PENDLE HILL
Walk Leader: Peter Hitchcock
Distance: Approx 7mls
HAPPY NEW YEAR, everyone! Will you still be saying that at the end of the quick “up & down Pendle Hill” scramble, I wonder!!
At nearly 7 miles, the route is long enough for this morning and, with 2 x 10min stops, should take us 2:35 mins overall – which is our limit for today to enable the coach to leave Downham to get to the D&P on time. So...............it will be a ‘forced-march’, I’m afraid, and 20 mins into the walk you will be faced with a hard, steep 30 min, 1500’ climb up the side of the hill to reach the lower peak. It is a good way to do it and well worth the effort (unless the hill is shrouded in cloud) and it will provide you with a healthy appetite for lunch. But, it is not for the faint-hearted!! We shall not go to the trig point to save 15-20 mins and you will not miss out on any views – if not in cloud!!!
After a short respite, we skirt around the peak westwards for 2 kms (passing an impressive cairn built by the local scout group to celebrate the centenary of the Scouting Organisation) before descending rapidly down the northern-side. This part is even “trottable”, its easier on the feet! Once down in the dale, it is 25mins walk back to the car park with its very original well-equipped free barn toilets!!
Warning: the going is very boggy throughout so gaiters or (willies) will be beneficial! Also, poles might help you cross the becks more easily. It will be a great morning out before a real ale (or 3)!
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