Wyre Council Volunteers

This guide has been produced by Volunteers working under the Coast and Countryside section of Wyre Council. Volunteers are engaged in a wide range activities throughout the Wyre region, from the Bowland Fells to the Fylde coast. For more information on volunteering in Wyre see: www.wyre.gov.uk/info/200172/volunteering

Walking in Lancashire

The Garstang Walking Festival, held during the second week in May, provides an extravaganza of walking opportunities. Organised by the Friends of the Garstang Walking Festival, and supported by Wyre Council, it offers a huge range of guided walks from tours of local historical sights and wildlife watching to more challenging rambles on the Bowland fells; seewww.wyre.gov.uk/walking

Wyre Council offers a year round schedule of guided walks, from short health walks to long fell walks. For more information ask for the Walking Wyre brochure or see: www.wyre.gov.uk/walking

Call in at the ‘Visit Garstang Centre’ in Cherestanc Square, Garstang (PR3 1EF) for up-to-date information on events and activities in the region.

‘Visit Lancashire’ have produced a large variety of free leaflets and maps detailing walking routes in many parts of the county. For details of more routes visit: www.visitlancashire.com/things-to-do

Useful Websites

Further help and information on walking in Lancashire can be accessed fromthe following:www.forestofbowland.com www.visitlancashire.comwww.visitwyre.com www.garstang.netwww.ramblers.org.uk www.walkingforhealth.org.ukwww.canalrivertrust.org.uk

This guide has been published with the support of Lancashire County Council www.lancashire.gov.uk

Walking For Health

Walking is a great way to help stay fit and healthy. Regular walking can fit into your daily routine and help you to:

Keep your heart strong Reduce the risk of heart disease Give you more energy Aid weight loss Make new friends Reduce high blood pressure Improve mobility Help you sleep better Give you a ‘feel good’ factor Explore your local environment

See the back page for links to organisations to help you get moving.

Walking Safety

Plan your route according to the fitness and ability of your group.

Carry, and practice using, a ‘proper’ map (Ordnance Survey) as well as a guide book

Learn how to use a compass, it won’t be necessary on all walks but comes in handy surprisingly often, and can be a life-saver

Check the weather forecast and plan accordingly

Wear adequate footwear and clothing and carry food and drink according to the weather and length of route

Tell a responsible person where you are going and when you expect to be back

Learn the basic principles of first aid – airway, breathing, circulation and the recovery position. It could make the difference between life and death.

Be prepared to turn back!

There’s much more advice at:

www.mountain.rescue.org.uk/mountain-adviceWalk Grading

The walks in this leaflet are graded as follows:

Easy: Shorter walks of up to 2 hours on relatively level ground, fields, lanes and tracks, possibly with some gentle slopes, stiles / livestock

Moderate: Up to half a day of walking on uneven ground, fields, lanes and tracks with some moderate slopes; expect stiles / livestock

Hard: Up to a full day of walking on uneven round, fields, lanes and tracks with some steeper climbs; expect stiles / livestock

Wildlife and Conservation

The area surrounding Garstang has a huge array of habitats which provide many opportunities for observing the natural world. The panels opposite show some of the mammals, birds, plant and insects to be found in this area at the right time of year.

Biosecurity

Not all plants and animals are welcome however. We have increasing problems with the introduction of alien species, some of which can damage or degrade our native habitats and wildlife. It is essential that we avoid further spreading these invaders. The UK Environment Agency are collating sightings of these problem species and more information can be found at:

www.lancashireinvasives.org

The Garstang to Knott End Railway was opened in 1870 as a branch line from the West Coast Main Line between Preston and Lancaster. The steam engine which plied this route was named the Pilling Pig after the plaintive sound of its whistle. The line was never profitable. By 1930 passenger transport was discontinued and the line was finally closed in the early 1960’s.

All Saints Church, Barnacre, is an active Anglican parish church in the deanery of Garstang. It was built between 1905 and 1906. It was paid for by the family of Thomas Henry Rushton, a Bolton textile machinery manufacturer, in his memory, and is a Grade 2 listed building.

Points of Interest

Greenhalgh Castle was built in 1490 by the 1st Earl of Derby to defend his estates around Garstang. It was destroyed during the English Civil War. Many of the castle’s stones were used in building the adjacent Castle Farm.

The Garstang Flood Barrier: Flooding of the River Wyre downstream from Garstang led to the construction of a flood alleviation basin – a metal ramp in the bed of the river is raised in times of high flow causing the low lying land behind the embankment of the old Garstang to Pilling railway to flood, thus preventing the river flood water racing downstream.

Scorton; The name means ‘farmstead near a ditch or ravine’. The oldest buildings include the Priory and date from the 17th century – now a hotel and restaurant. The village developed in the 19th century around a cotton mill, and even had its own railway station. The large gatehouse next to the Priory leads to Wyresdale Hall, built by a wealthy banker from Bolton.

The Grizedale Reservoir was constructed 1861-63 by the original Fylde Water Board. Demand soon outstripped supply, leading to the creation of three further reservoirs; Barnacre East, Barnacre West and Grizedale Lea, which now help to supply drinking water to the Fylde area.

The River Wyre is England’s longest river whose estuary can be seen from its source. It rises in the Bowland fells near Abbeystead and flows into the sea at Fleetwood.

The Lancaster Canal opened between 1797 and 1819 to carry cargo and passengers between Kendal and Preston. Now a major attraction for walking, boating, fishing and cycling and a great place to see wildlife.

Walking from Garstang

The ‘Fairtrade’ Town of Garstang provides an excellent centre for country walking in Wyre, with sites of historical, ecological and scenic interest readily accessible to the average walker. The town has a tourist information centre, shops, pubs, restaurants and accommodation to satisfy most tastes and budgets, and you’re sure find a welcome in the pubs and restaurants in the nearby villages of Scorton, Catterall and Churchtown.

FacilitiesPublic toilets can be found on Park Hill Road next to Cherestanc Square and in the car park opposite the junction of High Street and Croston Road.

Your choiceThese walks have been chosen to satisfy a range of capabilities including those with limited mobility and families as well as the more experienced walker. The routes vary from a short ‘Tramper’ trail around the Millennium Green nature reserve, to a 10mile circuit up to the edge of the fells. All walks have great views of the Forest of Bowland hills and the longer walks can command views of the Lake District, Morecambe Bay and Fylde Coast – opportunities for observing the natural world abound.

The Routes1 The Millennium Green Tramper Trail – 1.6 miles (Easy)

2 Garstang and the River Wyre - 2.4 miles (Easy)

3 Greenhalgh Castle: Direct or via the Lancaster Canal – 2.1 or 3.1 miles (Easy)

4 Garstang and Barnacre Circular Walk – 3.7 miles (Moderate)

5 Garstang to Scorton & Back – 6 miles (Moderate)

6 Calder Vale & Back – 7.5 miles (Moderate)

7 The Crumbly Lancashire Cheese Walk – 6.9 miles (Moderate)

8 Garstang Barnacre & Grizedale – 10 miles (Hard)

Flora and Fauna

2 Garstang and the River Wyre

About This Walk

This is a gentle riverside walk through fields and via the public amenity area called the Millennium Green. There are fine views of the Bowland fells in the distance and opportunities to see wildlife; possibly a kingfisher, along the river. It crosses the course of the old railway line to Pilling, the embankment of which is now used as part of the flood defences.

Start Point:

At the circular “Villa de Garstang” mosaic in Cherestanc Square Garstang Post Code: PR3 1EFOS Grid Reference: SD 4915 4529

DifficultyWalking: EasyTramper-Friendly?: No

Distance / Time3.8 km (2.4 miles) / 1-1.5 hours

Terrain

The route follows roads, farm tracks, fields and footpaths. The terrain is largely flat. There are stiles, gates and steps, and paths can be wet and muddy after rain. There may be animals in the fields and when on farmland dogs should be kept on a short lead at all times. Dog walking is allowed, off lead, on the Millennium Green as long as good practices are followed that keep the area safe and clean for children to play.

Special Interest:

• Millennium Green: Established in 2000, the Millennium Green is a pleasant open space for use by all. The Green is owned by a charity and managed by volunteers, the land is secure and will never be developed.

Walk Description:

1. SD 4915 4529 Stand on the “Villa de Garstang” mosaic facing the stone seat, turn to your right and walk to Park Hill Road (10m). Cross at the pedestrian crossing then proceed to High Street via the alleyway ahead.

2. SD 4923 4527 Turn right along High Street and bear left onto Bridge Street at the Royal Oak Hotel. Cross the Wyre Bridge and turn left onto Castle Lane, then immediately left, through a gate, to join the riverside path.

3. SD 4935 4493 Follow the riverside path across the fields and through three gates until it

joins the old railway embankment next to the bridge over the Wyre. Turn right along the track then immediately left down some steps to a gate at the bottom of the embankment. Continue through the gate to the path leading across the fields, via three gates, to join Lingart Lane.

4. SD 4991 4596 Turn left and proceed to the end of Lingart Lane. Just before the track turns left down to the ford, continue straight on for a short distance then left along a wide riverside path to the footbridge over the river. Go over the bridge to join Wyre Lane.

5. SD 4977 4615 After 20m turn left through a gate into the Millennium Green. Turn immediately left and follow the meandering riverside path through the Green, past the sculpture of the Dipper bird. Keep to the riverside path, by bearing left at each path junction, and continue to the south entrance to the Millennium Green, near the flood barrier. Proceed over the flood defence embankment, via the concrete steps, then under the bridge by the river and round the cricket pitch to the car park and picnic area by the bend in the river.

4 Garstang & Barnacre Circular Walk

About This Walk

This walk is mostly through field paths east of Garstang, but begins along the course of the old Pilling railway, before climbing gently to the village of Barnacre. The return has great views west over the Fylde plain to Morecambe Bay, Fleetwood and Blackpool.

Start Point

At the circular “Villa de Garstang” mosaic in Cherestanc Square Garstang Post Code: PR3 1EFOS Grid Reference: SD 4915 4529

Difficulty

Walking: ModerateTramper Friendly?: No

Distance / Time:5.9 km (3.7 miles) / 1.5-2.5 hours

Terrain and Hazards

The route follows roads, farm tracks, fields and footpaths. The terrain is largely flat but with several short, steep, ascents and descents. There are stiles, gates and steps, and paths can be wet and muddy after rain. There may be animals in the fields and farm yards. Dogs should be kept on a short lead at all times.

Special Interest:

• Wildgoose Railway Cutting: The wood is part of a conservation area containing a variety of trees within the railway cutting. The landowner allows concessionary access. The whole stretch of this old line has become a ‘green corridor of wildlife’. A walk along here in summer will reveal the splendour of wild flowers and butterflies.

• Lady Hamilton’s Well: A spa well reputed to have possessed medicinal properties and used to bathe in by members of the Hamilton family. Originally square in form with steps leading down, much of the stone work has now collapsed but the water still flows freely.

Walk Description:

1. SD 4915 4529 Stand on the “Villa de Garstang” mosaic facing the stone seat, turn to your right and walk to Park Hill Road (10m). Cross the road at the pedestrian crossing and go down the alleyway ahead to reach the High Street. Turn left and proceed to the mini roundabout at the entrance to the High Street car park. Walk through the car park heading for a footpath at the far left hand corner with the football field on the left and the riverside picnic area on the right.

2. SD 4938 4545 Follow the riverside path around the playing field to the first bridge and climb the stone steps

situated in the wall to the left side of the bridge. Turn right at the top of the steps and walk straight ahead along the line of the old railway. Continue on until you pass by a large electricity pylon on the right, then take the footpath on the left which climbs the railway embankment for about 150m to a stile on the left.

3. SD 5045 4541 Cross the stile and head towards the lone tree in the field ahead. Pass the tree and continue to the corner of the wood and on, with the wood on your left, to a pedestrian gate in front of the railway bridge.

4. SD 5063 4552 Cross the railway footbridge, and the motorway bridge beyond it, and continue straight on to join Parkhead Lane at a pedestrian gate. Bear left and continue along the lane for about 500m to Clarkson’s Farm on the left. Just past the farm take the stile and footpath on the left and follow this along the field edges, negotiating a gate and three stiles, until it emerges onto Delph Lane – you will notice Barnacre Church to your right.

5. SD 5122 4602 Cross the lane and take the path next to a post box, down some stone steps, and onto a footbridge. Cross the bridge and continue to your left following the riverside shrubbery. Go through a gate and proceed uphill to the right, heading towards the wood and passing an old quarry on the left. On reaching the wood descend steeply, with the wood on your left, until you reach a stile in the corner of the field. Go over the stile and turn right following the fence line to a large Alder tree on the left of the path (on the left beneath the tree you can see the remains of

Lady Hamilton’s Well). Walk diagonally left and cross a stile leading onto a farm track. Turn left and proceed along the track to join Keepers Lane.

6. SD 5089 4622 Turn right along Keepers Lane, passing Crosby Cottage on the left, to a stile in the hedge on the left - next to the first field gate. Go over the stile and the second one immediately ahead. Continue on with the hedge line on your right, towards a stile in front of the motorway footbridge. Cross the bridge and the stile on the other side, and bear slightly right as you cross the field to a further stile in front of the railway footbridge.Cross the bridge and the stile on the other side and follow the hedge line on the right to a footbridge which leads onto Hazelhead Lane.

7. SD 5030 4628 Turn left along the Lane and walk past the farm building on the left hand side to where the lane bends sharply to the left. Turn right at this point to follow Lingart Lane (unsurfaced), under the power lines to the junction adjacent to the Lower Lingart Farm. Continue

straight ahead for about 150m to a pedestrian gate situated between two field gates on the left – just before a sharp right turn in the track.

8. SD 4992 4596 Go through the gate and follow the hedge line on the right for about 100m then bear left across the field to a further gate in the hedge ahead. Carry on through two further gates in roughly the same direction, eventually emerging onto the old railway embankment to re-join your outward route. Follow the track over the river bridge and descend the steps on the left to join the riverside path back to Garstang.

9. SD 4959 4554 Continue along the riverside path, with the cricket field on your right, to the picnic area, at the bend in the river, near the car park. Continue along the riverside path, for about 100m, under the trees to a grassy path on the right leading to the High Street. Turn left along the High Street then cross the road and proceed up Stoops Hall Weind (indicated by the brass plaque set in the pavement) back to Cherestanc Square.

Buzzard Curlew Dipper

Kingfisher Lapwing Sand Martin

Bank Vole

Grey Squirrel Brown Hare

Pipistrelle Bat

Roe Deer

Stoat

Branched Bur-Reed Lady’s Bedstraw Meadow Cranesbill

Lesser BurdochGreater Celandine

Common Blue Damselfly

Tufted Vetch

Brown Hawker Dragonfly

Banded Demoiselle Damselfly

Burnet Moth

Gatekeeper and Common Blue Butterflies

Four Spotted Chaser Dragonfly

Gatekeeper Butterfly Peacock Butterfly

Walks from Garstang

A B

C D

E F

G H

3 Greenhalgh Castle: Direct or via the Lancaster Canal

About This Walk

There are two alternative routes covered here, the shorter one takes the most direct route to the historic ruin of Greenhalgh Caste and returns to Garstang via the old railway cutting, now a nature reserve. The longer route begins along the picturesque Lancaster Canal before crossing fields, past the remains of the castle, to join the shorter route back to Garstang.

Start Point:

At the circular “Villa de Garstang” mosaic in Cherestanc Square Garstang Post Code: PR3 1EFOS Grid Reference: SD 4915 4529

Difficulty

Walking: EasyTramper-Friendly?: No

Distance / Time:5 km (3.1 miles) / 1.5-2 hours OR 3.4 km (2.1 miles) / 1-1.5 hours

Terrain and Hazards

The routes follow roads, farm tracks, fields, footpaths and canal towpath. The terrain is largely flat. There are stiles, gates and steps, and paths can be wet and muddy after rain. There may be animals in the fields and farm yards. Dogs should be kept on a short lead at all times. The route passes the site of Greenhalgh Castle, please do not walk up to the Castle as there is no right of way and the ruins are unsafe.

Special Interest

• Wyre Aqueduct: A single span of 110 feet, 34 feet high which carries the Lancaster Canal over the River Wyre. It dates from 1797 and was designed by John Rennie.

• Weinds: ancient rights of way dating from medieval times.

• Wildgoose Wood: The wood is part of a conservation area containing a variety of trees within the railway cutting. The landowner allows concessionary access. The whole stretch of this old line has become a ‘green corridor of wildlife’. A walk along here in summer will reveal the splendour of wild flowers and butterflies.

Walk Description

1. SD 4915 4529 Stand on the “Villa de Garstang” mosaic facing the stone seat, turn to your right and walk to Park Hill road (10m). Turn right and follow the road, turning

left at the first mini roundabout to a second roundabout.

2. FOR THE SHORT VERSION OF THE WALK continue straight ahead at the second mini roundabout and carry on to a road junction near a bridge over the river. Turn right to cross the bridge, then immediately left down Castle Lane. Continue along Castle Lane for 850m (0.53 miles), past the Castle information board on the left, to Greenhalgh Castle House. Bear left across the court yard in front of the farmhouse. NOW CONTINUE FROM PARAGRAPH 6.

3. FOR THE LONGER VERSION OF THE WALK turn right at the second roundabout (Church Street) and continue on to the bridge over the canal.

4. SD 4891 4502 Go over the canal bridge and immediately turn down onto the towpath. Proceed along the towpath with the canal on your left, note the aqueduct over the river Wyre as you walk along. At the fifth bridge (no. 56) leave the towpath using the steps and stile. Turn left across the bridge. Continue along the farm track to a field gate.

5. SD 5040 4474 Once through the gate cross the stile and ditch on the left and head straight across the field towards a gate just to the right of some farm buildings. Pass through the gate and look for a stile at the left end of the hedge line straight ahead (do not go through the farm gate to the left). Go over the stile and follow the left hand hedge line

over a further two stiles to the courtyard in front of the farmhouse.

6. SD 5012 4510 Continue past the farmhouse on the right, noting the ruins of Greenhalgh Castle on the left. Turn right immediately past the farmhouse and follow the farm track past the converted barns, bearing right to a field gate.

7. SD 5021 4521 Pass through a pedestrian gate to the left of the field gate and turn left. Follow the fence line, past a field gate, and go through another pedestrian gate on the left, next to a ‘finger post’ footpath sign. Cross the field ahead and through a pedestrian gate to the top of a flight of steps. Descend the steps into the disused railway cutting and turn left. (Alternatively, turn right to explore Wildgoose Wood then return to this point).

8. SD 5045 4540 Continue along the footpath and pass through two more pedestrian gates on the approach to Garstang. The path eventually joins a tarmac road over the river bridge. Continue to an opening in the wall on the left just past the first stone building after the bridge, giving access to some stone steps. Descend the steps and turn right to join the riverside footpath back towards Garstang.

9. SD 4938 4544 On reaching the picnic site at the bend in the river, just in front of a car park, continue following the riverside path left for a further 100m then turn right up the grassy public footpath to High Street. Turn left then almost immediately right up Stoops Hall Weind (denoted by a brass plaque in the pavement) to return to Cherestanc Square.

1 Millennium Green Tramper Trail

About This Walk

The Millennium Green was established in the year 2000 as pleasant open space for use by all. The Green is owned by a charity and managed by volunteers. The trail passes along the beautiful River Wyre, through areas rich in wildflowers, with views of the Forest of Bowland to the east. The riverbanks and trees are a haven for wildlife; keep an eye open for the Dipper, the Kingfisher and Bats on summer evenings.

Start Point:

At the High Street car park in Garstang near the River Wyre, with its entrance opposite the junction of High Street and Croston Road.Post Code: PR3 1EBOS Grid Reference: SD 4930 4543

DifficultyWalking: EasyTramper-Friendly?: Yes - Easy

Distance / Time2.6 km (1.6 miles) / 0.5 -1 hours

Terrain

The route largely follows well made tracks although there are some rough/muddy sections of path, particularly after rain.

Special Interest:

• The ‘Hand’ Sculpture you will encounter on this walk signifies the handover of the Millennium Green land from private to public ownership.

Walk Description:

1. SD 4930 4543 Proceed to the far left corner of the car park, between the football field and the picnic area on the bank of the river. Follow the track between the playing fields and river, with a green fence to the left, to a bridge over the river. Pass under the bridge, with the river on the right, then bear left, past some stone steps on the right, to a junction with a small road leading up to the flood defence barrier. Cross this road and continue along the track opposite, which turns to the right and leads to the entrance into the Millennium Green near the Flood Barrier.

2. SD 4958 4562 Enter the Millennium Green with the river on the right and a hedge to the left. Follow the gravel path to a picnic area on the left (which is accessible to Tramper

vehicles). Turn left toward the gate into the picnic area, but turn immediately right, before the gate, onto a grass path. Follow this grass path round to the left, with the hedge / picnic area on your left, to the hedge boundary of the Green, then right, following the hedge line, past the ‘Hand’ sculpture, until the path re-joins the main gravel track by the river. Turn left here and continue to a gate near a sculpture of a Dipper.

3. SD 4963 4604 Bear left after the gate and proceed in a clockwise direction round this section of the Green farthest from the town. Ignore the two gates on the left,

which lead to Wyre Lane. After 200m you should re-join the riverside, now travelling downstream back towards Garstang. Follow the track, with the river on your left and bearing left at each path junction, to return to the entrance into the Millennium Green.

4. SD 4958 4562 From the entrance into the Millennium Green proceed up the ramp on the right, across the small road at the top, then left down the ramp opposite. Go under the bridge by the river and along the path next to the cricket ground to return to the car park.

6. SD 4939 4544 Continue along the riverside path under the trees for about 130m to a public footpath on the right. Follow this up to High Street, turn left and then right into Stoops Hall Weind and thence back to Cherestanc Square.

DisclaimerThe details within this publication are given in good faith on the basis of information submitted to Wyre Council.

Wyre Council cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information and accepts no responsibility for any error or misrepresentation. Although efforts are made to ensure the accuracy of the publication at the time of going to press, changes can occur.

5 Garstang to Scorton and Back

About This Walk

The walk leaves Garstang along the River Wyre, via the beautiful amenity area called the Millennium Green. It passes through fields and woods leading to the picturesque and historic village of Scorton. It takes in a further section of the river Wyre on the return; watch out for Sand Martins nesting in the banks during summer.

Start Point:

At the circular “Villa de Garstang” mosaic in Cherestanc Square Garstang Post Code: PR3 1EFOS Grid Reference: SD 4915 4529

Difficulty

Walking: ModerateTramper-Friendly?: No

Distance / Time

10 km (6 miles) / 3-4 hours

Terrain

The route follows roads, farm tracks, fields, footpaths. The terrain is largely flat with several short hills. There are stiles, gates and steps, and paths can be wet and muddy after rain. There may be animals in the fields and farm yards. Dogs should be kept on a short lead at all times.

Special Interest:

• The large gate house next to the Priory leads to Wyresdale Hall, built by a wealthy banker from Bolton.

Walk Description:

1. SD 4915 4529 Stand on the “Villa de Garstang” mosaic facing the stone seat, turn to your right and walk to Park Hill Road (10m). Cross the road to the pedestrian crossing and go down the alleyway ahead, to reach High Street. Turn left and proceed to the mini roundabout at the entrance to the High Street car park on the right. Walk through the car park heading for a footpath at the far left hand corner, with the football field on the left and the riverside picnic area on the right.

2. SD 4937 4545 Follow the path around the playing field by the river, under a bridge by the river and over the old railway embankment, using two sets of concrete steps, to a gate into the Millennium Green.

3. SD 4958 4562 Go through the gate and follow the path for 600m to another gate onto Wyre Lane at the far end of the Millennium Green. Go through this gate and turn right for a few metres until you see a path and

information panel on the left between two hedges. Follow this over the foot bridge, turning left on the other side, eventually leading to a gate at the foot of Broom Hill.

4. SD 4981 4639 Go through the gate and follow the path, through another gate, round the edge of some trees on the left and along the field edge, with Grizedale Brook on the left. The path eventually leaves the brook and goes straight across the field to a gate onto Hazelhead Lane.

5. SD 5030 4692 Go through the gate, cross the lane and bear right, then left, into the yard of a small factory next to the railway. Walk diagonally left across the yard, go over the railway footbridge and follow the path over the motorway bridge immediately beyond. Just beyond the motorway bridge take the descending track on the left, turning sharp left at the bottom by an old stile. Follow the path through some bushes and turn right over a small bridge crossing the brook.

6. SD 5046 4712 Head straight across the field ahead, with the motorway on your left, aiming for a stile in the corner of the field (about 60m from the motorway boundary) leading into the wood. Go over the stile and take the right hand path through the wood. After 400m (440 yds) go over a footbridge on the right into the field and walk along the edge of the field, with the wood on the left, to a stile.

7. SD 5059 4780 Go over this stile and walk straight across the field in front, roughly parallel with the motorway, heading for another stile next to a farm gate. Continue with a fence on your right, past a large house, then head for a stile at the right hand end of a Leylandii hedge, next to an oak tree, about 50m to the left of a field gate. The stile leads onto Tithe Barn Lane.

8. SD 5055 4820 Turn left and follow the lane for a further 150m, turning to the right between some houses, to a footpath sign and kissing gate on the right. Go through the kissing gate and straight on through another one 50m ahead. Following the path over a small stream, through a wood to a kissing gate leading into a meadow. Bear right across the meadow and go through another gate and down a short track to reach Snow Hill Lane.

9. SD 5059 4875 Turn left along the lane and follow it over the motorway and on into Scorton village. Turn left at the ‘T’ junction in the village and follow the road (Gubberford Lane) out of the village, eventually going under the railway bridge to a ramp leading up to the river embankment. Go up the ramp and follow the paved path for 200m (220 yds) then down another ramp, located opposite a field gate, leading down to the road on the left. Cross over and turn

Here you have a choice; either to return to Garstang along the riverside path the way you came or proceed along the slightly shorter route below.

12. SD 5003 4655 Just past the power lines take the path on the left which heads in the direction of the ruined castle (Greenhalgh castle) on a small hill in the far distance. Follow this path over a stile, over a small bridge and another stile, emerging onto Lingart Lane. Turn right and follow the lane for 100m (110 yds) to a gate on the left between two field gates. Go through the gate and follow the path along the right hand field boundary for 100m (110 yds). At a large ash tree bear left across the field, heading in the direction of the large wind turbine in the distance, to a gate. Carry on through two further gates in roughly the same direction, eventually emerging onto the old railway embankment.

13. SD 4967 4555 Turn right and cross the bridge over the River Wyre and take the set of steps leading down on the left, just past the first small building on the left, to join the riverside path. Turn right and follow the path to the picnic site and car park near the bend in the river. Proceed through the car park to the mini roundabout and turn left along High Street, then right up Stoops Hall Weind to return to Cherestanc Square.

stile and follow the right hand field boundary to a further stile. Cross this and walk straight across the field ahead, aiming for the large barn to the left of the farm buildings. Leave the field by the farm track which goes downhill, to the left, and across a stream, and head for the farm buildings. Proceed through the farm yard, in front of the large barn and with the farmhouse to your right, to join the farm access track.

7. SD 5222 4660 Follow the farm access track for 270m (300 yards), past a single story barn conversion, to a double stile on the right. Cross the stiles and go straight across the field, over a stile, and across the next field with the field boundary on your right. Carry on through a kissing gate and on beside the wood, over a stile, to a kissing gate in the bottom corner of the field leading to a junction in the road.

8. SD 5142 4608 Take the middle route (Delph Lane), heading for Barnacre Church ahead. Immediately past the church take the path up some stone steps on the left. Go over two stiles, another stile and gate on the left, before

the farm buildings, and along to a stile leading onto the road. 9. SD 5131 4573 Turn right along the road, past Clarksons Farm, then straight on through a pedestrian gate to the motorway bridge at the end of the lane (ignore the track / footpath on the left). Continue over the motorway and railway bridges and through a kissing gate into a field. Initially follow the boundary of the wood on the right, then bear left to cross the field, past a lone tree in the centre, over a stile.

10. SD 5045 4541 Turn immediately right, avoiding the steep steps ahead, and continue straight along the course of the old railway for 850m (half a mile), through two gates, to the bridge over the river Wyre. Go over the bridge and down the steps on the left to join the riverside path. Turn right and walk around the cricket pitch, to reach a picnic site and car park near a bend in the river. Walk back through the car park to High Street, turn left and return to Cherestanc Square via Stoops Hall Weind, identified by the metal plaque in the pavement.

right along the road to a gate, just after the last house on the left.

10. SD 4993 4796 Go through the gate and follow the left hand field boundary to a stile near the farm buildings. Go over the stile then turn right and go through the farm yard, through two farm gates until you see a stile leading to the field beyond the farmhouse. Go over the stile and bear left across the field to another stile in the hedge. Go over this stile and you will see a field boundary opposite the stile, with rough grass / gorse on the left side and pasture on the right side. Keep to the left side of the boundary and follow the fence (you may need to meander somewhat to avoid areas of boggy ground) over a small hill until you come to a further stile, a stream and several farm gates, with some woodland ahead.

11. SD 5008 4732 Cross the stream to a stile in the corner on the right. Cross the stile and walk straight ahead through the field, keeping the wood on your right, past a farm gate, to a stile in the hedge just before some house gardens. Go over this stile into a playing field and bear left to a stile leading onto Hazelhead Lane. Turn left along the lane to reach the gate, on the right, which you passed through on your outward journey. Go through the gate and re-trace your steps through the field to a point underneath the large overhead power lines.

7 Crumbly Lancashire Cheese Walk – From Garstang

About This Walk

This walk mostly follows the path of the ‘Crumbly Lancashire Cheese Walk’, one of the Forest of Bowland (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) walking routes. The route meanders through the fields south of Garstang close to the impressive wind turbine of the Dewlay Cheese centre, past the historic Kirkland Hall to the pretty village of Churchtown with its stone sundial and beautiful St Helens Church. It includes a short section of the rivers Wyre and Calder and a long and picturesque section of the Lancaster Canal with fine views of the Bowland Fells and many opportunities for seeing wildlife and wild flowers in summer.

Start Point

At the circular “Villa de Garstang” mosaic in Cherestanc Square Garstang Post Code: PR3 1EFOS Grid Reference: SD 4915 4529

Difficulty

Walking: ModerateTramper-Friendly?: No

Distance / Time

11 km (6.9 miles) / 3.5-4.5 hours

Terrain

The route follows roads, farm tracks, fields, footpaths and canal towpath. The terrain is largely flat with one steep embankment. There are stiles, gates and steps, and paths can be wet and muddy after rain. There may be animals in the fields and farm yards. Dogs should be kept on a short lead at all times. There are several busy road crossings where extreme care is required.

Special Interest:

• Dewlay Cheese makers: Began cheese making in 1957 and are regular award winners at national shows. You can’t miss its 2MW wind turbine! There’s a shop and tours are available.

• Churchtown: St Helen’s Church dates from the 13th century and the school was founded in the early 1600s. Although known as “The Cross”, the village has an 18th-century dialpost with a sundial at its head.

Walk Description:

1. SD 4915 4529 Stand on the “Villa de Garstang” mosaic facing the stone seat, turn to your right and walk

to Park Hill Road (10m). Turn right and follow the road, turning left at the first mini roundabout and right at the second, until you reach the bridge over the canal.

2. SD 4891 4502 Go over the canal bridge and immediately turn down onto the towpath. Walk for about 100m along the towpath with the canal on your left to a small gate on the right next to a ‘finger post’ public footpath sign. Go through the gate and walk straight ahead, initially with a green fence on your right. Continue in roughly the same direction across several fields via gates and stiles until you reach the A6 road through a gate in the hedge at the top of a bank.

3. SD 4850 4441 Cross the road with care and turn left (South) following the A6 to Cross House Farm (100m). Go past the entrance to the farmhouse and turn right onto a farm track. Follow this for 230m past the farm buildings, through several gates, to a left turn. Continue left following the track for 650m past the large wind turbine to where the track turns sharp left, with a field gate ahead.

4. SD 4819 4380 Go through the gate and follow the footpath markers, initially down the left side of the field then right, across the field, to a stile. Go over the stile, through the gate beyond it and follow the track. This bends to the right in front of some buildings then continues towards the farmhouse (Kirkland Hall Farm). Turn left in front of the farmhouse and walk through the farmyard turning left at the end of the farm buildings. Follow the track for a further 550m (600 yards) to the A586.

5. SD 4796 4308 Cross the A586 and turn left then almost immediately right into Ainspool Lane. Walk through to Churchtown village square, bearing right at the stone ‘cross’ (actually a sundial), towards St Helen’s church. Bear right into the church car park just before the church. Continue round the church with the main graveyard to

your left, through the small graveyard at the rear to a gate leading to a path across the field beyond.

6. SD 4814 4275 Continue along the path over the foot-bridge crossing the River Wyre and go over a stile beside a farm lane. Follow this lane left for a few metres then turn left over a wooden stile (or through the stone ‘squeeze stile’) then through the right hand of the two field gates onto a farm track.

7. SD 4806 4255 Follow this track for 920m (0.6 miles) over some stiles to a gate onto the Old Lancaster Road. Turn right and follow the road for 110m (120 yards) turning left beside house number 33 (‘West View’) to reach the A6 again. Cross the A6 at this point and proceed down Tan Yard Road opposite. Continue past the Collinson industrial site and on past an old red brick house to a path on the left which is bordered by green metal fencing (look for small yellow footpath arrows). Follow this path for 950m

6 Calder Vale and Back

About This Walk

The route goes east from Garstang, past the historic Greenhalgh Castle, then climbs gently before a making a steep descent into the picturesque wooded valley of Calder Vale. The return takes in wonderful views over the Fylde and Morecambe Bay to the Lake District from the hill top near Kelbrick Farm. The final leg is along the course of the old Pilling Railway, a haven for wild flowers and butterflies in summer.

Start Point:

At the circular “Villa de Garstang” mosaic in Cherestanc Square Garstang Post Code: PR3 1EFOS Grid Reference: SD 4915 4529

Difficulty

Walking: ModerateTramper-Friendly?: No

Distance / Time

12 km (7.5 miles) / 3.5-5 hours

Terrain and Hazards

The route follows roads, farm tracks, fields and footpaths. There is a gentle, but sustained climb / descent to and from Calder Vale, but with some short steep sections. There are stiles, gates and steps, and paths can be wet and muddy after rain. There may be animals in the fields and farm yards. Dogs should be kept on a short lead at all times.

Special Interest:

• Calder Vale: The village was founded by Quakers Jonathan and Richard Jackson who built a water powered cotton-weaving mill in 1835. The mill is still working, one of its main products being head-scarves for the middle east market.

Walk Description:

1. SD 4915 4529 Stand on the “Villa de Garstang” mosaic facing the stone seat, turn to your right and walk to the pedestrian crossing on Park Hill Road (10m). Cross the road and proceed down the alleyway opposite onto the High Street. Turn right and walk along High Street bearing left at the Royal Oak Hotel, and on down Bridge Street and over the river bridge to the junction with Castle Lane.

2. SD 4935 4493 Turn left immediately after the bridge and proceed down Castle Lane, past the ruins of Greenhalgh Castle to the small green at the bottom of the

lane. Bear right on entering the green to locate a stile in the corner on the right.

3. SD 5013 4509 Cross the stile and go along the enclosed path and over a second stile into a field. Walk along the right hand hedge, over a stile, past some farm buildings on the right and through a footpath gate. Continue in the same direction across the field beyond the gate to a footbridge and stile.

4. SD 5041 4475 Continue straight ahead for about 100m, with the hedge on the right, to a water trough, bear right to a field gate in the corner of the field. Go through the gate and cross the next field to a stile in the hedge. Bear left across the next field, through two field gates onto a track over both the railway and motorway bridges.

5. SD 5092 4466 Keep straight ahead on the concessionary path, with Bailtons Farm on the right, and on up the farm access track until the track joins a tarmac lane. Cross the lane, over a stile then bear right to a stile in the corner of the field. Keep left by the wood side to the next stile. Continue with the field boundary on the left, past a way-marker and, keeping the fence on your left, go to the corner of the field and over a stile and footbridge on your left.

6. SD 5178 4484 Keep to the right boundary up the next field, passing Lower House Farm on your right, and continue over a footbridge and stile in the right hand corner by the wood. Go through the kissing gate ahead and turn left on the farm track and then right between the farmhouse and farm buildings to a stile on the left. Go diagonally right across the field ahead, heading for the highest point, until you see a small pond in some trees on the left with three gates just beyond. Take the right hand gate, with the footpath way-marker, and continue up the left side of the field to the road. 7. SD 5243 4513 Turn right along the road about 280m (300 yards) to Sullom Side House and turn left up the track beside the house. Continue along the track over a stile and on, climbing steadily, until it ends at a gate and stile entering a large field. Go over the stile and walk straight down the field keeping the field boundary on your right, to a gate into the wood.

8. SD 5293 4508 Continue down through the wood keeping to the left track past some cottages, ignoring the footbridge on the right, to the road junction in Calder Vale village.

9. SD 5321 4573 Turn right and proceed downhill but just before the right turn at the bridge go straight ahead past the phone box. Take the path on the left which leads up through the wood to a kissing gate at the top. Bear right and go diagonally across the field, uphill, through the gate in the top left corner, then along a track to a stile on the left.

10. SD 5315 4644 Go over the stile and walk clockwise round the edge of the field (with hedge on the left) to a stile in the opposite corner, near the farm buildings. Cross the stile and bear right to the left end of the farmhouse garden. Go through a kissing gate gate by a water trough at the end of the farm garden (do not use the metal gate next to it as this leads into the garden). Follow the farm garden fence round to the right and cross a stile, by the gate, onto the farm access track. Turn left and follow this to the road.

11. SD 5295 4673 Cross the road, go over the stile ahead and follow the left field boundary to a kissing gate. Turn left through a second kissing gate then straight ahead through a footpath gate, near a large house, to the road. Turn left and proceed to the junction with Strickens Lane. Just beyond the junction go over the stile on the right and continue down the right side of the field over three stiles then onto a farm track.

12. SD 5227 4650 Turn left along the track for about 200m to a double stile on the right. Cross the stiles and go straight across the field, over a stile, and across the next field with the field boundary on your right. Carry on through a kissing gate and on, beside the wood, over a stile, to a kissing gate in the bottom corner of the field leading to a junction in the road.

13. SD 5142 4608 Take the middle route (Delph Lane) heading for Barnacre Church ahead. Go past the church to a path up some steps on the left. Go over two stiles, another stile and gate on the left, and along by the brook to the stile onto the road.

14. SD 5131 4573 Turn right along the road, past Clarksons Farm, then straight on to the motorway bridge at the end of the lane (ignore the house entrance on the right and the track / footpath on the left). Continue over the motorway and railway bridges and through a kissing gate into a field. Initially follow the boundary of the wood on the right then bear left to cross the field, past a lone tree in the centre then over a stile.

15. SD 5045 4541 Turn immediately right, avoiding the steep steps ahead, and continue straight along the course of the old railway for 850m (half a mile), through two gates, to the bridge over the River Wyre. Go over the bridge, past a small building and down the steps on the left to join the riverside path. Turn right and walk around the cricket pitch to reach a picnic site and car park near a bend in the river. Continue along the riverside path for about 100m and then take a footpath on the right leading up to the High Street. Cross the High Street and walk to the left then up Stoops Hall Weind, identified by the metal plaque in the pavement, to return to Cherestanc Square.

8 Garstang, Barnacre and Grize Dale

About This Walk

The first half of this walk has a distinctly watery theme, beginning along the River Wyre and then along the course of its tributary, Grizedale Brook; through the beautiful Grize Dale valley to the reservoirs in the hills above Garstang, which provide drinking water for the Fylde. On a clear day there are fabulous views across Wyre to Blackpool, Morecambe Bay and the Lake District – even to the Isle of Man and the Welsh hills. The route returns to Garstang through pasture land and via the course of the old Pilling railway line, now a haven for wild flowers and butterflies in summer.

Start Point:

At the circular “Villa de Garstang” mosaic in Cherestanc Square Garstang Post Code: PR3 1EFOS Grid Reference: SD 4915 4529

Difficulty

Walking: HardTramper-Friendly: No

Distance / Time

15.8 km (10 miles) / 4.5-6.5 hours

Terrain

The route follows roads, farm tracks, fields and footpaths. There are some sustained, but fairly gentle uphill sections. There are stiles, gates and steps, and paths can be wet and muddy after rain. There may be animals in the fields and farm yards. Dogs should be kept on a short lead at all times.

Walk Description:

1. SD 4915 4529 Stand on the “Villa de Garstang” mosaic facing the stone seat, turn to your right and walk to Park Hill Road (10m). Cross at the zebra crossing and proceed down the alleyway ahead to High Street. Turn left and walk to the mini roundabout at the entrance to High Street car park. Walk through the car park to the picnic area in front of the river, and then along the path between the football field and picnic area, with the river on the right. Pass under a bridge next to the river and over the embankment ahead, via two sets of concrete steps, to the entrance to the Millennium Green.

2. SD 4958 4561 Proceed through the Millennium Green, past sculptures of a Hand and a Dipper bird to the gate at its north end leading onto Wyre Lane. Turn right to where a path leaves the lane on the left, between two hedge lines. Follow this over the river footbridge, turn left and continue along the river, through two gates to the top of Broom Hill. Continue along the left field boundary by

the stream. Eventually the path leaves the boundary and leads across the field to a gate leading onto Hazelhead Lane.

3. SD 5029 4692 Cross the lane and bear right, then left, into the yard of a small factory next to the railway. Go diagonally across the yard and cross the railway footbridge, and the motorway bridge beyond it. Follow the track straight ahead, over a stile and beside Long Crossey Wood, over a stile by a farm gate, to join Higher Lane.

4. SD 5102 4711 Turn left along the lane and just past the barn conversion called ‘Throstle Nest Farm’ on the left, take the bridleway on the right up Grize Dale. Continue along this path by the stream for 1.8 km (1.1 miles) through three gates, to Grizedale Reservoir. Walk past the reservoir and locate the permissive path to Grizedale Bridge on the right. Follow this path beside the reservoir and then along the stream which feeds it, through a gate and over a footbridge, along the boardwalk and eventually to a gate leading out of the wood. Continue on to a footbridge and some stone steps up to a farm track. Turn right along the track, through three farm gates to the Grize Dale Bridge car park on Delph Lane.

5. SD 5356 4910 Turn right (South) along Delph Lane, uphill, to locate a gated farm track on the right just past the roadway entrance to Grizedale Lea Reservoir (United Utilities). Access the farm track via a stile next to the field gate and follow this, passing through two pedestrian gates, past some aerials on the left, to the crossing of four tracks. Turn right at the crossing and follow the track over a stile and straight past Moor House (on the right), ignoring the lane on the left. After 120m turn sharp right, through a pedestrian gate and follow the right hand field boundary for a further 130m before turning sharp left in front of a field gate. Continue with the field boundary on your right, over two more stiles and past a small wood on the right, to a sharp right turn in the track with a public footpath sign pointing to the left over a stile.

6. SD 5197 4712 Take the footpath left across the

(0.6 miles), first along the River Wyre and then along its tributary, the River Calder. Continue along the left side of some playing fields to reach the B6430 at Calder Bridge.

8. SD 4990 4330 Cross the B6430 and go over the bridge then immediately right over two stiles. Walk along the left hand edge of the fields beyond, through several ‘squeeze’ stiles, to join a lane. Turn right and follow the lane for 300m (330 yards) turning left in front of the farm to the bridge over the canal.

9. SD 5065 4344 At the bridge join the canal towpath, via the small gate on the right, and follow this with the canal on your right, for 3.4 km (2.1 miles) to reach bridge number 62 where you first joined the canal. Go under the bridge and turn immediately left to join the footpath on Kepple Lane. Go over the bridge and return to Cherestanc Square via Church Street and Park Hill Road.