Walk leader Andrew Stachulski (guest) and John Clarke LDWA

Number walking 13.

Distance 9 Miles

This was quite a unique walk as it was lead by a guest non member Andrew Stachulski who has recently in conjunction with local award winning photographer Helen Shaw published a wonderful book about the The Forest of Bowland.

The walk commenced in the centre of Dunsop Bridge then the route followed the River Dunsop north from the village. The river was crossed and a path taken across fields at the base of Staples Oak Fell onto the Trough Road. The road was followed a short distance to Hareden Farm where the lovely Langden Brook was crossed. After passing through the farm which like so many in the area was beautifully maintained a gently rising path was taken between Mellor Knott and Totridge Fell where large numbers of Oyster Catchers were observed in the fields and in the sky above. 

The group then began the in places steep ascent of Totridge Fell (496 M) The hard work was rewarded with stunning 360 degree views from the trig point on the summit of the entire Forest of Bowland area, the Lancashire coast, the Lakeland Fells and higher peaks of North Yorkshire.

The group retraced its steps from the summit and rejoined its original path which was followed through to Higher Fence Wood where Andrew has selected a welcome and much needed shaded spot in the woods for lunch but which still afforded wonderful views across the Hodder Valley. 

After lunch a small lane was picked up and followed down to Burholme Bridge where The River Hodder was crossed and a path picked up through Burholme Farm, which once again was immaculately maintained, The Hodder, which looked very inviting for a cool off, was then followed back to Dunsop village. 

The weather was dry and sunny which really showed the area at its best

A fantastic circular walk through a stunningly beautiful area lead by a man who clearly not only has a great knowledge of it but a genuine passion for it.