Walk Leader: Jane Anthony, backmarker Ann Holden

No of walkers: 24 plus 4 dogs

Length: 10 miles

Weather: Grey with a little drizzle, clearing a bit in the afternoon

After assembling a larger than usual party for the group photo (including a visitor from Brighton en route to the Lakes), we set off heading towards Garstang along the river Wyre. At Gubberford Bridge we took the quiet lane to the ‘wire factory’ then headed across the fields back briefly to the river before following Lingart Lane to Hazelhead Lane. A short stretch on the road led us to the path across fields, over some tricky stiles and across bridges over both the railway and the M6 (an early climbing test for our legs!). Another short leg on Keepers Lane passed a farm with some very pretty ‘fancy?’ chickens in what appeared to be a very tidy garden considering it’s occupants. A muddy path then led us to a short steep climb and on through a couple of fields before emerging at Barnacre Church. We then started  a steady ascent through fields to Strickens Lane. There followed a short flat respite before further steady climbing to the lunch spot.

The weather had deteriorated a little and visibility was poor so we set off after lunch with little hope of good views but heading towards Grizedale Bridge we got glimpses of Harrisend Fell. After the bridge we followed the stream and concessionary path through the woods, making use of many (very welcome) duckboards, to reach Grizedale valley. Here the party split into those following the planned route, and a smaller group who elected to pass on the ascent and descent of Nicky Nook and headed down Grizedale Valley and back via Tithe Barn Lane to the cars.

The remaining main party turned right up the valley towards Fell End Farm turning off the track after leaving the woods and climbing the back of Nicky Nook, passing one of the many towers marking the route of the Thirlmere aqueduct. Although not fully clear we were rewarded with better visibility from the summit and for the remainder of the walk, which descended the west side of the hill to the junction of Higher Lane and Snowhill Lane. We followed Higher Lane for half a mile before turning down Tithe Barn Lane and returning to the cars. Many thanks to all for coming, to the backmarking ‘team’ who made my job much easier and to John T who volunteered to lead the smaller group down the Grizedale Valley and safely back to the cars.