~Above Todmorden~
23rd October 2011
Todmorden is in West Yorkshire, just a few miles east of Burnley. On this Sunday afternoon, Karen and I chose to park up in the town and head for the heights.
Alpacas
Scroll down for photos and a description of the walk....
Todmorden Viaduct
Musician
The market stalls were open on this Sunday afternoon and a busker keeps us entertained. Soon enough we were on our way out of the town.
Over The Railway
Stood on the footbridge, looking in the direction of Hebden Bridge. The points lead to the "curve". There are plans to relay track on the "curve" and reconnect Burnley with Manchester, going through Todmorden station. Currently trains to/from Burnley cannot go through Todmorden station. Perfect timing with the hourly service coming along just as we arrived.
Woodlands Avenue, Todmorden
Footpath
After a short and steep climb we find Todmorden Golf Course (behind the camera) and begin to head westwards for views across the valley.
Todmorden
The town hall dominates this aerial view.
Alpaca
One of the farms has several Alpacas. I reviewed these "camelids" on t'internet and I'll offer you one gem: they have communal dung piles where they do not graze. Our local sheep and cows could learn something from these clever beasts.
East Whirlaw Farm
and a closer view...
Border Collie
I want one!!!
Old Trade Route
Many of the stones were worn in the middle, indicating that this is a very old route across the landscape.
Lydgate
Lydgate is the village to the right of the photo. The Calder Valley runs from Portsmouth, thorugh Cornholme and then into Lydgate before arriving in Todmorden.
Route Down
Still on old trade routes and farmtracks, we begin to head down the hillside.
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Walk View |
Under the Railway |
Karen noticed and I agreed that the width of the railway bridge seemed to exceed that of a double-track railway and she wondered if there may have been a siding or loop at this point.
Centre Vale Park
This large park in Todmorden is ideal for families with small children. Main play areas have been rebuilt in recent times.
The New Olympia Picture Palace, Todmorden (dec'd)
Latterly it has been a "cheap" supermarket, but now it is nothing very much.
Hartley's
The Ratcliffe's had lunch here before the walk and very good it was too.
Walkers: Karen and me.
Time taken: 2hrs 10mins over a distance of about 3.5 miles.
Route: As above, anti-clockwise from beneath the viaduct.
Weather and conditions: Generally overcast.
Greetings Count: We met just a few other walkers on the higher parts of the walk.
Richard's Refreshment Review: Hartley's offer a good range of home-cooked food and the service is with a smile!
All photos copyright Richard Ratcliffe 2011 ©
Take me back to the start ....