It’s a new year and time to get my boots on. I am out with Crosby Rambling Club on a visit to Slaidburn in the Trough of Bowland. After a week of torrential rain and some localised flooding we had been told to prepare for lots of mud. However a sharp overnight frost had firmed up the ground and it was not too bad.
From the car park we made our way to the centre of the village and the impressive War Memorial where we turned right to cross the bridge over Croasdale Brook. We headed north with the River Hodder to our right.
We reached a lane and crossed the River Hodder at Holmehead Bridge. We now followed farm tracks to Field Head farm and on to reach a lane.
The going was fairly easy although there were a couple of tricky moments.
We ate our lunch by a fast flowing stream. There was a stile on the opposite side but no way to reach it. The wooded footbridge had been swept away.
On reaching the lane we followed it for almost two miles before taking a footpath across fields to to reach the bridge over the River Hodder at Newton. Our route now followed the riverside path which climbed to reach the road leading back to Slaidburn.
We were back in Slaidburn with plenty of time to change out of out boots and enjoy a point in the Hark to Bounty.
The main building dates back to the 16th century and the Inn was known as The Dog until 1875. One day the local squire was out hunting with his pack of hounds and after the hunt returned with his friends to the pub for a pint of ale. Their drinking was disturbed by the baying of the hounds outside. One dog in particular was especially loud. It was the squires dog. The squire shouted out out “Hark to Bounty” and since then the in has been known by that name.
A lovely walk to start the year.
Crosbyman66 
The photographs reflect the beautiful scenery, perfect day for your ramble and an interesting detailed account of your whole day.
Thanks Lorraine. It was good to be out walking with friends on such a perfect day