Prestwich!).

Sunday 11 April - Sutton Manor/Clock Face

2010-04-06T03:36:00.000-07:00

This is a six to seven mile walk on relatively flat agricultural land, encompassing two country parks planted on the reclaimed sites of the former Clock Face and Sutton Manor coal mines. En route is 'The Dream', a recently completed 20 metre high sculpture inspired to regenerate the spirit of the local (once mining) communities. You may have seen it driving along the M62 motorway near IKEA. There are also good views to be seen from Sutton Manor. To the west is the Mersey Estuary and Snowdonia, and to the east Manchester and the Pennines.
It will be a good idea to bring walking boots as it could be quite muddy in places, and a packed lunch if desired, as there are no pubs or shops on the walk. There is a pub in Clock Face village if you fancy a drink afterwards.

Directions
If coming from the direction of Manchester, turn off the M62 at Junction 8, and take the turning for Burtonwood. Travel along Burtonwood Rd and on to Clay Lane. In Burtonwood turn left onto Gorsey Lane and follow the road for about a mile until you get to the car park at Clock Face Colliery Country Park. If you have any problems with the directions contact us on 07799117647
We look forward to seeing you there at 12.30 pm

Sid and Arthur

Werneth Low Walk pictures - thanks to Sid

2010-03-17T18:02:00.000-07:00

Weekend away in Hawes, Yorkshire Dales - 18 - 20 June

2010-03-16T02:44:00.001-07:00

Hawes - weekend away - 18 - 20 June

This years Out on Sunday weekend away will be in Hawes, North Yorkshire in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales. There is some good walking accessible including a lovely walk from Aysgarth waterfalls to Bolton Castle which we would hope to do.
There are a number of B and Bs and a link is given below. A number of pubs in the town serve food.

As in previous years, please make your own arrangements for accommodation and I will email nearer the time at a pub where we can meet up on the Friday evening (18th).

Look forward to sharing another fun filled weekend away with you and hopefully the weather will be kinder this year.

http://www.dalesandvales.co.uk/accommodation_directory/yorkshire_dales/0013-hawes/index.html

Lower Medlock Valley - Sunday 21 March

2010-03-16T02:43:00.001-07:00

Sundays walk will be led by Gilbert and Andy and will be 5-6 mile walk in the Lower Medlock Valley. along canal and through parkland from Daisy Nook Country Park to Park Bridge and back with aspects of industrial heritage along the way.

It is not a strenuous walk is primarily on the flat with the occasional incline.

The walk will start at Daisy Nook car park which is 1.5 miles North West of Ashton Under Lyne. Follow the A627, Oldham Road from Ashton and after about a mile turn left down Newmarket Road (in an area called Waterloo - before you get to the sports ground). Drive all the way along Newmarket Road and at the end bear to the right and Daisy Nook is on your right.

Meet at 12 Noon. Gilbert's mobile number is 07758 862339 if you need to contact him.

Boots advisable and packed lunch.

Sun March 7th Werneth Low Country Park

2010-02-16T00:14:00.000-08:00

In a slight change to the originally sent out walks list Roger has swapped with Gilbert and Andy and he has also changed his walk too!

Sun March 7th Werneth Low Country Park

Here are the directions for the walk

Sunday 7 March 12 Noon start, meeting at Lower Higham Visitor Centre, Werneth Low Country Park.

Approx 6 miles (2.5 - 3 hours) circular walk from Werneth Low (Stockport/Hyde area) taking in Etherow County Park. Some fairly long, moderately steep gradients as we will be dropping into a couple of valleys. Also a bit muddy in places.

From Werneth Low (Low means hill in ancient speak) there is a panoramic view across Manchester. On the way from Etherow there are great views of a couple of hills and valleys and we will walk along the river Etherow for some of the way.

Lead by Roger - any problems phone, DON'T text 07799 163114 (no texts please)

Bring a packed lunch and sturdy shoes/boots. There is a cafe with toilets about half way round the walk at Etherow visitor centre. After the walk we can eat and drink at the Hare and Hounds pub just a short distance away.

To find the start point:
Lower Higham Visitor Centre
Higham Lane, Hyde, Cheshire SK14 5LR
Near the junction of Spring Avenue and Mottram Old Road (A560)

Hare and Hounds
Werneth Low Road
Hyde, Cheshire SK14 3AA

Redes Mere & Capesthorne Hall 07/02/10

2010-02-13T04:46:00.000-08:00

The walk was a pleasant walk around Redes Mere and couple of other small lakes with view of Capesthorne Hall and then across farmland and back towards Redes Mere. It was a an easy 3.5 miles in length. Led by Derek & David it was a nice way (for me!) to slide back into the walking season! Gently undulating with a couple of minor inclines it was for the most part a very easy if muddy walk around the lovely Cheshire countryside.

The walk attracted a dozen or so which for early February was a nice number. The weather was about 6 Celsius, dry and crisp! We got to walk close to the beautiful Capesthorne Hall and we were afforded lovely views of it's grounds and gardens. The Hall itself was built between 1719 and 1732. Extensive changes over a hundred years later, included the distinctive turrets and pinnacles. But in 1861 a disastrous fire threatened to destroy the Hall completely. It was only saved by a change of the direction of the wind, which left just two wings remaining. The entire central section was gutted and had to be completely rebuilt. During the Second World War, Capesthorne was used as a Red Cross Hospital and its cellars became an effective bomb shelter for nurses and soldiers.
The historic collection displays a family's taste collected over three centuries and include fine art, marble sculptures, tapestries, Regency, Jacobean and Rococo antiques from throughout Europe and America and the Far East.
The present Squire, Sir William Bromley-Davenport, Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire and his American wife Elizabeth (E.B Watts), a professional artist, are the latest of eight generations to live there.

Proposed Walks for 2010

2010-02-07T09:30:00.000-08:00

This is the current proposed walks list for 2010. As you can see some walks are TBA (to be arranged) so this list will be a framework for the 2010 walks season. As more information becomes available the website/blog will be updated and added to with more information on upcoming walks.

24 Jan	Dunham Massey	David and Derek
7 Feb	Redes Mere and Capethorne Hall	David and Derek
21 Feb	No Walk
7 March	Werneth Low Country Park	Roger
21 March	Medlock Valley	Gilbert and Andy
11 April	Sutton Manor	Sid and Arthur
18 April	Longendale Valley	Paul
25 April	Howarth	David H
9 May	Styal Woods	Phil and Phil
23 May	TBA	Patrick
5 or 6 June	Picnic/walk around Aisndale	Derek and David
13 June	TBA	Cliff and Wayne
20 June	Yorkshire Dales	Walking weekend
27 June	Glasson Dock/Thurnham	Anthony
4 July	Rivington	Stathis and Rod
11July	TBA	Cliff and Wayne
18 July	TBA	Patrick
25 July	Werneth Low Country Park, near Stockport	Roger
1 August	Middlewood Way	Phil and Phil
8 August	Darwen Tower	Sid and Arthur
15 Aug	TBA	Cliff and Wayne
22 Aug	TBA	David H
5 Sept	TBA	Patrick
19 Sept	Reddish Vale	Gilbert and Andy
3 Oct	Peel Tower	David H
17 Oct	TBA	Stathis and Rod
31 Oct	Lower Goyt Valley	Gilbert and Andy
14 Nov	TBA	Derek and David
21 Nov	Pennington Flash	Mark
19 Dec	Xmas Lunch

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