~Pendle Hill~
30th December 2009
The last Pendle Hill ascent of 2009. It was not the best idea to go up on this day, but I like a challenge and this certainly proved to be one....
The Summit
Scroll down for photos and a description of the walk
Newchurch-In-Pendle
This is the first time I've started a Pendle Hill ascent from Newchurch-In-Pendle. One reason for this was the state of the roads and there is a steep descent into Barley that I wanted to avoid. This building used to be The Lamb Inn from a time when every village had a village pub. Now it's a B&B, which is fair enough, it beats having the windows boarded up.
Out of Newchurch
The village of Newchurch is left behind as I join the Pendle Way and move in the direction of the Hill.
Lower Ogden Reservoir
If you look carefully, you will see two figures on the track on the far side. We met soon after this photo and I was recognised by Rachel. Tony and Rachel had bought the family home from my mum after dad died. They live in a lovely house, the one I grew up in and good luck to them and their young family.
Upper Ogden Reservoir
The notice rather gives it away. Nice to see local water supplies topped up.
On the up
I leave Ogden Clough and start the ascent towards the summit. It's not going to be pleasant.
The Runner
This chap was on his way down. Small cairns show this route and I struggled to see them, but sometimes I could see his footprints and that helped me navigate.
Summit Struggle
I was blown over more than once on the summit plateau. I just managed to touch the trig when I was bundled over and ended up on the floor like the chap in the photo. The condtions were awful.
The Stile
Very difficult to take photos with the wind gusting to gale force. I had to cover my face as a turned to find the top of the steps, the "tourist route" to the top - no tourists here today.
Adventurers
Some of this party turned back, no shame in that.
The Cabin, Barley
Looking Back
Heading back to Newchurch, the storm that affected me on the summit appears to have moved on, but it's still going to be a bleak place for any walkers.
Walkers: Just Me
Time taken: 3hr 15 minutes over a distance of approx. 5 miles, including the lunch break.
Route: Newchurch-In-Pendle, Fell Wood, Ogden Clough, Summit Plateau, The Steps, Barley, Newchurch.
Weather and conditions: Cold and very windy on the top
Greetings Count: Low, and impossible to offer meaningful greetings on the summit. Not the right conditions for passing the time of day.
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. Very quiet today.
All photos copyright Richard Ratcliffe 2009 ©