2016 02 20 Aiggin Stone Amble


With a forecast of heavy rain all day and strong winds I was astonished to see a keen and enthusiastic group of 9 folk raring to go. One mile in and Julie was raring to go home, so now down to 8.
 
We were walking the route of an ex challenge walk, formerly organised by Calderdale LDWA , and to keep us on the right track we had one of the original walk organisers with us. Of the 2 options we have gone for the shorter, easier option.
 
The route took us above Dobroyd Castle, dropped us down to Gauxholme before the brutal ascent to Freeholds Top. Around Rough Hill to Shore and thence to Hollingworth Lake. A short detour to the Visitors Centre gave brief respite from the wind and rain and lunch was 'enjoyed' under some limited cover. One or two patronised the cafe which had very little custom today.
 
Back via Hoar Edge and the water channel to the White House. We briefly discussed a half mile detour to take in the Aiggin Stone (a medieval marker stone) but it seemed a step too far. Besides it wasn't on the route description.
 
Now a long drag alongside the reservoirs. being buffeted from all directions by the wind. A bit monotonous but at least it was firm underfoot, unlike this morning. Conversation was impossible in the wind.
 
Gaddings Dam and the Basin Stone were  passed before dropping down to the church on the edge of Todmorden and a few minutes were spent looking at the architecture and noting the influence of the Fielden family in the area. Back at the cars before 4pm having walked 20 miles and climbed 4000 feet.
 
A great walk. Would have been even better in more amenable weather.
 
John