The group are ready to go at Hurst Green                                                                                               Stonyhurst College

Hurst Green Circular via Ribchester

24 of us turned left out of the village hall car park and made our way pass the Shireburn Arms pub down to the River Ribble, via Trough House and Coppy Scar Wood. We walked along the Ribble Way, which included some road walking, to Stydd Lane, on the outskirts of Ribchester. On Stydd Lane we passed the 18th Century Alm Houses and the ancient Stydd Chapel, which belonged to the Knights Hospitallers circa 1300. Onward across fields and crossing Duddel Brook to have lunch at the 17th century Dutton Manor (well, an adjacent field).  We crossed Starling Brook to meet the Longridge Road, which we crossed and took the uphill track on the left to Higher Hud Lee, through the farmyard to cross fields to Greengore and on to Stonyhurst Park, skirting the golf course. Turning left at the course entrance we followed the road round to the right to enter Stonyhurst College, established by the Jesuits who built the chapel and established the college, and crossed in front of its imposing buildings. At the Observatory we took the gateway to cross fields towards St.Joseph's Chapel and School at Hurst Green, following the road back to the car park. It was a dry day. We walked 10 miles and encountered a lot of livestock, endured 21 stiles and had extensive views of the Ribble Valley.  Our 5 guests enjoyed the walk, so hopefully some new members there.

Jean and Brian Moat.

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