Walk Leader: Karen

Number on walk: 18

Distance: 13 miles

Weather: Heavy hail showers in parts

We set off walking through Cuerden valley and then Whittle-le-Woods before climbing up to the World War 2 defence installation on Lucas Green. We stopped here for a short gathering before moving on to join the Lancaster canal off Town Lane which took us onto the Leeds Liverpool canal. We followed the canal past Top Lock. There was a lot of canal workings taking place on this section which had been totally drained as they appeared to be installing new locks. A little bit further on, just before we left the canal, we met a very interesting man who worked for the Canal and River trust. His job was basically to walk stretches of canal in the north west to identify maintenance work.  Ideal job for Neil who loves his canals!

Once we left the canal the ground conditions deteriorated rapidly and we were soon plodding through extremely muddy fields heading for Brinscall Hall.  As we passed,  one of many very heavy hail showers hit us so we quickly moved on to Brinscall park where we stopped by the lake for our lunch.

We then followed the Nature Trail to Withnell where we turned heading north to Withnell Fold.  We joined the canal again for a short while before crossing more very muddy fields through Brenworth Fold Farm and on up to Top o' th' Lane.

The sky had now brightened and there were great views from here now north looking over to Preston, Blackpool and the Forest of Bowland.

From here the going was much easier as we followed roads back to our cars. Once back,  it was then tea / coffee and cakes for everyone and it was great end to a walk to have a 'cuppa and chat'. 

Thanks to everyone who turned up, despite the weather it was a good day.   

Photos can be seen 'here'