Ten walkers started the monthly long walk from Helmshore Textile Museum car park and headed along the disused railway line in the direction of Haslingden. After walking through the graveyard of St James Church we made our way up to the Halo, which is one of four sculptors built to celebrate the industrial achievements of East Lancashire. On a clear day there are good views overlooking the Rossendale Valley and the Yorkshire hills beyond, so we spent some time enjoying the views before continuing our walk.
The Halo
Our route now took us up the steep climb to the summit of Cribden Hill where again we enjoyed the views whilst getting our breath back.
Cribden Hill
At the top of the hill, we turned left, through a stile and continued our walk across Cribden Moor, all the time looking for a suitable place for morning coffee.
Morning Coffee
After our coffee break, we continued over the moor in the direction of Stone Fold, an attractive hamlet which it is said that Charles Westley preached in one of the buildings. We then followed the track through the village of Acre back down into Haslingden where we retraced our steps back to Hemlshore having covered a moderate nine sunny miles.
Heading for Stone Fold