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Train
Walks 2006
Below are reports and photos of selected train walks from
2006, with the most recent appearing first. Please click on
the appropriate links to view these.
9 December 2006 - Bentham Circular
via Ingleton
25 November 2006 - Hellifield
Circular via Hellifield Green & Halton West
11 November 2006 - Lancaster
Circular via Lune Valley & Halton
21 October 2006 - Appleby Circular
via Bandley Bridge, Hoff Beck & Rutter Force
14 October 2006 - Settle to Ribblehead
via Smearsett Scar & Ingleborough
12 August 2006 - Kirkby Stephen
to Garsdale via Wild Boar Fell & Swarth Fell
15 July 2006 - Kirkby Stephen
Circular via Podgill, Merrrygill Viaduct & Hartley
10 June 2006 - Windermere
Circular via Ambleside
6 May 2006 - Garsdale Circular
via Hell Gill and Lund's Church
29 April 2006 - Hellifield to
Gisburn via Ribble Way
18 March 2006 - Kettlewell to
Grassington via Yarnbury
11 March 2006 - Clapham to Bentham
via Newby & Ingleton
4 March 2006 - Ribblehead to
Horton via Ling Gill & Pennine Way
18 February 2006 - Gargrave
to Skipton via East Marton, Earby & Elslack
11 February 2006 - Lancaster
Circular via Glasson Arm & Lancs Coastal Way
11 February 2006 - Settle to Horton
via Stainforth Scar & Plover Hill
4 February 2006 - Gisburn to
Clitheroe via Bolton-by-Bowland
14 January 2006 - Wennington to
Bentham via Burton-in-Lonsdale
14 January 2006 - Horton to Ribblehead
via Ribble Way & Dent Head
7 January 2006 - Settle Circular
(3 Walks & Annual Dinner)
1 January 2006 - Ilkley Circular
via Beamsley Beacon
9 December 2006 - Bentham
Circular via Ingleton
Please click the links below to view the photos
Photos by Penny Smith
25 November 2006 - Hellifield
Circular via Hellifield Green & Halton West
Please click the links below to view the photos
Photos by Penny Smith
11 November 2006 - Lancaster
Circular via Lune Valley & Halton
Morecambe train on time!!! Seemed rather full, Morecambe
seems to be more popular than in the past. All change at Carnforth,
on to a full train, standing room only. Arrive Lancaster 23
bodies in all a good mixed group, first stop" Sainsburys"
wine!!! something must be afoot, guess what we had a birthday
girl amongst us.
A good brisk walk along the cycle walkway arriving under the
arches for a quick elevenses and a get to know you session,
continuing forward picking up a path on the riverbank, a good
flow of water in the Lune giving any salmon (none seen) good
passage upstream. A big difference from previous walks was
the sight of a large increase in domestic properties, remnants
and footings of mills from the past were visible as was the
old water shoot and pump house. Following the Lune to the
Crook of Lune and the picnic site a perfect place for dinner
as there were tables and benches plus tea and bacon butties.
Out came the wine and cake, it was Joyce's birthday, a special
one, "I think they are all special at our age" wine
and food enjoyed as was the company. While enjoying lunch
we had a fantastic view up the Lune Valley towards Hornby
and to the South a good view towards the Trough of Bownland.
Forward over the bridge picking up the old railway track past
the booking office turning left heading towards the Trough
of Bowland, a steady climb up a country track shielded from
the wind and rain by a large thick hedge, approaching H.M.P.
now known as the ------------Farms, a few of our party seemed
to think some of us should be going through the gates, we
then had to take shelter behind the hedge as the rain came
down in bucket fulls, a short lull in the weather and we headed
for Lancaster, past Williams Park and butterfly house down
in to the centre, splitting up into groups, T shop and pub
on the menu. A most enjoyable day thanks to Joyce, Angela
and company.
PS. will not mention what happened on the return train journey,
You should have been there.
The Pain
Report by Eric Bottomley
21 October 2006 - Appleby
Circular via Bandley Bridge, Hoff Beck & Rutter Force
Please click the links below to view the photos
Photos by Eric Bottomley
14 October 2006 - Settle to
Ribblehead via Smearsett Scar & Ingleborough
Of the many walkers alighting at Settle on a beautiful Autumn
morning, twelve assembled for the above, around a walk leader
knowing 'a direct line' was needed to keep to the stated mileage.
Away by 10.00 am; down to the Ribble and within 20 metres
of the footbridge a heron in 'fishing mode' and oblivious
to a passing DalesRail group. Up the riverside and up behind
Stackhouse, direct to Smearsett Scar (11.15 - 11.25) via the
Happy Valley mentioned in 'Wainwrights Walks in Limestone
Country'. Taking advantage of 'Right to Roam' (plus two ladder
stiles aiding access for rock-climbers) we stayed on the scarp
edge past Pot Scar, before dropping down through the Wharfe
Wood way marked trail. Austwick Town Head came next before
lunch at Norber (12.50 - 1.10) and a look at the textbook
example of an 'erratic'. NNW now on 'thin' sheeptracks, up
and over to a gateway on the Sulber - Clapham Path, from where
a discernible path led to Gaping Gill (2.40) and the staircase
path took us to the top of Ingleborough (3.00 - 3.15). Everyone
was enjoying the day and we were on time for the return train.
The delightful contour path overlooking Chapel-le-Dale was
followed to the dip before Park Fell, where quad bikes head
down to a sheepfold. From here a stile on the Colt Park path
and one into the former Ribblehead Quarry facilitated the
last leg to the Station Hotel (4.55 pm) without any wall climbing.
A half hour in the pub before the train home rounded off a
good day.
Special thanks to Yvonne for deputising as back- up and to
Peter for bringing his collie Jess, as it was a pleasure to
walk with such a well trained dog.
And the total mileage? - Norman's GPS said 15.9 miles.
Report by Jack Wood
12 August 2006 - Kirkby Stephen
to Garsdale via Wild Boar Fell & Swarth Fell
Please click the links below to view the photos
The train walk over Wild Boar Fell was enjoyed by all who
braved the unseasonable cold and windy weather. At least the
strong northerly wind was at our backs and it meant that visibility
was clear giving good views of all the surrounding hills despite
the cloud cover. The intriguing diversion of watching a helicopter,
police car, fire engine and ambulance half way up Lady Anne's
Way on the other side of the valley did not delay our arrival
at the Moorcock for very welcome and warming refreshments.
Photos & report by Martin Housley
15 July 2006 - Kirkby Stephen
Circular via Podgill, Merrrygill Viaduct & Hartley
Please click the links below to view the photos
Photos by Eric Bottomley
10 June 2006 - Windermere
Circular via Ambleside
Not to be, due to the train being late from Leads. On boarding
in Skipton we were greeted by many a concerned face, are we
going to miss our connection was the info being passed around,
not to worry we have not missed it yet and I am sure Glen
will come up with an alternative. I must admit the conductor
on the train was very concerned and helpful constantly giving
updated information and keeping our hopes up. After lots of
discussion an alternate walk was suggested, start at Carnforth
and over to Arnside by Jenny Brown's Point. On arriving at
Carnforth , "Guess What" we were held up at the
lights to allow our connecting train through, what planning.
Off from the station towards Wharton, weather excellent with
every body in good spirits, a few heads down on the count
as some members travelled to Ambleside by car, on to Wharton
a tea stop being taken with goodies passed around a steady
climb up Wharton Crag. On arriving at the top two figures
were sited, sitting very quiet looking at the splendid view
over Morecambe Bay and they knew our Christine.
After a few words we remembered them from an earlier walk
around Lancaster, at the time we assumed that they were Lancastrian
reinforcements brought in by Philip and Mike, as they were
not on the walk, had they sent out spies? (We have really
got them worried). A little confusion on the top of the crag
as to which was the correct path lots of paths being visible,
finally taking the correct route we were soon off the crag.
Down towards the A6 we caught sight of a mature gentleman
coming up the hill towards us at a fast pace and with ease
he must have been fit! as he approached we realized he had
a ' put put' engine fitted to the bike, these I remember from
my early days but have not seen one for years, "memories".
Leaving the A6, on to the shore towards Jenny Brown's Point
where lunch was taken in glorious weather, moving on, a short
walk on tarmac, up a track across fields approaching a large
caravan park, where ice cream and drinks were the order of
the day and appreciated, forward on to National Trust land
then dropping down into Arnside. A drink at the pub after
which some of the party decided to catch the earlier train,
as the next train would mean a long wait in Lancaster. After
another pint with the brain more alert we came up with the
idea of catching the train to Carnforth, giving us more time
between connecting trains, this was a good idea as we could
have a meal in the Station Pub (plus a pint). The meal was
excellent as was the beer, with every one enjoying the food.
A good walk put together at short notice, excellent views
and weather, food and liquid a bonus, company as usual, always
good and enjoyed. Thanks to Glen and Pat for salvaging the
day.
Your persistent annoyance.
The Pain.
Report by Eric Bottomley
6 May 2006 - Garsdale Circular
via Hell Gill and Lund's Church
Please click the links below to view the photos
Photos by Eric Bottomley
29 April 2006 - Hellifield
to Gisburn via Ribble Way
Please click the links below to view the photos
Photos by Eric Bottomley
18 March 2006 - Kettlewell
to Grassington via Yarnbury
Please click the links below to view the photos
Photos by Eric Bottomley
11 March 2006 - Clapham to
Bentham via Newby & Ingleton
Photos by Eric Bottomley
4 March 2006 - Ribblehead
to Horton via Ling Gill & Pennine Way
Please click the links below to view the photos
Photos by Eric Bottomley
18 February 2006 - Gargrave
to Skipton via East Marton, Earby & Elslack
Please click the links below to view the photos
Photos by Eric Bottomley
11 February 2006 - Lancaster
Circular via Glasson Arm & Lancs Coastal Way
Please click the links below to view the photos
Noticeable on the train was that the Tykes vastly outnumbered
the Lancastrians, on arriving at the station we were met by
friends of Philip and Mike (had they called in reinforcements).
A few furr's and thurr's from our leader Mike with Jenny behind
(joke for those in the know) we were off into the centre of
Lancaster, our ancestors would turn in their grave, a party
of Tykes being led through Lancaster by a Lancashire leader
with his fearsome dog Black Fang, Lancastrians scattering
in all directions at the fearsome sight, knew the Lancastrians
would have to admit defeat. Jenny deciding not to count heads
as we were going on the bus to Galgate, no reduction for senior
Tykes, Lancastrian driver getting is own back.
Arriving Galgate, more Lancastrians awaiting us, more reinforcements!
Mike and Philip must be really worried, one of our party remembered
from a previous visit, hot pies, unknown to the others he
managed to purchase one which was delicious. Jenny decided
now was the time to have a count, 22 bodies in all including
Lancastrians.
A quick walk through Galgate and on to the canal very colourful
boats in plenty, a short walk to the Glasson Arm, (not a pub,
a spur off the main canal) a new sign had been erected, "Towpath
Closed". Tea stop was called while Mike studied the map,
about turn was the order retrace your steps, what he really
meant was we will have to go back, it looked different going
the other way.
A quick walk on the road, then the canal with a steady pace
to Glasson Dock, lunch was taken here, it was cold but the
weather was fine. Three members of the party decided on kippers,
going in the shop, which was already occupied with five family
members who after having been served decided to commandeer
the shop assistant in useless conversation resulting in her
ignoring our presence, (not the thing to do to a Tyke) after
a few coughs and a long wait we decided to walk out. In future
forget the kippers. As it was cold we decided on hot drinks
from the caravan, different attitude from the proprietor,
good conversation, cheep refills and we knew people in common.
Off on the old railway line with the option of the track
or the shorrreline, both being used, a good pace back in to
Lancaster following the river Lune, (could ancient Lancastrians
have worshipped the moon) perhaps one of our more educated
members would do some research. Here we regrouped before setting
off for the pub. Tykes and Lancastrians sharing a pint in
a friendly way. Guess who one?
Good day, good walk, good fun.
Thanks Mike and Jenny
The Pain ( Tyke)
Photos and report by Eric Bottomley
11 February 2006 - Settle to
Horton via Stainforth Scar & Plover Hill
Whatever happened to Pen-y-ghent?
Brilliant walk, weather cold and quite misty. We felt we had
done the 14 miles by lunch time, at Churn Milk Pot. We had
a strange feeling some climbing was in the offing, how else
would we get to Plover Hill!!? We soon found out the truth
as Pen-y-ghent loomed out of the mist, it looked so high and
so ghostly, were we really going to climb it, no mention of
this in the leaflet!!?
Most of us had climbed this peak many times, but never had
it looked so magnificent and fearsome.
However we all managed the climb, then over Plover Hill, down
to Fox-up Moor to end in Horton.
Thanks to David and Carola - a BRILLIANT Walk.
Report by Pat Bottomley
4 February 2006 - Gisburn
to Clitheroe via Bolton-by-Bowland
Please click the links below to view the photos
Photos by Eric Bottomley
14 January 2006 - Wennington
to Bentham via Burton-in-Lonsdale
Please click the links below to view the photos
A short speech by our leader of the day John and a quick
remark, I am sure if the mileage is not correct some one with
a GPS will be sure to let me know.
A short climb up the hill then turning into fields a slight
descent into a boggy wood with a stream plus a few fallen
trees and obstacles to negotiate. We were thinking this was
going to be hard or was he putting us to the test? Some stunning
fungi was already showing gorgeous yellow colour on fallen
trees (see photo above). A short climb on the approach to
a small farm; I am sure some one said 'have a gander at this'.
On arriving at the said spot, I said 'have a gander at what?'
'No there's a goose' was the reply; don't know if its my hearing
or one of these local dialects.
A stop was called for elevenses; on sitting down we suddenly
realized the sun was out and we looked at the view. This was
absolutely stunning and nobody remembered having been there
before. We should have realized this as we had approached
on a new path. More mud and across fields to a notice, (beware
of the bull) 'Where is the bull?' I heard, 'did you not see
it?' 'No' was the reply, 'did you not see our leader stomping
his feet and bellowing?' 'I thought he was doing it at us.'
He was.
On to a farm, whilst regrouping and looking at lambs, Brian
appeared, hands and boots caked in mud. 'What ye bin doin?'
' I've been down on all fours' 'What for?' ' Because I got
stuck in the mud and couldn't get out!' A few words from our
leader to the farmer and Brian was invited to wash off in
the farmer's shower, (hose pipe outside). He returned looking
well scrubbed and pleased. Moving off I heard 'What a lot
of molehills.' 'Yes it's the rutting season for moles.' 'Moles
don't rut!' 'How do you know?' 'Deer rut, 'deer don't dig
tunnels!' enough said!!
On to Low Bentham down by the side of Sedbergh Junior School
- could John have taken a wrong turn? If you were a stranger
and saw the sign on the school you would think you were lost.
Up the side of the river then stopping for lunch; again good
views and weather. On through fields passing a herd of Alpacas
(no we were still in England) and strange goats. Forward to
Burton in Lonsdale for a quick cuppa; at this point Brian
decided on a taxi. Three of us said we would go with him,
(the only reason being to share the fare) as it would be expensive.
That it was, it cost £4-00, not each, but for the whole
fare. John had been informed to arrive in Bentham in time
to have fish and chips (sit down) and a pint. He did not fail.
A good walk new paths, good views, good company, and a good
day.
Have used a little poetic licence in the above.
The Pain
Photos and report by Eric Bottomley
14 January 2006 - Horton to
Ribblehead via Ribble Way & Dent Head
18 walkers set off from Horton, weather seasonable, pace
reasonable!! Ribbleway quite wet, but we arrived at Gods'
Bridge in good time, it's a long time since I've visited this
bridge. Down the road to Denthead Farm, which is where the
turkeys come in!! Our back-up had been worried about these
(12 in all) He thought they would chase us, he had problems
when walking the route previously. However the turkeys behaved
well and we proceeded towards the forest. Unfortunately the
author got well and truly stuck in a BOG, it took 3 people
to pull her out. At the other extreme,6 walkers turned into
'hares' and streaked off for the early train, leaving 12 people
walking at the expected pace. However this was an excellent
walk with a wonderful sunset as we passed the Ribblehead Viaduct
on the way to a well deserved drink (tea of course!!?)
Thank you to the two M's.
Report by Pat Bottomley
7 January 2006 - Settle Circular
(3 Walks & Annual Dinner)
'A' Walk
Quickly leaving the bustle on Settle station, 'A' party swept
up Constitutional Hill and gathered at the summit for a count.
The leaders were able to hand out waypoints for the many holders
of GPS's and in the knowledge that the early mist would not
pose any problem, continued via Stockdale and Nappa Cross
to Malham Cove and Tarn. Hazy sunshine and New Year banter
assisted the steady pace, light work being made of the climbs
from some members who had only come for the festivities. Capon
Hall was left far behind and following a pleasant descent
and even a tea and banana stop at Jubilee Cave, the watering
hole of Settle was utilised prior to the bun fight later.
The return even allowed one member to 'have a quick one' before
dinner.
Statistics as follows -
Distance: 14.2 miles
Ascent: 2494 feet
Descent: 2473 feet
Time: 6 hrs 04 mins
Report by Lewis Handford
'B' Walk
Please click the links below to view the photos
Photos by Diane Taylor
With great anticipation of a hearty meal at the end, twenty-seven
set off on a gloomy day along the Ribble Way by the river
to Stackhouses. From here the river was crossed and the group
climbed up the hill to Dick’s Plantation. Here the leaders
rewarded all for making it so far in their usual festive spirited
manner by producing mulled wine. From here the walk headed
past the Winskill and onto Catrigg Force. The drizzle held
off until after lunch which was taken by the stile over the
wall to the Victoria cave area. From Attermire the walk crossed
the fields and down the road to Lambert Lane. Gunmen lined
Cow Pasture Lane as the group tried to keep out of the puddles.
Was this a ten gun-salute for the leaders for not getting
lost/losing anyone? Shortly after this the walk met up with
the Easy Group and together all made their way across the
fields to the Falcon Manor—and the New Year meal.
Report by Diane Taylor & Penny Lucas
'C' Walk
Please click the links below to view the photos
Despite the cold, damp, overcast, miserable weather, a large
group of members gathered on the platform at Settle station
to find the leaders of their chosen walk, 'A', 'B' or 'C'.
The 'C' party, led by Glennys and backed up by Pat, set off
across the station yard, carefully counted by Pat. By the
time we had walked down the hill and crossed the footbridge
over the Ribble, one member was so far behind that they'd
never complete the full distance. Glennys went back and diplomatically
explained this and gave advice on the easiest way back into
town. Continuing up fields and through wall stiles, a pause
at the top to look back at the view, albeit very hazy, everyone
agreed they'd never seen Settle from this angle, after years
of walking in the area!! After passing the beautiful domed
chapel of Giggleswick School, the route went over undulating
fields, very soggy in places, passing under the Morecambe
Line and adjacent Settle By-pass, up one particularly very
muddy lane, and some diabolical wall stiles, lunch was taken
near Birchshow Rocks. We then descended gradually, passing
Hollin Hall, to the flat ground of the valley. Between here
and the river, we had to cross a large field covered in liquid
fertilizer (not the name used at the time) and still being
sprayed!! Very fragrant. Next, a very difficult fence stile
with a large tree branch right across it, followed by the
crossing of a small, muddy drain by way of very slippery,
moss covered tree roots. One member who shall be nameless
called Jenny, slipped and one foot disappeared in the slime!
After this the going was good. On the last lap we met up with
the 'B' party and all walked back together to Settle. In spite
of the poor weather everyone had a good day with many world
problems solved and some witty repartee. Many thanks to Glennys
and Pat.
Photos and report by Trevor Grimston
1 January 2006 - Ilkley Circular
via Beamsley Beacon
Please click the links below to view the photos by Carola
Maddox
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