Walk Leader- John Clarke

Number walking- 26

Distance- 7 miles

Weather- Dry and cloudy

This walk started and finished on Station Road, Hoghton. 

The walk route crossed over Blackburn Old Road and entered the driveway of Hoghton Tower. This was followed through to the gatehouse before turning left along the lane which follows the perimeter of the estate grounds, from here fantastic views across the county through to the Forest of Bowland and the coast were available. 

After passing through a small wood the route crossed the Preston to Blackburn railway before turning right and running parallel with the railway as the path descended into Hoghton Bottoms. Upon entering Hoghton Bottoms an entertaining tale was told of when the famous actor Oliver Reed owned one of the properties back in the 1970's and the wild parties that were held there. 

The route then followed alongside a very swollen and dramatic fast flowing River Darwen through the valley, passing under Englands highest railway bridge, before entering the more open farmland on the approach to Pleasington. 

On passing through the outskirts of Pleasington the route crossed Preston Old Road before passing through the site of the old Sun Paper Mill. From here it was a short climb up to the Leeds to Liverpool canal where lunch was taken.

The route then followed the tow path of the canal to Riley Green where upon leaving the canal Bolton Road was followed to the Royal Oak pub. The lane at the side of the pub was followed into fields which sit at the base of Hoghton Tower from which the best perspective of the wonderful building can be observed. 

Once clear of the fields in was then only a short distance back to the start point. 

Post walk most participants adjourned to the Boars Head pub for refreshments.

A great social walk enjoyed by all.