Leaders
Malcolm & John
Description
The walk is about 5 miles all on good paths and tracks (occasional mud, puddles and stony sections) with a couple of short, fairly gentle ascents.
The very varied scenery includes: a riverside walk; wooded Healey Dell nature reserve including the Fairies’ Chapel where the river Spodden has cut a spectacular gorge; the small “Scottish Glen” where Hopwood Hall is located; Man Stone Edge with Pennine views; and the conservation area of Whitworth village square, home of the renowned 19th century Whitworth Doctors.
Bring a packed lunch as there is nothing en route. The Red Lion Inn (1679 date stone) in Whitworth Square near the end of the walk has outside seating, serves food and has cask ale. There is Basil’s English restaurant too on the main road. Both open subject to COVID Secure restrictions.
Starting point and time
Meet at 12.30 in the centre of Whitworth on the A671 to Bacup at its junction with Hall St. by the Tattoo Studio. Postcode OL12 8TL and Grid ref. 885177
Directions to Start
To reach Whitworth leave the M62 at J20 and follow the A627(M) heading for Rochdale. Continue on to Edinburgh Way (A664) then right on to the A58 towards Littleborough/Todmorden. After 1.0 mile turn left into Spotland Rd (A680) and then follow B6377 towards Bacup and Burnley. After 1.5 miles turn left into Market St (A671 Bacup/Burnley). Continue for another 1.5 miles to Whitworth, where you will see on the right a large white building, Basil’s restaurant. The Lucky 13 tattoo studio and Hall St. are immediately on the left. Turn left into Hall St and there is plenty of on-street parking especially first left on Massey Croft by the old folks’ home.
Contact
John 07852 236 378
Changes and cancellation
In the event that there are any changes to the regulations (for example a further lockdown) before the walk, which means that it will not be able to proceed, an email will be sent to everyone booked on the walk. Very occasionally, due to severe weather or another serious event, a walk may be cancelled. In these instances, a note will be added to the website at least TWO hours before Start Time. So, do check the website before you set out, and if in doubt use the walk leader’s mobile contact number.
If you need to cancel contact general@outonsunday.co.uk. If it’s on the day please call the Walk Leader instead.
COVID-19
Remember that social distancing applies throughout the walk, and bring face covering and hand sanitiser, just in case. If you are car-sharing or using public transport, follow the relevant rules and guidance.
Click here to take you to the walk booking system