Walk leader: John Meller

Number of walkers: 12

Distance: 6.2 Miles

Weather: Sunny

The walk started and finished at the Holden Arms, Grane Road Haslingden. A group photo was taken at the start of the walk. An easy walk that takes in the fantastic views of the Rossendale Valley, walking around the three Reservoirs near Haslingden.

The first reservoir was Holden Wood, which was constructed in 1842, a nice steady walk along the to pside of the reservoir. Were there was a sighting of a couple of deer.

The path continued on to Ogen reservoir. The construction of Ogden Reservoir in1912 was to provide a reliable water supply to the rapidly expanding industrial populations by the Bury & District Joint Water Board in 1900, which required the purchase of land, mills and homes began the virtual depopulation of the village.

The last reservoir was Calf Hey constructed in 1860 and was the first of the reservoirs to be built; this is the most popular for walkers due to its easy access. A slight detour through the wooded area at the top end of the reservoir.   A slight incline which took us to the Calf Head café and Information Centre. Stopping for refreshments.

After lunch we started on our journey back along the opposite side of the reservoirs, first going past the Jamestone quarry.  Stone from this quarry was used in Trafalgar square in London.  Our next stop was at Crowtrees. There was a school and Church which were used by the Grane Village.  The Church St Stephens was moved stone by stone in 1926 and rebuilt across from our starting point Holden Arms.

Continuing the walk taking in the fantastic views of the valley we arrived  at Mary’s wood, then a short walk back to the Holden Arms.

Afterwards, some of the group went to a local watering hole, The Griffin Inn, Hud Rake, Haslingden, the home of the Rossendale Brewery, to sample their excellent Real ales.