~Pendle Hill~
8th March 2010
The days are getting longer, there's still some snow on the higher ground, we've had a cloudless day and it's time to take a trip to Pendle Hill to see the sun go down....
The Summit
Scroll down for photos and a description of the walk
Roadside Parking
Sunset will be about 6pm and it's 5:15pm as I park up, plenty of time to get to the top, I usually reckon on 30 minutes from here.
Buckden Pike
I think the snow-topped fell is Buckden Pike and I await confirmation from a man in Silsden. I'm halfway up the steps and on time for the summit photos.
(Mr.Dimmock has been in touch and he thinks it's Buckden Pike, so I'm settling for that at the moment)
Black Moss Reservoirs
The Pendle shadow lengthens and Black Moss Reservoirs lie in front of Foulridge and Barrowford Reservoirs.
The Pendle Shadow
The Wall and Retreating Snowdrifts
I can't be sure I'll see the snow again this time round. The drifts and cornices are shrinking as the days lengthen.
The Stile
Just as I'd hoped, a setting sun and no clouds between me and the sea.
Descending Walkers
This lady, in front, had been up Pendle the day before and had come back for another view. So it's not just me that overclimbs Pendle Hill.
(Catherine has been in touch and identified herself and son Tom in this photo)
The Trig and Sunset
Sunset and Summit
Back at The Stile
Sundown 18:01
Well worth the effort and fourth time lucky since the last time I found a sunset on the fell top. The best sunsets need a little more moisture in the atmosphere and maybe a few high clouds, but this empty sky did not disappoint me. It's great to watch the sun sink over the distant horizon which is part of the Irish Sea.
Walkers: Just Me
Time taken: 1hr 10 minutes over a distance of approx. 2 miles + me-time waiting for the sunset.
Route: Shortest road to summit route from the Eastern side, up right, along the top, down right.
Weather and conditions: Cool, no wind.
Greetings Count: Low, just the usual small number of like-minded individuals.
Richard's Refreshment Review: Nothing to report today.
Two Little Boys....
Richard (l) and Peter, many years ago
All photos copyright Richard Ratcliffe 2010 ©
Take me back to the start ....