Walk Leader:  Wendy Hodson

No on walk:     18 + 1 dog

Distance:         12 miles

Weather:         Sunny and dry

Burscough has some of the flattest countryside in West Lancashire.

After a brief history of the town and its major landmarks, we departed the northern platform of Burscough Bridge Railway Station and headed out through the gate sign posted Martin Mere WWF. Turning left we made our way along a narrow track until we reached the level crossing at Crabtree Lane.

We continued along the lane towards Mereside cottage where we ventured left and followed a waymarker directing us towards the Preston and Liverpool railway line. Crossing at the level crossing we continued on until we reached the banks of the Leeds- Liverpool canal. Turning right, we ambled along the tow path, passing distinctive canal cottages and small holdings with a wonderful array of black coated sheep, geese and ducks.

Leaving the canal towpath at bridge number 29, we made our way towards the derelict pub, the Martin Inn and headed across Merscar Junction until we reached the Farm Tree Tea Rooms. (an excellent café serving delicious local dishes)

Following the sign to Martin Mere, we passed a series of fishing ponds on our left and made our way (yet again!) towards the Preston – Liverpool railway line. Here, the fields opened out and the air was filled with the cacophony of skylarks and lapwings.  In the distance we could see the Mere Mill windmill, a listed building and now converted into a house. Upon entering the free section of Martin Mere, we took a well-earned coffee break at a strategically placed hide and then continued on until we reached Tarlscough Lane.

Heading right along the road, we then made our way towards a derelict farm house. Walking alongside several ditches, passing through a kissing gate and over two small bridges we reached the surfaced track of Sandy Lane, where we turned sharp right and made our way towards Mere Sands Wood. Here, we ate lunch amongst the deciduous forest and rhodedendrons. After refuelling, we headed for Rufford Cricket Club, crossed a boardwalk and made our way towards the A59. Crossing the road we entered onto the Rufford branch tow path, where we continued south for 3.5km. At Top Lock we rejoined the Leeds / Liverpool canal and headed towards our final destination, Burscough Bridge. On the way, we passed what was once, Ainscough corn mill, dated 1855 (and now converted into apartments) and Burscough Wharf, a once purpose built vetinary centre.