Sunday 7 May 2017
Leader:John Jones
Photos: John Jones

Leader: John Jones.

On a clear, dry, sunny afternoon 14 members and Bess, the faithful small dog, set out from Downham (height 439 ft) at 2.30 p.m. to ascend Pendle Hill (height 1827 ft). Field paths were followed towards Worston, beside a wood full of Blue Bells, to Worsaw End at the foot of Worsaw Hill. Then the road was followed to the road end between Angram Green and Moorside farms to reach the start of the old Permissive Path (before Open Access). The well-marked permissive path was followed with an initial steep ascent beside Burst Clough, then a more gentle ascent over open moor beside the wall to reach the final wall corner, where a much needed rest stop was made.

Another steep ascent reached the more gently sloping track that led to the southern top, marked by the substantial cairn built to commemorate 75 years of Scouting (1982). The extensive views to the north, where Whernside, Ingleborough and Pen-y-ghent could be clearly seen, and to the west to the Irish Sea, where enjoyed.

A cold breeze and an overcast sky hurried the party forward to the enclosed shelter further up the ridge where there was just sufficient room to seat all 14 of the party for the tea stop, Bess had to be content with the ground!

The cool air prevented a long tea stop and spurred the party on again to keep warm. The first summit wall was crossed by a high ladder stile (see gallery) and the intermediate summit (532m, 1745ft) was traversed to reach the second summit wall. Passing through the hand gate (thanks to Gordon?s assistance) a right turn was made to reach the true summit Trig Point on Big End at the north eastern corner of Pendle Hill (557m 1827ft). The views over the Colne valley to the east were admired.

Departing the summit to return to the second summit wall, we were surprised to meet a fully robed Muslim family, unadorned by rucksacks but wearing trainers, (see gallery), who cheerfully called out to us that it was a great day for a walk! From the second summit wall the descent was made down the direct path heading for Downham, at first fairly steeply then more gradually across the open moor beside Hookcliffe Plantation, reaching the minor road at Lane Head.

Field paths were then followed passing Clay House and eventually beside Downham Beck to return to Downham at about 6.30 p.m., having covered some 6.5 miles. On the return journey the four cars reached Burton together at 8.00 p.m. An excellent outing, perhaps a little too ambitious for a Sunday walk, was enjoyed by all on a glorious day.

John Jones. 8 May 2017