I have stumbled across a guidebook written by John Convey for this walk through Lancashire. A two-section walk linking medieval monastic sites of Lancashire and South Cumbria, beginning in southwest Lancashire at Upholland, and making its way up to Furness Abbey in what is now Cumbria. The first section finishes at Sawley Abbey. The second starts at Cockerham Priory and continues to Furness Abbey. The author has researched the area thoroughly and writes a lively account of the history of the various localities. A third of his guide consists of references and sources to his research, lending authenticity to the places visited.  Time will tell if his walking route is worthwhile.

The guide gives good public transport information, and I intend to eschew my car for the duration. Out with the bus pass and Senior Railcard. I will hopefully complete the way on an ad hoc daily basis, with regard to the winter weather and other commitments. It should be ideal for the short daylight at the end of the year.

Convey has an obvious liking for the variety of landscapes in the ‘old’ Lancashire. As well as the monastic houses from Medieval times, he includes many other religious places of note along the way. As he says –

“Every time I see a church

  I pay a little visit

So when at last I’m carried in      

 The Lord won’t say ‘Who is it’?

*****