Wednesday, 25th September 2013

Walk: Watery Gate, Blindhurst, Bleasdale School & Church, Hazelhurst, Clough Heads Bridge, Wickins Barn and Beacon Fell Country Park
Start Point: Quarry Car Park, Beacon Fell Country Park Grid Reference: SD 573 426
Distance: 8.75 miles Ascent: 220 feet
Time: 4.5 hours    
Weather: Low cloud over the nearby fells with an occasional burst of sunshine
Comments: The walk was in the form of a figure of eight. The reason being that the intended route had footpath problems, for example, a large gap between a river bank and footbridge. The route was on field paths, lanes and private roads. Dropping down from Blindhurst (Farm) the group passed over land of Lower Fair Snape Farm where the habitat is being managed with wildlife in mind. See,  www.ruralfutures.co.uk/casestudies/bleasdale. After a break at St Eadmer's Church at Bleasdale, the route continued in a circular fashion to take in a private estate with private roads/footpath to return to Bleasdale Village Hall for a late lunch.
The group were informed that the local primary school has sixteen pupils. Returning via Wickins Barn the group headed back up Beacon Fell to the start point. On the route is an option to visit Bleasdale Circle, (A Bronze Age Timber Circle). See, www.forestofbowland.com.  Twenty three people enjoyed a nice walk in a pleasant part of Lancashire. Unfortunately low cloud/mist hid the local fells from view.

Scroll down to see photos of the walk

A very muddy approach to a stile

 

The creators of the mud look on while ramblers struggle through

 

Not enough to make a pie

 

St Eadmer's Church at Bleasdale

 

Beech nuts at Bleasdale

 

A short optional walk - A Bronze Age Timber Circle

 

Twenty two ramblers approaching Admarsh Barn Farm

 

A pack-horse bridge at Brooks

 

Regrouping after lunch at Bleasdale Village Hall

 

A recently planted wood named after a daughter of the farmer

 

I'm looking for somewhere to hibernate

 

Ascending to Beacon Fell from Sagars Farm

 

A hazy Parlick Pike

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