Tag Archives: Bowland

BULLSTONES BOULDERING GUIDE.

The Bullstones.

If you have no interest in climbing or bouldering, read no further.

I originally started this blog to provide information on climbing and bouldering venues in the area, and then became sidetracked with other topics.

A new BMC Lancashire Climbing guide will soon be available. Also, a Lancashire Bouldering guide will be making an appearance — http://www.lancashirebouldering.com/

Going back to the start of this century, Alan Bates and I had a great time exploring the extensive boulders above Croasdale — The Bullstones. There was no record of previous climbing here, and indeed access had been denied until the CRoW act came along in 2000. Along with other friends, who were prepared for the one-hour walk in, we documented about 300 problems. Robin Mueller’s excellent bouldering guide will have a chapter detailing a few selected areas of Bullstones, including new harder problems. I am also making available below my original 2003 guide, warts and all, for full coverage of the area, including all the easier problems.

It has only taken me 100 posts to do so!

THE BULLSTONES pdf1 —- click to view

*****

Mark finishing ‘Take the bull by the horns’

A sunny afternoon stroll near Chipping.

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In an effort to get fit for a forthcoming Spanish GR7 trek I had a couple of hard days walking at the weekend and am now suffering in the toe and hip. Cracking up. Decided not to make things worse by going to the climbing wall today. A new waterproof arrived this morning to replace the one which disintegrated last year in Spain. Alas, despite being a bargain, it proved to be too tight a fit and had to be returned. The company I bought it from had no larger sizes so I had a quick trawl on the internet for a replacement, found one and ordered, but at an extra £25. Sent back the small one and hope the larger is delivered soon. I’m very impressed with the efficiency of mail order these days. Lots of people going round in vans!

So it was lunchtime before I knew it. The day started very cold but sunny and looked to be continuing the same way. A quick lunch and a drive out to Chipping. Decided on a gentle stroll to ease my joints. Walked out on a concessionary path in the grounds of Leagram Hall. Pendle looked impressive with a sprinkling of snow.

Pendle.

Walked up a lane past a sheep farm advertising Sheep’s Cheese.

Quite tasty so have come home with some. Here are the new lambs…

Walking on up to Park Gate farm you are under the Fairsnape/Totridge fells. Whoever thought to plant squares of conifers on these hillsides?

One passes remote working farms in the hills where life hasn’t changed much in the last 50 years –

Despite being surrounded by peaty gritstone fells this little area of Bowland is limestone with characteristic knolls and outcrops of the white stuff. There are little quarries everywhere and small kilns which produced lime for the land. In other areas of the valley commercial kilns served the blossoming building trade.

Flocks of returning birds were landing in the fields aptly demonstrating their two common names – lapwing and peewit. Unable to get a photo, so this will have to do – cautionary sign in any case.

Walked on past the pleasantly named, renovated hamlet of Dinkling Green, with its magnificent situation below the Totridge Fells.

Lanes through the limestone knots lead to the splendidly isolated and landmark red phone box near Lickurst Farm. How long will it survive in these days of mobile phones?

On past Higher Greystonely Farm where I was hoping for a brew with friends, who were unfortunately not at home. A lane takes you over a ford and on past a significant lime kiln near an extensive limestone quarry.

Soon back on the lane to Chipping and feeling very satisfied with the afternoon’s excursion. A hot soothing bath will get all those muscles relaxed ready for the exertions to come in Catalonia.

BOWLAND HISTORIC RAMBLE AND RANT.

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Sunny Wednesday was a day made for the hills. After several dull and damp days recently, often spent laboriously at a climbing wall, it was good to be driving out to Bowland. I parked in the small village of Dunsop Bridge, which has been designated as at the centre of the Great Britain. The 100,000th BT phone box, on the green, proclaims this. Parking is now pay and display but £1 for 4hours didn’t seem extortionist, and Ribble Valley Borough Council seem to be keeping the place tidy. I do however feel these pay and display machines seem out of place in countryside car parks. They are everywhere now and I’m not sure what one does if needing an overnight stay for an extended camping trip.

The walk I set off on today is partly one of the sections of my Longridge Skyline Walk, see previous posts, leading out of the Hodder Valley over the little trodden Kitcham Hill on Birkett Fell.

Crossing the Hodder by a bridge brings you to the houses of Thorneyholme opposite where the river Dunsop joins the Hodder. A delightful stroll south by the river soon had me in good spirits, with clear views over to Totridge Fell and Mellor Knoll. Despite the ground frost the ground was still fairly boggy.

Totridge Fell and Mellor Knoll across the Hodder.

Soon I was climbing alongside a beck in Fielding Clough above Burholme, despite the low air temperature I was soon sweating in the sunshine. The rough climb in heather, up alongside the wall, onto Kitcham Hill [283m] made things worse and I was glad of a break at the top to admire the 360degree views and get my breath back. The top is marked with a few stones near a stunted lone pine. I always enjoy time spent up here enjoying the peace and wandering in the pine and beech trees surrounding the summit. Today a pair of buzzards were crying and circling above me. Ingleborough and Penyghent were just visible in the haze to the north.

From the hill top I went south on rough ground, this whole area is access land created under the 2000 CRoW act, see the latest OS maps for areas covered. As one reaches the plantation to the south the access land finishes 200m before a public right of way/footpath. This is one of the annoying anomalies of some areas of access land – you end up trespassing to get out of them! Not that worries me as I end up climbing walls to reach the footpath into the plantation. Already, though, because of this problem I feel a little annoyed. Will write to Ribble Valley about it.

Looking back to Kitcham Hill.

Once onto the public footpath things get worse, there have been a lot of trees blown down, presumably this last winter, making the path almost impossible to follow by most people. My climbing skills were needed to force a way through. Another letter to the Ribble Valley.

Jungle

Once through, at great risk to my appendages, there is a lovely stretch across open hillside with views to the north. I was now approaching Crimpton Farm and was confronted with signs suggesting a rather lengthy, muddy, diversion around the premises but in small print stating that the right of way still existed onto the lane through the ‘farm’. Now I knew this property was of historic and architectural interest and used the right of way to look at it. After the reformation a wooden image of Our Lady Of White Well was brought to the isolated Crimpton for safety. Hence, the farm was well known to Roman Catholics as ‘Our Lady Of The Fells’. Apparently there is also a sulphur spa here with miraculous healing powers, so the locality has historic importance. Also the building is grade 2 listed with interesting seven hand loom weaving windows. I ask why a diversion is being suggested, apparently with official approval, away from this important house. A third letter to Ribble Valley!!

I would ask that anyone else following this public right of way ignores any suggestion of diversion and writes to the authorities in protest. John Dixon in his excellent Aussteiger Guide book to Bowland is of the same persuasion. Such was my anguish that I forgot to photo the interesting house and the parked up obligatory Range Rover! While on my high horse how did they get planning permission for the ‘porch’ extension on a GRADE 2 LISTED BUILDING. I have little faith in the planning authorities.

Crimpton. John Dixon

Progressing onto the old Roman road across Marl Hill I took off to the left on a wild path down to Birkett Farm and down to Giddy Bridge over the brook. What was the purpose of the stone projections on either side below the bridge?

Giddy Bridge

Now I was able to follow a well signed concessionary path through the grounds of Knowlmere Manor [a contrast to the restrictions at Crimpton]. Try counting the chimneys on the manor….

Knowlmere Manor

Onwards in the sunshine brought me above the Hodder River back to Thorneyholme where I came across a chain saw massacrer [artist] working on a tree stump to create a Rodin masterpiece. A lengthy chat ensured about art, recession, medicine and the state of the world. This bloke is very talented.

Masterpiece in the making.

Back through the tall Wellington Pine avenue gets me to the car within the 4hour, £1, fee!! It shouldn’t have to be like this. A day of stunning scenery and spring weather to hopefully come. But there are some sour tastes left regarding access. I’ll get over it.

LONGRIDGE FELL _ ON MY DOORSTEP.

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Sunday. What a beautiful day dawned – cold, clear and sunny. Perfect for walking. Hadn’t arranged anything with my walking mates so after a lengthy caffeine top up I decided on a full traverse of Longridge Fell. Able to do this from my doorstep! This is the definitive full crossing of the fell starting in Longridge itself. The route I did today includes parts of previous posted walks and is the last leg of The Longridge Skyline Walk in reverse. [see posts – Tolkien Country. Crosses, Stoneyhurst and the Hodder. Fungi on the fell. Longridge Skyline Walk.]

Set off up the road out of Longridge past the golf course for a couple of miles to the parking spot at Cardwell House. Here took to the fell on a pathway marked with small stone pillars.

Onto Longridge fell

This traverses nicely above the Thornley Valley and then rises gently to the wall leading up to Longridge Fell trig point. Several people were already up there admiring the views – wish I had been up earlier as the Three Peaks were in good clear visibility then.

Longridge Fell trig point in the distance.

From the trig point the way goes along a forest road and then dives into the woods on a clear path.

This path continues along the ridge meeting up with the forest road further on and then arrives at Sam’s View Point overlooking the Hodder Valley and the Bowland Hills.

Carrying on along the ridge you enter forest again on a muddy path with no views, today was eerily quiet.

Towards the end of this section there is a large area where the trees have been felled and already after a couple of years thousands of natural pine seedlings have sprung up like a miniature bonsai forest.

The path continues clearly down the ridge to emerge onto the road at Kemple End with its views of Clitheroe and Pendle. The gateway onto the road has had its metal gate stolen, as have several others in the area, presumably for scrap. To complete the traverse I walked down the road to Higher Hodder bridge at the base of the fell. From here one can make your way back in fields either north or south of the fell. Today I chose the latter and walked through the grounds of Stonyhurst College and into Hurst Green.

Spring is in the air.

Called in at The Bayley Arms for a pint and a rest before dropping down an old lane to the delightful Dean Brook. The presence of at least two old bobbin mills bear witness to the cottage-industry that was once here.

The path goes over an old bridge and up a bridal way to the 17 th century Greengore hunting lodge with its abutments and camping barn.

Soon the road on the fell is reached and access to a lane leading back up onto Longridge Fell. There was an interesting photo as I reached the top road.

Maybe the farmers don’t know the difference between beef and horse!!! Topical problem in the news at present. From here it is all downhill to Longridge itself and completed a rewarding traverse of Longridge Fell. On the way down a tree is passed that gives an idea of the prevailing winds.

It’s grim up north.

*****

LONGRIDGE SKYLINE WALK.

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Today was cold but sunny so there was no excuse not to get out in the countryside. All the snow from last weekend had disappeared, though this morning’s frost had firmed up the fields.

There have been some recent footpath diversions north of Longridge and these were affecting a route of mine, The Longridge Skyline Walk. I therefore took the opportunity to walk some of these paths to update my route description.

Parlick with Fairsnape brooding in the background.: Having brought my route description up to date I felt it was time to re-publicise this excellent route. I would love to see one of you keen fell walkers complete the circuit in a day! Here is my original, rather lengthy article………; LONGRIDGE SKYLINE WALK.; Standing anywhere in the Loud Valley [The Vale of Chipping] north of Longridge one is aware of the beautiful surrounding scenery. Out to the west is space towards the coast but the remaining skyline consists of hills. Starting in the northwest is the well known Beacon Fell, and going clockwise around the horizon are Parlick, Fairsnape, Totridge, Birkett, Waddington and Longridge Fells. You will notice that these hills are all named using the northern word Fell, it is an interesting fact that Longridge Fell is the most southerly named fell in Britain.
Skyline and horseshoe walks have a fascination and draw for fell walkers, think of the many well known examples in our mountainous regions. They are usually fairly obvious in conception and provide a ready made visual and physical challenge. So it was for me, for many years living within sight of this round, and I have taken up its challenge on several occasions in the past, from the 70’s onwards. I soon realised the beauty, variety, relative isolation and rewarding views this walk provides.
However there was always a problem with my rounds, I was often trespassing! Large tracts of the moorland areas in the east were private, often with shooting interests, with limited rights of way. So the walk was for private consumption only, but always very satisfying allowing one knowledge of these ’hidden secrets’ of our northern hills.
However times change and with the implementation of the CRoW act nearly all the walk was either on Public Rights of Way or the newly created Access Areas. With the publication of O.S.maps showing the newly opened areas I was able to revisit more freely some areas of the walk and realised that a challenging circuit was now more feasible in design and description, if still no easier in physical execution.; Thus the 60Km / 37.5miles Longridge Skyline Walk [LSW] was reborn.; Much of the Forest of Bowland is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and rightly so. Hence many areas are well known to walkers and country lovers alike, but you will find following this round many new corners to be enthralled by and whole areas of rough fell rarely walked in the last few decades. When were you last on Kitcham Hill or Waddington Fell?
Bowland’s diverse landscape – heather moorland, blanket bogs, wooded valleys and lowland farms – make not only for interesting walking but also provide a rich habitat for flora and fauna. The area is nationally renowned for its upland birds, so providing one with an opportunity of sighting many species on the walk. Red Grouse, Golden Plover, Lapwing, Curlew, Short Eared Owl, Ring Ouzel, Redshank, Merlin, Peregrine, Kestrel and the Hen Harrier. The latter has become the symbol of The Forest of Bowland. Take a small pair of binoculars.
By the nature of the ground to be covered, this walk should not be undertaken lightly, access land in the AONB offers some of the roughest and most remote walking in Lancashire. A sound experience of rough fell walking and the relevant navigational skills are needed. Several miles are trackless and heavy going in the peat bogs. These areas are particularly difficult in the wetter months and are possibly best avoided at those times, not only for your progress but to lessen damage to the fragile terrain. Clear weather is a must really to help with navigation and to enable you to fully enjoy the outstanding views that the walk provides. The access areas may have seasonal restrictions which will be posted locally or found in advance from the usual sources. [Try Lancashire County Council] It would not be possible to take dogs on the whole route.
If the walk is started in Longridge the village of Dunsop Bridge makes a good halfway stopover if split into two days. There are limited bus services in the rural areas but Dunsop Bridge is serviced from Clitheroe. Other smaller stages over three or four days can be planned with the limited B&B accommodation in the area. Completing the walk within a day would be a severe challenge for the fittest of walkers and maybe not the best way to appreciate the scenery. There are a few refreshment stops notably Beacon Fell Visitor Centre, Dunsop Bridge Café/PO, Bashall Barn and of course Longridge itself.; Longridge — Beacon Fell. 10km / 6m
Starting from the Millennium Cross in Longridge one is soon out into the countryside with early views of the skyline task ahead. After a short stretch of road walking the route goes onto a series of pleasant paths through farming land, both arable and stock. The agricultural changes in recent years are evident with the loss of hedges, expensive barn conversions, diversification with fishing lakes and a new golf course. As the ground rises to Beacon Fell views open up across the Fylde. Beacon Fell was opened in 1970 as one of Lancashire’s first Country Parks and has proved very popular with its easy access and good tracks suitable for all. The information centre is worth a visit as you pass on the way to the summit [266m] with its viewfinder. This summit is the first of the day and hopefully the weather will be clear for the extensive views.
Beacon Fell — Fairsnape Fell. 7km / 4.5m
Northwards the land now begins to change to rougher pastures approaching the higher fells, again the paths are clear and fairly well used. A wonderful area in spring for the sound and sight of Lapwings. Soon the bulk of Parlick is in front of you, but a winding old peat-sledge track takes you up the quieter side of the fell. The area is popular for gliding, parapenting and model planes so there is usually something in the sky to keep you distracted on the climb. Once at the top the fells stretch out before you and a good walking surface, enjoy it while you can, enables an easy section up to Fairsnape Fell with its shelters and trig point [510m] although the true summit [520m] is further on to the northeast.
Fairsnape Fell — Dunsop Bridge. 10.5km / 6.5m
The enjoyment of the next couple of hours along the ridge to Totridge Fell [496m] will depend on recent rainfall. Although there is a fence to guide you most of the way do not underestimate the difficulty underfoot and detours around the worst peat bogs are unavoidable. On a day of good visibility this is an exhilarating stretch with views to the Lakeland Hills, the vast uninhabited area of desolate fells to the north, the Three Peaks area, Pendle and the Lancastrian Fells to the south. The last legs of this walk over Waddington and Longridge Fells become clear. At the end of the ridge the beauty of the Hodder below you can be appreciated before the steep descent into the valley. The Trough of Bowland road can be busy at weekends but fields lead past a pheasant breeding farm to follow the River Dunsop into the village by its bridge. This a popular destination and after the solitude of the fells the number of trippers can come as quite a surprise, but the ice cream is great!
Don’t forget to look at the unique telephone box celebrating being at the centre of Great Britain.
Dunsop Bridge — Waddington Fell. 9.5km / 6m
This section of the walk covers new ground for most people and being trackless in parts will feel longer than the map suggests. It starts pleasantly along by the idyllic Hodder and then climbs to the exquisite wind blown, untrodden and heather clad top of Kitcham Hill [283m] From here rough moors are crossed to emerge through trees at the historic farm of Crimpton [Our Lady of the Fells] More rough trackless ground is crossed over Marl Hill [311m] heading for the mast [if you can see it!] on Waddington Fell. At one point navigation is helped by an old ditch once serving as a deer boundary for the important Browsholme Estate. Reaching the summit of Waddington Fell [395m] is a relief and most of the harder work is behind you. Once again you have stunning views from an unusual angle particularly good westwards down the length of the valley you have navigating round.
Waddington Fell — Higher Hodder Bridge. 9.5km / 6m
Downhill all the way! From the trig point you follow the obvious ridge southwards by the wall and continue down the mapped access area until it stops 0.5km short of the next Public Right of Way. Having overcome this problem field paths lead to the delightful Talbot Bridge, on past an old packhorse bridge and close to the old Bashall Hall. Soon you will be enjoying refreshments in Bashall Barn, the type of farm diversity I appreciate. More field paths bring you to The Higher Hodder Bridge.
Higher Hodder Bridge — Longridge Fell. 5.5km / 3.5m
A short stretch by the River Hodder and then you climb up to Kemple End a well known viewpoint over the Ribble Valley and Pendle. Now for a contrast you enter the sometimes gloomy forest leading uphill. Clearings are reached overlooking the Loud and Hodder valleys for relief until eventually you reach the final top of Longridge Fell [350m]. From the trig point enjoy the views northwards of patchwork fields below and the background of the route you have followed.
Longridge Fell — Longridge. 8km / 5m
The long descent to complete the round. If you have been blessed with good weather you will be able see Snowdonia ahead and pick out the Isle of Man Hills across Morecambe Bay with a background of the setting sun. Or then again it may be raining! Following the very edge of the fell you will come to the road at Jeffrey Hill car park. Here there are interesting information boards about the area. There is the suggestion that the river Ribble may have reached the sea through the vale of Chipping at one time, being diverted by glacial deposits to it’s present more circuitous route to the south of Longridge Fell. The road has to be followed past the golf course for a couple of kilometres until you can take field paths towards Longridge. Near the end join the route of the old railway line which took stone from the extensive quarries to supply many Lancashire cities. Soon you are back at the Millennium Cross and maybe enjoying a pint in the Townley Arms reflecting on the last 60km!; Contact me if you would like detailed directions.

CIRCLING BLEASDALE.

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CIRCLING BLEASDALE.

One of my old time favourite short walks, when the tops are out of condition or when accompanied by young children, is the circuit of the Bleasdale Estate under Fairsnape. This provides walks of between 4 and 7 miles on mainly surfaced tracks – great for baby buggies!

Been cooped up the last three of weeks with a tight chest brought on by one of those winter bugs – visits to doctors and hospital make you feel your age! Meanwhile we’ve had some snow, not much, but it looks good. Trips to the climbing walls have been hard work as I was out of breath most of the time. So today when the sun shone I decided on the fresh air cure.

Parked up near the start of the private road into Bleasdale. There used to be a post office and cafe here not that many years ago, its gone now and all that’s left is a post box and an old telephone box. Didn’t check if it still had a phone!

Bleasdale Box

Despite the loss of it’s PO the scattered farming community of Bleasdale still has a primary school, church and a parish hall. These are all accessed by the road I’m walking up. First is the C of E school, built in 1850 and since extended.

Opposite is the parish hall and further up the lane is the church dedicated to the unusual St. Eadmer. There has been a church on this site since 1577 and services are still provided by the Fellside Team Ministry.

But the most important historical vestige of the area is the Bleasdale Circle. This is reached by concessionary field paths opposite Vicarage Farm and is seen as a clump of trees on the fellside. The circle[s] are bronze age and were originally oak posts, an outer and inner ring. Discovered in 1898 and subsequently excavated they yielded a central burial chamber with cremation urns and ashes. These are now on display in the Harris Museum in Preston. The inner ring of wooden posts have been replaced with concrete posts. The orientation of the posts within the circle of the Bleasdale hills may suggest some deep reason for their siting here. I doubt we will never know.

Continuing up the icy track into the heart of the fells was a test for my newly purchased ‘Magic Spikers’. These strap on spikes are designed to prevent slipping on icy surfaces and were bought on impulse yesterday. Have been meaning to get some following a life and death crossing of a frozen Pyrenees a couple of years ago [crampons would have been better] – only a little extra traction makes all the difference. At first use not sure about there effectiveness as the spikes are only at the front. But when I removed one from my right boot I soon realised what a difference they had being making in terms of not slipping. Will certainly use again if we have icy conditions on our pavements and roads. They are easily fitted over boots or shoes.Other makes are available.

Walked through several isolated farm yards on the estate roads, always with the background of the wintry Bowland fells and good views up to the evocatively named Fiendsdale Head.

Now approaching the extensive buildings of Bleasdale Tower estate, these appear to be totally dedicated at the ‘sport’ of shooting, all well maintained. They advertise activity days, at a price, revolving round the hunting theme. There is a choice here of a quick return via the packhorse bridge, Brooks Bridge, but as the day was fine decided to continue on past Bleasdale Tower residence itself on the estate road. There is an old GR post box in the wall here.

Continuing past Fell End and onto the Delph Lane [there are lots of little quarries on this lane – hence the name]. The Views out to the Fylde were masked by haze. As I walked down the lane I noticed a gate on the left which gave access to a previously unknown permissive bridleway through the fields to Broadgate Farm with good views to Parlick and Fairsnape. The farm lane brought me onto Bleasdale Lane for a brisk stroll back to my car. This goes alongside the best maintained beech hedge I know.

Full circle!

Walk your paths … if you can.

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Here is an extract from a letter I had published in a local paper a few years ago at this time of year–

WALK YOUR PATHS.

Regular physical exercise is recognised to be highly beneficial to us all, young and old. Gyms have sprung up everywhere and seem to be popular, at least a month or two after Xmas. However a brisk walk is as good a general exercise as any and it’s free and has little impact on the environment. We are fortunate to be within easy access of The Lakes and The Pennines which have a wonderful variety of footpaths, but is it really necessary to have to travel [usually by car] on our crowded roads.

Within a few miles radius of Longridge there are literally hundreds of Public Rights Of Way, all interconnecting and reached from your front door. Walks can be planned from a couple of miles into the teens depending on you desire and time available. Most of the footpaths have been there for hundreds of years and are thus of historic importance to our locality.

The local network of paths is generally well maintained and signed, some [but not all!] farmers having made a particular effort in this direction. Several local walks are included in popular guide books and there is an excellent series of leaflets published locally and widely available. The 1:25000 OS maps show all the paths in detail and any amount of walking circuits can be devised.

So why are there so few people using the local paths? I rarely meet anyone off the roads. These paths need to be walked to preserve our unique national heritage. Come on you people of Longridge try a few of the field paths and you will be amazed at the amount of beautiful scenery and nature on your doorstep. Your health will benefit and the paths will survive into another century. Hope to see you out there.

Since that letter was written I think that more people are walking as a form of exercise and I do now meet more groups on our paths, so that is good. But the downside is in the last couple of years the wet weather, which has left our fields waterlogged. These last few months it has been no joy to walk in the local fields [see my posts] and even I have recently spent a few days walking on the local quiet roads, fortunately quite scenic, avoiding the mud and deep puddles.

Is it that the rainy climate is going to stay with us and if so what is the viability of some of our paths? I only hope I don’t have to write a letter in the next few years urging people to Walk Our Roads!

View from the road.

God help us.

Thought I saw this deer today, running across the fields below Beacon Fell…

…maybe not. I did see deer but not the red-nosed variety. Nobody else about, in view of the dreadful conditions underfoot. Walked out of Longridge through the fields but soon realised how wet they were when I came across foot deep water. We have however been much luckier, in this region, than many, in avoiding serious flooding of properties. Must be dreadful to have your house inundated with water. The Met Office says that it has been the wettest year since records started, but not necessarily a harbinger of doom for next year.

Carried on up the fellside with wet feet, knowing that there would be refreshments available in the wonderful café at Beacon Fell visitor centre. The car park was packed, people obviously were wanting to stretch their legs after the Xmas binge. Sat with a warming cup of coffee.

I was fascinated to read about the tagged flights of Betty, the Hen Harrier from Bowland. She had flown hundreds of miles up to Scotland and back in search of a partner but then sadly disappeared in North Yorks.
It has now been confirmed that she has been shot and perished in Yorkshire. Having previously watched these beautiful birds in Bowland I find it deeply depressing that this is the fate that may await them. Why??

This comes in the same week that MPs are wondering about trying to revoke the hunting with dogs legislation. Hopefully, this will never happen. There should be no encouragement shown to the shooting /hunting element of our society.

Meanwhile, in the States, there has been another tragic mass shooting, this time involving many young children. My thoughts go out to their families. Come on now Mr Obama, surely there must be a way to tighten up on your gun regulations. Are the National Rifle Association real?

So it all seems a little, if not a lot depressing. Following on from the joys of Xmas I’m not happy about the state of our world. Maybe the ‘Turneresque’ view of the clouds could improve things as I walked back down the drier lanes to home.

But no —

–hanging in the wind was a little reminder of the selfishness of some dog owners of our world. God help us!!!

BEACON FELL – Views and Sculptures

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Following days of heavy rain, and serious floods in other parts of the country, today was forecast to be sunny, cold and dry. This proved this to be correct. After a mornings work I was keen to make the best of the afternoon. A quick trip up to ‘Craig Y Longridge’ showed me there was still too much seepage for bouldering so I decided on a short walk on and around Beacon Fell. The tracks up there would at least be better than the sodden fields elsewhere. I can see Beacon Fell from the back of my house and subconsciously check it out for clear weather most days.

Beacon Fell

Today was perfect. In the summer months I have often used a circular walk through fields from home up to Beacon Fell and back. These tracks are a small part of my Longridge Skyline Walk which takes in Beacon Fell, Parlick, Fairsnape-Totridge, Kitcham Hill, Waddington Fell and Longridge Fell, a round of over 60k. More of that another time.

Beacon Fell has been a Country Park since 1970. The good visibility of the fell made it a good location for warning beacons. These have been recorded for nearly a thousand years. Until the beginning of the last century it was rough farmland and then was acquired in 1909 by Fulwood Council as a water supply. Water was collected in Barnsfold Reservoir and from there piped to Fulwood via Horns Dam and Haighton. Conifers were planted to help drainage. After 1959, no longer required for water, it was left unattended until acquired by Lancs County Council and opened as an early Country Park. It seems to have gained in popularity ever since.

At 266 metres (873 ft) above sea level, small compared with the neighbouring fells, its position offers commanding views over the flat plain of The Fylde and Morecambe Bay to the west, the Bowland Hills to the North as well as the Pendle, Longridge Fell and the Ribble valley to the south-east. On clear days, as today, the Welsh hills, the Lakeland Fells and the Isle Of Man are visible.

Bowland Visitor Centre

The park is well served with a welcoming visitor centre and cafe, open all year. From these car parks tracks wander all over the fell and forest. Pick up a leaflet if you are unfamiliar with the area. Today I was keen to climb to the top for the views but decided to seek out along the way a series of sculptures by local artist Thompson Dagnall. The first is just above the centre, Orme Sight, a grotesque face with a drill hole sighting through his eye onto the N. Wales coast.

Orme Sight

As you walk up through the trees you come across the Walking Snake, a remarkable 50ft long, winding, wooden snake which kids love to balance along until they come eye to eye with head!

Walking Snake

Close by is an unusual use of trees uprooted and ‘replanted’ upside down to create the Spruced up Heron. I think this has changed from its original and now gives the impression of the bird part buried in an inverted position. Needs a new name.

Spruced up Heron

Unfortunately the Hanging Bat in trees near the top of the fell has been dismantled because of rotting timbers and won’t reappear. Further down the fell you may find the scary Black Tiger and Kissing Seat.

Black Tiger Kissing Seat

Anyhow, to get back to the top of the fell and the trig point there were a gaggle of people staring out at the very clear views to the west.

Where is it?

As it says ‘on the tin’ there were commanding views in all directions — I don’t think I’ve seen them so clear! Snow on the Lakeland tops, lots more wind turbines in the Irish Sea, Isle Of Man looking very close and some heights to its left in the distance — must have been Northern Ireland. Unable with my camera to capture this scene, but no problem with the closer and impressive Bowland Fells of Fairsnape and Parlick, Waddington Fell, Pendle and Longridge Fell.

Pendle and Longridge Fell

I continued my walk around the northern slopes of the fell, on past the pond with lots of ducks and through avenues of spruce back to the Visitor Centre. Interesting displays about Bowland and surroundings took my attention. In particular photos of lime kilns in the Chipping area, the volunteers manning the display were knowledgeable and interesting to talk to. By the time I emerged the sun was going down low over the Welsh hills, giving a fittingly beautiful view to end the day. Looking just like a watercolour wash.

The Clwyd Hills.

So a wonderful afternoon, some of the clearest views I’ve seen from here, a sculpture trail and added interest from the Bowland Visitor Centre. Did I mention you could see Blackpool Tower?

Looks good for tomorrow too ……..

PPS Have a look at my May 2014 post http://bowlandclimber.com/2014/05/20/beacon-bivi/  for more sculptures on Beacon Fell.

Heart of Bowland – Croasdale. Bullstones bouldering.

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The forecast was good for today, cold with lots of sun. Letting the ice melt from my car I set off to drive leisurely to Slaidburn with the thought of some bouldering high in Croasdale. Lovely blue skies were overhead as I left Cow Ark and motored over Marl Hill, but the usual view of Ingleborough never appeared. Always a joy to drop into the picturesque village of Newton.

Newton village

There were some road blockages in Slaidburn so I was forced to start walking further from my destination than I’d intended. Strange that when one is going climbing, parking as near as possible to the crag becomes imperative. Within a few minutes of setting off the day seemed to change, the sky darkening with definite rain in the air. Didn’t see that in the forecast!

Walked up the Hornby Road [Salter Fell track] that goes over to Wray eventually. This follows the former Roman Road from Ribchester to Lancaster, so has probably been in use for 2000 years. A few years ago this route was getting heavily eroded by the 4×4 brigade but a change-in-use order closed it to such traffic. Some effective restoration work on the worst stretches has made this through route much more pleasant for walkers or mountain bikers. Trail bikes still have access and can be a noisy intrusion, but they are an infrequent incursion. In fact you hardly ever see anybody in higher Croasdale.

Hornby Road and Croasdale Quarry

Hornby Road has had several surfaces added since the Romans were here, and in it’s first mile or so was tarmacked up to Croasdale Quarry. Peregrines nest regularly in this quarry. I’m not sure when this large stone quarry was last used [? stone for the M6] The surface of the road is now showing signs of wear and weathering. The road crosses many streams coming off the fell and the culverts used are said to be from Roman times with the original capstones buried under more modern material. They all seem to be functioning well which says something about the original build quality.

‘Roman’ culvert

As you proceed up the road there are views down to the right to Croasdale Beck, an alternative track comes this way. A shepherd’s hut, with remarkable and extensive sheep folds has been restored by United Utilities, who own the land. This can be seen in the valley bottom. A few years ago I bivied in it for a couple of nights with my young grandson. We spent an hour one evening, spellbound, watching a pair of Hen Harriers quartering in lovely gliding motions over the fellside above us. A rare sight nowadays as the species is on the verge of extinction in England. Bowland has been its stronghold but perceived conflict with Grouse breeding [or should that be shooting?] has reduced numbers. Harriers are ground nesting birds and the wet summer of this year has not been good for them.

Croasdale Bothy and sheep pens.

Carrying on up the now rocky track the boulders I was hoping to play on became visible on the far hillside — marked on the map as Great and Little Bull Stones. The weather was poor by now, with a cold wind and drizzle, so hopes of climbing diminished. As I approached the watershed at 416m there was a herd of Belted Galloway cattle grazing on the rough pasture. These rough haired cattle thrive in windswept moorlands and they are said to produce very tasty beef. Their thick hairy coats are more like a Yak’s than a cow.

Belted Galloway cattle

Soon I was taking my familiar path up to the Bullstones boulders. They are a very extensive group of gritstone boulders spread across the hillside for over a kilometre. A few years ago my friends and I had a concentrated attack on these rocks and produced about 300 bouldering problems. [see THE BULLSTONES pdf1 ] In places the rock and the routes are of the highest quality but in view of their remoteness, an hours walk, few people visit them. That ensures a wonderful wild quality to a day’s bouldering here. Today wasn’t going to be one of them — with low damp cloud and a cold wind. Still I enjoyed my walk along the vague path below the rocks of Great Bull Stones with views first west across to Wolfhole Crag and Lunesdale; and then south-east down Croasdale to Ribblesdale and Pendle.

Pinnacle and Pendle

The fell lies on the southern slope of White Hill, 544m, one of Bowland’s highest hills. The views from this wild spot include Morecambe Bay, the Lake District and a full in your face Yorkshire Three Peaks. Once this whole area was out of bounds on a private grouse moor but since the 2000 CRoW act anyone has free access to wander — few do. It wasn’t worth the trudge up today.

Traversing the hillside I soon came to another group of boulders, nearby is a unique feature on these fells. A large stone trough has been hewn out of an in-situ boulder and left abandoned on the fell. It is about 5ft square and must weigh a ton. What value in a garden centre?

Stone Trough.

I walked below the 25ft tall slabby rocks of Little Bull Stones.

Little Bull Stones.

Arriving at the last boulders — the diminutive Calf Stones. There was a little sunshine and I was by now warmed up with the exertion, so it was on with the rock shoes and a few low problems sorted.

‘Phone Barry’ 4c

Satisfied with the day I set off down the heathery track to cross the ford in Croasdale Beck [a bit more water than I’d bargained for!] and down the Roman road into Slaidburn, arriving at the car just as it was getting dark.

Croasdale beck

Will be back up here on the first decent day!

For further info and a downloadable guide see — https://bowlandclimber.com/2014/02/24/bullstones-bouldering-guide/

and recently someone has posted this video, thanks — https://vimeo.com/183222521

FUNGI ON THE FELL.

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One of my regular walks in winter is on the forest tracks of Longridge Fell. This is what I had in mind for today – a mixture of sun and showers.There is parking at SD 664 396. As you enter the forest you will have to be careful to avoid the piles of dog shit on the first 200m of the forest track!

They must be bursting when let loose. No comment.

Mind the poo!

Today on the radio is news of a fungus attacking ash trees – Chalara die back disease. This fungus is thought to have been brought into Britain on infected stock from Europe. My experience of ash is that it seeds everywhere so why couldn’t we have used indigenous seedlings for our forests?? Too late as it is spreading through Britain.
So it is distressing to find at the start of today’s walk signs warning of Ramorum fungus affecting the larch trees in the forest.

Ramorum fungi

When I first came to live in Longridge in the 70’s the fell was only recently planted up with forestry. As you walk around now you can still see traces of the walls that divided the fell previously. Probably most of the fell had been used for sheep grazing.

Old boundary wall.

There are lots of lovely tracks through the trees.

Longridge Fell track

Continuing on the walk you can arrive at the trig point of Longridge Fell at 350m. From here there are views of Chipping Vale and beyond. Morecambe Bay, the Bowland Fells and the Three Peaks in Yorkshire. A track leads east into the woods and several alternative routes bring you back to your starting point. It’s worth going to Sam’s View on the main track for his view. No idea who Sam was.

Sam’s view.

Continuing now one goes through an area of felled trees. In the past Tilhill forestry have been very conscious of maintaining the environment of the fell with small pockets of tree felling taking place. Now because of Phytophthera ramorum disease they have to fell large areas of trees to try and prevent the spreading of the disease. This has led to some unsightly looking areas on the fell.

Devastation

One hopes that this may be helpful, but as the spores can be transmitted by the wind I have my doubts. The same applies to the ash problem. We didn’t solve the Dutch Elm disease problem! We just lost them. I suspect that the larch and ash diseases are beyond our control now. Maybe better quarantine systems would have helped, but if these fungi are airborne then there is very little we can do about it.

I’m not sure whether all the procedures to eliminate these fungi will have much affect. Will be interesting to return to the fell in 30yrs time, though I don’t think I’ll be around. In the long run nature will take its own course with me and the forest trees.

You can’t change the overall view from the Trig point, thank heavens!

Just get out there and walk the local tracks.

It’s a new dawn, it’s a new day.

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It’s a new dawn, it’s a new day ……….

What a beautiful Saturday morning – this is the view of the Bowland Fells from close to my home. Determined to get a walk in today as the forecast was good. As I said in my last post thinking of of a foreign trekking trip – so I need to get fit. By the time I’d had coffee and done the crossword things had changed – low cloud and drizzle had taken over! Who does these forecasts? I know it must be difficult. Another coffee was needed before making the effort to get going, is that a sign of age?

There was some improvement in the skies so set off after midday. Intended on a round of Saddle Fell, Fairsnape and Parlick, normally park in Chipping and walk up through the fields but in view of the waterlogged ground conditions drove higher up to park at the base of Saddle Fell. This circuit of 6 miles was previously a training run for me with a weighted rucksack, now I’m content with a leisurely afternoon stroll. From the road there is a good farm track up to Saddle End Farm, where the sheep dog had just had a new litter of puppies in the outside shed.

From here you go up through gates onto the open fellside on obvious tracks. I wonder if these were originally for bringing peat down from the tops, there is nothing else up there. Any ideas?

The tranquility of the day was destroyed by the sound of shooting from the Wolfen Estate below. Beaters were traversing an area of rough ground presumably to raise partridges or pheasants to be shot. Do the participants really need to massacre birds for their suppers! I’ll say no more.

As one gains height on a well surfaced path you start to approach the wet peat bogs typical of the Bowland Fells. To avoid the horrendous ‘path’ along the ridge an earlier traversing path is taken on a fairly good surface. If one keeps to this one can avoid the worst of the peat hags. To reach the true summit of Fairsnape Fell at 520+m [359740 447241] you have to leave the good surface and head into the peat bogs. I thought that today that was unjustifiable in the wet conditions, these bogs are dangerous.

Retreating I found another way to the summit on newly established flags ,as you find on the worst excesses of the Pennine Way, some authority has been busy in the last twelve months.

Wonder how long these will stay on the surface in this harsh environment. Now it was plain sailing to the trig point on Fairsnape, and this is where I met the first people of the day. Lots of walkers enjoying the afternoon sunshine, many of them staying in the area for the weekend — good for the local tourist industry.

One could see out to the Fylde coast and pick out Blackpool Tower but the most interest was directed to the glider planes circling the thermals close to the ridge.

At one time there were five gliders whooshing past as I walked down the ridge. Normally there are also lots of paraglders in the air on Parlick, but not today maybe because the wind was too strong. Continued over the ever popular Parlick Fell which gave good views of Pendle and Longridge Fell.

A steep descent down to Fell Foot and a gentle walk through Wolfen Estate brought me back to my car. Have accomplished 6 miles this afternoon and feel much better for it – was worth the effort. How uplifting! Why don’t I do this most days when the opportunity arises, sorry to say I’m getting lazy.

…….. and I’m Feeling Good!!!

Listen to Nina Simone, skip the Ad. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mI3au4KM4xM

Parlick in the Rain.

SUMMER’S END?

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It’s official the wettest summer for a hundred years! Even today a very wet morning in the area.

But just returned from a beautiful Thursday evening’s climbing in Cardwell Quarry. Lovely sunny evening, sunset and a beautiful new moon.

Re-climbed half a dozen quality routes with an old mate. Much cooler. Six others enjoying the evening.