Irwell Valley Sculpture Trail – 22/03/2026 – Leader Alex
10 Ramblers met on an overcast, but dry morning.
We set off along the Irwell Valley Sculpture Trail through Stacksteads Countryside Park which is well looked after by a small army of volunteers, It wasn’t long before following the old railway line we negotiated the tunnels to emerge near to the site of the old Waterfoot Station. After a while looking at the impressive mural and the monument to the quarry workers, we commenced the main climb of the day through Hugh Mill to join Royds Road and on to the Rooley Moor Road.
Turning left off the Rooley Moor Road we followed a public footpath alongside a wall, over stiles in various states of repair, over a locked gate and a somewhat tricky, rocky descent into Lee Quarry. The quarry ceased operations in the 1990’s after over 100 years of operation and has since become an off road mountain bike facility with marked trails. Many bikes were in evidence today, including unfortunately some motorized vehicles which are actually prohibited.
Leaving the quarry we followed tracks into Stubbylee Park where our break was taken at the convenient benches, opposite an also convenient cafe of which some took advantage. After the park we followed roads for a short distance, before passing through Bacup Cemetary. Many commented on how sad it is to see that many of the gravestones had been laid flat due to safety concerns. Hopefully they’ll be safely erected at some point.
A football match had just finished as we returned to the sculpture trail and then back to the car park.
Thanks to all who attended including:-
Steve S for photos instead of snipping today.
Sue for backmarking.
6 miles
820 feet total ascent.
Average speed around 2 mph.
Write up and leader – Alex Pics – Steve S
‘If you wish to see a static view of the pics all in one go then click here.’
Continuously running slideshow below – you can see it full screen by clicking in top left of picture
Some new paths for me, very good walk with great people. Thanks Alex.
Looks good – sorry I had to miss it. Nice pics, Steve.
An area I’ve never walked before. Lovely and varied scenery.
Thanks Alex.
Thank you for a lovely walk this morning.
Some lovely scenery in an area I’ve never walked previously.
Thank you Alex.