~Pendle Hill~
1st January 2010
What a great way to start the new year and new decade. My local fell, my first mountain climbed - at 1830ft, I've always considered it to be a mountain. I can see PH from my house and I've lived within sight of this famous local landmark all my life. I've been to the top 30 times in the last three years....
The Summit
Scroll down for photos and a description of the walk
Pendle House
Almost every time I climb Pendle Hill, I try to walk somewhere different or see something new. Photosets of Pendle Hill will not always show the fell in full view. The recent wintry weather changes all the views. Here you see the route from the road, it passes a barn and then turns right before Pendle House.
Fell Wood
The sun tries to brighten things up but is partially hidden behind a snow shower passing over the West side of Nelson and Burnley. Lower Ogden reservoir lies beneath Fell Wood.
Black Moss Reservoirs
Not easy to see! The lower of the two has a frozen surface and lies just beneath the wooded hillside.
Summiteer & Son
Nowadays unusual for my son, Andy, to join me. He fist reached the top 14 years ago, see below. The trig point is always handy for timer shots.
Pendle Cornice
The first time I've seen snow overhanging like this on Pendle Hill. I suppose it's not unusual for a hangover on New Years Day!
The Downham Route
Once, many years ago, I descended to Downham. I've never climbed from this direction and I intend to have a go one day soon.
Andrew's first time on top
Walkers: Andrew Ratcliffe & Me
Time taken: 1hr 40 minutes over a distance of approx. 3 miles
Route: Shortest road to summit route from the Eastern side, up right, along the top, down left.
Weather and conditions: see photos
Greetings Count: Low, not too many clear heads around.
Richard's Refreshment Review: The Cabin in Barley, good food, seating for 20-ish, additional seating outside - helpful for those with dogs. Toliets available in the car park. Couldn't find a website as such, but the link here does show a map of the location and area.
All photos copyright Richard Ratcliffe 2010 ©