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Today I caught the train to Hebden Bridge and walked back to Wardle via Stoodley Pike and a chunk of the Pennine Way. It was hot and sunny and easy going all the way. A bit wet underfoot in places but no real problems. After the initial steep climb, past farms and fields. I was soon on open moor with Stoodley Pike close by. The views were hazy but pleasant with the powerstations near York visible through the haze, quite a long way away. It was fun climbing the steps in the tower as it was pitch black, maybe I should carry a torch? After a quick break it was onwards and... well, flatwards! No real ascents from here on, just easy moist moor walking, often over flagged areas. Plenty of interest along the way though. The army were on exercises up here, paras jumping out of Chinooks and playing wargames. Many odd standing stones and memorials up here as well as lots of signposts leading in virtually every direction. Soon I was at the first of the many reservoirs around here. The walking was almost too easy now, flat as a pancake all the way to Blackstone Edge road. Not much in the way of scenery now though. Pylons, lifeless reservoirs and Manchester were the only things to be seen. I passed the Whitehouse pub and headed down for Littleborough, a fair way below in the valley bottom. Sadly it was tarmac all the way here and quite a busy road. Only two miles to go now and it was all uphill again, it was now very hot and I puffed and panted my way back to the house. A long, easy walk on a good day. Shame about the haze, but it's only to be expected isn't it? Totally enjoyed the walk, didn't enjoy getting up early the next day for our Simon's Seat walk though! A full album is available on Webshots at http://community.webshots.com/album/565530749ygvBzZ |
