Walk 12/2007 – Forest of Bowland

Friday 1st June to Sunday 3rd June 2007

Saturday

It’s a fine sunny day as we set off from the hostel and head south. The route we took goes to Broadhead Farm, Harrop Hall and Harrop Fold before heading into the wood at Grindleton Fell. The repeated calls of the Curlew and Lapwings are a constant reminder that we are out on the hills and there are few people around. In fact, we noted that the cows and sheep that we came across all seemed unused to human beings and moved away as we approached rather than ignoring us. Parts of the wood had been felled and we found navigation quite difficult as the path was different to that shown on the map. As we neared the top of the climb up Grindleton Fell we stopped for lunch with a view back towards the Ribble valley.

We completed the climb up to Far Brown Hill and then descended down to Newton via Meanley Wood. Here we found a pub with a very inviting garden which we found we were unable to pass by. Somewhat later we returned back along the river to Slaidburn.

There’s a bridge – this must be the way.	It’s rare to see a wild flower meadow these days.
This shot from Simon indicates how old he really thinks we are!	Graham and Owen at the edge of the felled forest.
The climb up Grindleton Fell.	The view into the Hodder valley.
Simon takes in the view.	A tranquil scene as we approach Newton.
We stop for refreshment in Newton...........	.......before making our way back along the river.