Our walks this month are from the market town of Clitheroe in the Ribble Valley, known for its Norman Castle and Park. The walks are led by Abby and Val and Bill

A walk (9.5 miles)

The A walk is 9.5 miles with 1257ft ascent and will head out of town into farmland with Pendle Hill ahead. We will cross the A59 and make our way to Mearley Hall. From here we head to Ashendean Clough where we begin a steep and steady climb up to the main plateau to reach the fell runners memorial site. To the east of Pendle hill summit we will begin our descent and head towards Nick of Pendle. Continuing on, our route takes us through Pendleton village, back across A59 and on into Clitheroe.

There is a small section of this walk that involves walking through bracken and as already mentioned, a steep haul up to Mearley Moor via Ashendean Clough. There are also the usual stone stiles, kissing gates etc to negotiate.

B walk (7.5 miles)

The B walk is 7.5 miles with very little climb, no more than 200 ft. Leaving from the rail and bus station we make our way to the River Ribble and follow the river bank on the SE side, crossing over to the NE across fields towards West Bradford village. Following the river bank we approach Grindleton, then cross over through woods above the Ribble and down to follow tracks to the road back to Clitheroe. There are plenty of views across the river. A relaxing walk on a fine day! If we have rain it could be slippery in places.

The route involves roads, field paths, the riverside and woodland. It is mainly flat with a few undulations. There are several stiles and kissing gates.

Clitheroe has lots of independent shops, cafes and pubs for browsing and imbibing post walk, so come and enjoy a fine day out in good company.

Looking down from Castle hill, Clitheroe. (Photo © JohnnyEnglish)