I arranged a walk with my son today whist he is off work and I took him on a repeat of one of his early childhood walks of which he had no recollection – the classic Nicky Nook circuit from Scorton.
This involves parking near the local parish church, St. Peter’s, famous for its steeple, a landmark visible from the M6 going north. The time was 3.00.
We didn’t mess about on field paths low down, just walked up the quiet lanes until there was access into GrIze Dale. I always enjoy the stroll up this deep wooded valley, today there was only a trickle of water in the beck. The Grizedale Reservoir was the lowest I have ever seen it.
Walking up the gentle side of the hill we started to meet more people, but generally the place was deserted.
That’s not the top.
We stopped at the freshly painted trig point to take in the views over the Bowland hills, the motorway snaking north, Morecambe Bay and the Fylde. That is why most people come up here.
This is.
Down the steep side and into Scorton where we take the lane to the church whose clock now says 5.30.
An innovative sign.
Time for a beer and a Chinese meal back in Garstang. He still didn’t remember the childhood walk but enjoyed the excursion, it’s good to share.
I remember taking my family up there on several occasions, usually reluctantly on their part. I agree with you, that little Grize Dale (OS spelling) has a kind of magic quality all of its own.
It is a favourite family outing for Garstang and Preston people. 4 miles, a pretty vale and a summit from where you may see your house. I hate to using the phrase “what’s not to like?” but it does apply to this walk.
Apparently during lockdown the lanes were blocked with cars.
A long time ago, when this one was technically a trespass, my friend included it in a little self published guide, then got a letter from the local ramblers group, advising him to remove it before he got into trouble with his lordship. 🙂
Is the ‘little self-published guide’ still accessible?
It would be fascinating to see it.
His lordship has now sold out to the dubious wedding venues business.
Sadly not. I think he pulled all the copies for sale and replaced them minus that route. It sounds like it was as you describe here, starting in Scorton. I thought I still had one, which you’d be welcome to but I had a clear out. It’s a marvel anyone can afford to get married now, like they used to do.
Just elope is the advice I offer to my family.
Nice to meet up with family to reminice about old walks, even if only you remembered this one. 🙂 Have been up Nicky Nook once when camping in nearby Scorton. And also tried the Nicky Nook Blue Cheese , which was very nice.
Didn’t know of the Nicky Nook cheese will have to seek it out. I know where it is made in Garstang.
One of the old established Lancashire cheese makers, Singletons of Longridge has just gone into administration with the loss of 100 jobs – hard times.
Hi yes I know about that, it’s so sad and such a shock. My other half was offered a job there in January, luckily he took one elsewhere.
That was lucky for Will.
I love the dog sign, I hope it’s effective 🙂
Yes the area was clean. Humour often has a greater effect than dictatorial.
No more Grandma Singleton’s Tasty Lancashire – one of my favourites! Oh no!
As to the walk – ‘What’s Not to Like?’ – I’m with you on that one. Our kids have been up there, I wonder of they’ll remember in years to come? Some places seem to stick, others less so.
There are still local Lancashire cheese makers in operation.