Helmshore & Buckden Woods – 10/05/2026 – Leader Judy

16 arrived on a lovely sunny dry day, including 3 upgrading from pub walks for the first time, and some rebuilding fitness for various reasons. All managed the walk well and should be proud of themselves.

The walk details said “spring is sprung” and the evidence was all around us with clear views providing the icing on the cake. 

So, we set off along the old railway line to Snig Hole, pausing at the war memorial and sculptures before heading towards Irwell Vale to join the Lancshire and Yorkshire Railway route, pausing at the impressive Lumb viaduct. Next it was a climb up through Buckden Woods, magnificent with all the trees in fresh leaf, plus bluebells and garlic in flower. Just to test further those seeking fitness, there was more climb to Beetle Hill where lunch was taken after a slight descent. Ian and Wayne chose to eat lunch on the hoof after, and climb to Bull Hill trig point at 418 metres. It may have been slightly further than they realised and had them running back as the rest of us were finishing lunch!

Next we descended to Alden Ratchers, crossing the Alden Brook with care, before ascending to 2 recently repaired stiles by our wonderful maintenance team, with Ian being involved with the second. We returned to Helmshore via Tor End and Car Lane, with half going to the Loom Bar after.

Many thanks to Diana for taking the camera and getting some lovely photos, and to Glyn for back marking. The company was pretty good too!

Distance – 6.49 miles     Ascent – 905 feet    M/h 1.8

Pics – Diana      Write up – Judy

‘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