Cross Bowland Walk


Cross Bowland Walk. Saturday 28th. April 2012

A hired mini bus took our 10 strong group, from Dolpinholme on the west of Bowland, to the start of our walk at Tosside to the east.

We then followed the skyline of the River Hodder, skirting the Gisburn Forest and taking in Whelp Stone Crag, Resting Stone and Great Hill. There was a cold wind blowing from the east, but the important thing was the weather was set fair and the views in either direction were excellent.

Now heading almost due west over Bowland Knotts, we crossed the Keasden Road at it’s high point and continued our walk on rough moorland, over Raven’s Castle to our lunch stop, by the roadside, at the Cross of Greet.

(Click on pictures to view)

The day was now getting warmer and the spells of sunshine more frequent, as we took in the trig. point at White Hill. More rough ground before dropping down to the ancient Hornby Road and up again, now on a path, to or afternoon brew stop among nesting gulls on Wolfhole Crag. From there it was nearly all downhill to Tarnbrook, where we joined the Wyre Way, which we followed, bathed in sunshine, to the finish back in Dolphinholme.

The route in total is around 24 miles and does not have lengthy ascents. It should not be under estimated though, as much of it is quite rough going and very much exposed to the elements. We were lucky as the weather was favourable and even the prevailing west wind had given way to a helpful easterly.

Thanks to Jeff for planning the walk and to Dave for taking over on the day, due to Jeff’s enforced absence.