| Walk: | Little Mearley Hall, Hookcliffe, Downham, Worsaw Hill and Worston | ||
| Start Point: | The Calf's Head, Worston | Grid Reference: | SD 767 427 |
| Distance: | 5.5 miles | Ascent: | 650 feet |
| Time: | 3 hours | ||
| Weather: | Rain, sleet and rather cold | ||
| Comments: | On a gloomy and wet winters morning approximately thirty ramblers left the warmth of their cars and joined Ian on a venture around Witch Country. Like the skies above the land was full of water making it an interesting walk. The stiles were very slippery and the muddy ground tried to suck ones boots off. The scenery was quite spectacular in its winter attire even though it did disappear from time to time as snow showers fell. Pendle Hill was taking on a covering of thin snow and because of the conditions all Broomsticks had to be grounded. Having spent time drinking coffee and singing carols in the corner of a field the group returned via Downham. Here, some of the ladies (chaperoned) were amused to see how the gents toilet had been converted (see photograph). The last part of the journey took the party past a barn that featured in “Whistle Down the Wind” and Worsaw Hill. Arriving back at the Calf’s Head the group discreetly changed, in cars, from ringing wet walking gear into their finery before partaking of an excellent meal. Thanks to Ian for leading the walk and to Terry for arranging the Christmas Meal. | ||
Scroll down to see photos of the walk
Preparing for the start
The Worston lambs but one year older
Christmas is coming the geese are getting fat
The first of many slippery stiles
An arched footbridge over Mearley Brook
Pendle Hill with just a hint of snow
Wet ramblers with the Clitheroe Cement works landmark in the distance
Another view of Pendle Hill
Hook Cliffe
A little easier underfoot
Time for coffee and carols
Jeanette in full voice . . .
assisted by Caroline's carolers
No takers yet for Grand Designs
Converted pens at Downham
The hungry horde head back to Worston for their Christmas Meal
A murky Pendle - all Broomsticks grounded today