After a short drive up the M6 to J36 and parking in the lay-by on the A65 near to the junction there was a felling of elation from the team, almost like a caged animal enjoying its first steps of freedom. What had caused this feeling, the sense of being able to get into the countryside once again after one of the worst Novembers on record for weather in the NW.

Seventeen intrepid souls had gathered on Monday 30^th November 2009 to enjoy a welcome 6-mile harder walk led by Libby Hacking in the Lupton area. The name Lupton has a strange meaning as it is mentioned in the Doomsday book and means, “Farmstead of a man called Hluppe”

It was extremely promising as we set off as we were blessed with good sunny skies but a cold westerly wind. Crossing the very busy A65, we tackled the first section of mud as we headed through the mire to Dove House Farm. Proceeding along minor lanes gave better conditions underfoot as we passed Nook Bridge

Continuing southeast and crossing more very wet fields after a short climb brought us to the beautifully situated farm of Aikbank nestling in the crook of Farleton Fell a welcome halt for a brew was taken here helping to overcome the cold snap of the clear air. 

Continuing east, we crossed the very busy Lupton Beck (which we had been tracking for most of the morning) by a welcome footbridge as we had already negotiated several tricky stiles.

 

Climbing towards Greenlane End, we could see the castellated profile of Lupton Tower. This grade 2-listed building used to be occupied by the Barker family; particularly Sir George Barker the famous orthopaedic surgeon who died in 1950.It became a restaurant but is now a residential training establishment.

As we joined Hutton Roof Lane and walked up the lane to hear the increasing noise of the A65, we had some great news. We learned that what may have been an expensive trip for one of the members was complete relief as they had found their brand new pair of Brasher boots after they thought they had been lost.

Once again negotiating the lorries and cars as they sped along the A65 we swung northeast to start the return trek and reached Boxtrees farm, which used to be a mill and at one time had a factory producing caps, not those for your head but the explosive ones!

As we had been walking for about 2 hours, a welcome stop was taken here for lunch. This was a superb spot with very clear views; even the Shed (BAE’S place) at Barrow in Furness could be seen.

The team were certainly enjoying the opportunity to get outdoors, the team spirit being assisted by members of the group helping others to negotiate yet another difficult stile, principally caused by its height and wet slippery limestone. Crossing a more open area brought us to Crabtree where there was a delightful scene of cows being fed in their barn

This is a large farm, which has diversified by opening a shooting range on its land. Proceeding along the lanes showed that we were very lucky with the conditions and a reflection of the appalling weather in the month as a huge puddle blocked our way. 

Negotiating the blockage successfully we passed Black Yeats which showed signs of serious renovation and solar panels on its roof. The team proceeded North West and under the M6 before spotting the wonderfully located Crooklands church through whose graveyard we passed.

Dropping down to the A65 once more required great care, as there were no pavements and limited vision along the busy road to enable everyone to cross the road. A short stroll along the road and over Crooklands bridge enabled us to drop down onto the safety of the canal walk. It is worth a visit here as there are free trips along the canal here on summer Sundays and bank holidays kindly offered by the Lancaster Canal Trust.

From here, it was a straightforward wander back to the start point. Along this section, there was a charming pair of swans enjoying each other’s company.

So thanks very much Libby for a most enjoyable wander in an area not often visited by walkers racing along the A6 to the Lakes. The sense of satisfaction in the group was distinctly noticeable as they had been able to get outdoors many for the first time in over a month.

 

 

 Alan Sattenstall