Birtle Saturday pub walk 20-06-2026 – leader Bernie

They say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, and Bernie flattered Glyn Beck today by repeating the lovely walk that he did on a lovely Thursday evening last month. Other people must have caught on, as 21 walkers (and 3 dogs) booked on – though one went to the Pack Horse in Affetside, so had a very pleasant solo stroll before joining us for lunch later. 🙂 Stewart from Bury Ramblers was with us again, as was his wife Janet, so it was nice to catch up, and the same applied to Louise from Whalley.

The weather was glorious, with blue skies and warm temperatures, so that we could fully appreciate all the lovely views that this walk offers.   

Setting off from the pub car park, Bernie led us uphill, passing the site of the Normandie restaurant – now a smart block of apartments – and on to Birtle Edge, with terrific and far-reaching views over the Cheesden Valley and across to the Scout Moor wind farm.  Here we turned left onto Scotland Lane, a favourite bridleway of the local horsey fraternity, now with views of Holcombe Hill and Peel Tower . This path took us to Walmersley Golf Club and past Victoria Wood’s childhood home.

It was then down towards Castle Hill, passing the old Bircle School, which Bernie told us was mot a spelling error, to reach a large and lovely lodge, which led on to a smaller one by the Pavilion restaurant. The cottages in this area, with beautiful natural gardens, were quite stunning. Soon we were in the pub, where 15 of us were quickly served with tasty and very well presented food, which – with the chatty social – finished off the morning beautifully.

So thanks to Bernie for leading, to Glyn for the route and for back marking, and to all who came for their lovely company and good wishes.

The next pub walk will be on Thursday 2nd July, starting at 7pm from the Dog and Partridge, Baxenden.  Full details will be on this website and our Facebook page a week before the walk.