Whalley Nab| 24 October 2021

Alan Oliver & Patrick Pope

 

This is a 5 mile circular walk in the country surrounding the picturesque town of Whalley, with a challenging uphill walk on tarmac and path near the beginning. It starts on the banks of the River Calder and then ascends steeply over Whalley Nab, the summit of which offers spectacular views over the Calder and Ribble Valleys. We’ll then cross fields using public rights of way and stiles before a stop for lunch at the top of the Nab – bring your lunch.

Then we will descend to Whalley, including walking beneath the imposing 48 red brick arches of the Whalley railway viaduct, which will take us into the centre of Whalley and to its historic medieval Abbey ruins. (note: free entry into the Abbey grounds, though no dogs except guide dogs are permitted).  We’ll end here, giving those interested a chance to enjoy the grounds and gardens: in the grounds there is plenty of external seating and a place to purchase refreshments.

To return to where we park is an 8-minute walk, past Whalley Primary School, right onto ‘the Sands’, continuing to Church Lane and then right onto Kings Street before a left at the Co-Op to take you back on Accrington Road

I look forward to seeing some of you there for some fantastic views across Lancashire.

 

A risk assessment was carried out on 8th October 2021. A summary of identified risks is below: –

Roads – the early stretch of the walk is partly up Whalley Nab on a road with no pavement:  walkers should be aware of the likelihood of traffic.  A later part of the walk has a section along a grass verge of the very busy A59: walkers should stay on the verge and walk in single file.

Terrain – walk includes steep walk on tarmac road, crossing farmland which may be muddy.  There is a steep descent through a grassed field immediately after our lunch stop: extra care should be taken.   There are several stiles and a couple of unavoidable cattle grids. 

Giant Hogweed – a short section at the very beginning of the walk is marked with a warning of the presence of Giant Hogweed.  This can cause severe burns to the skin on contact.  On the recce in early October the path was walkable without brushing past undergrowth: walkers are advised to wear long trousers.  Avoid contact with foliage in this part of the walk and advise the walk leader immediately of any symptoms.

Livestock – we will be crossing farmland with livestock, and the spot where we will eat is in a field which had sheep in it on the recce.  If you bring a dog please ensure it is on a lead.

Weather – October can be wet, cold and windy, so bring appropriate clothing. Sturdy walking shoes are recommended, as it may be muddy in some places. 

Covid 19 – risk of transmission now reduced, walkers need to decide for themselves what precautions to take. Face coverings are still recommended for public transport and in pubs and cafes