Bolton By Bowland

Sunday, 11th July

15 Kms (9.6 miles)

Really strong winds meant that we postponed our planned high level route and instead we headed out for our longest walk of the year to date.  This route came from Country Walking Magazine that I picked up in Leeds City Station one evening on the way back from work and, as a replacement, it was absolutely fantastic.

The land around Botlon by Bowland was, for a long time, private property and access to it was forbidden. Thankfully, the area is now accessible by all and what a joy it was.  Excellent walking and excellent scenery. 

The first section of the walk takes you from Bolton by Bowland to the village of Sawley.  There was adequate parking next to the bridge in Bolton by Bowland (GR: SD 785495), and it has the added bonus (for a Yorkshireman at least) of being free.  After leaving the village the route heads out across arable land where the farmer has "cut" the path through his crops !  Very considerate but also very easy to follow.  In not time at all the first 3km are under your belt as you emerge onto the road next to Sawley Bridge.

After crossing the bridge you pick up the Ribble Way which climbs out of Sawley and affords fantastic views of Pendle Hill - a looming presence throughout this part of the walk.  The route rises to Gisburn Cotes before dropping down to the riverside and a perfect place for a picnic !

Continuing along you eventually emerge onto the road near Gisburne Park and begin a 2km stretch along the road before leaving it at Park House Farm.  Here we purchased 1/2 dozen free range eggs for the bargain price of £1.00.  Sadly, we won't be able to return the egg box as is suggested but we are looking forward to a hearty breakfast one morning this week.

This section is slightly more indistinct than the others and is not a clearly signposted but, thanks to the GPS, we eventually emerged at the head of the village and dropped down through it to the car park.

I think both of us were feeling the strain by the end.  Me with a sore ankle and Gill with an aching hip. However, recovery did not take too long and the heart feels gladdened and stronger after some exercise through lovely countryside.


Some pictures are available from this link.   The walk means that I've now completed approximately 142 miles since February.  Can I make 150 next weekend ??