Nicky Nook, Scorton

Walk Leader:  Richard Priest

Distance: 9 miles

Weather: Sizzlingly hot with not a spot of the wet stuff in sight - what a pity I left the sunscreen on the kitchen worktop!!

Despite motorway travails 14 walkers made it successfully to the starting point in down town Scorton. We also had one very well behaved canine who only barked once.   

Setting out from the Priory we left Scorton via a scenic motorway bridge over the M6 and thereby entered the Trough of Bowland. We then walked down through the splendid Snow Hill Wood, no chance of snow today!! Thereafter we walked through pleasant pastures accompanied by the soporific sound of cars droning past on the adjacent motorway.

The next place of note was the lovely Grize Dale with its enchanting woodland and stream. It also supplied blessed relief from the sun - mental note to bring a hat in future. 

Then came the walking challenge of the day, climbing the wonky steps to the top of Nicky Nook. We all huffed and puffed up the stairs, with the exception of Ken who charged off to the top. The view more than compensated for our efforts, though sadly the Cumbrian Fells were mere smudges on the horizon. We sat down for lunch near the trig point while picking out the points of interest in the distance.

After lunch we walked down the hill and re-entered Grize Dale Wood. On resurfacing into the sunshine we came across a huge bull with his many wives. Despite the tempting fells beyond none of us considered trespassing on the territory of this "monumentally" proportioned beast.      

Thereafter we wandered through the pleasant lanes and elysian fields thankful for a cooling breeze. Upon returning to Scorton several of our companions raced into the Priory for a soothing balm to cool off. Phew that was a hot one!!!

Thanks to all those who turned out and in particular to Doreen for taking these fine pictures. 

Richard Priest

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