Holcombe Brook pub walk 18-07-2026 – leader Bernie

On a lovely morning for walking, 15 walkers and 3 dogs turned out, but we were missing Glyn’s Frodo, who sadly succumbed to lung disease this week, so Bernie dedicated the walk to Frodo.  Also with us today were regular walkers Lorraine and David, on their first pub walk, so we hope they enjoyed it.  Certainly yours truly was very glad to be out with the gang again, and is hoping to be on Sunday walks before too long.

The route is one that we know well, but it is varied, with nice views, so no problem at all.  Into Redisher Woods, with not much water in the brook, though United Utilities tell us they have plenty, which is good to know.  A steepish climb brought us onto a broad grassy/Himalayan Balsam plateau, with long range views ahead, and Holcombe Hill to the right.  Soon we descended to a very nice sheep fold, where the featured image was taken.

 It was then into the MoD firing range, across a bridge, and steeply up to an internal road.  After a while we came off the road to see a memorial to the late Queen’s 70th anniversary, marked by a very nice metal plaque and a board telling us that the Army Cadets had planted 70 Himalayan Birch trees in her honour – appropriately called Snow Queen.

 Soon after, we were at the Army assault course, previously used on the Krypton Factor, where Judy revealed that she had actually been over this very difficult course earlier in her energetic existence!!  After that we skirted the camp to a road that took us to Simon’s Farm and thence back to Redisher Woods.  A stroll along the edge of the woods – avoiding the man-eating brambles (where is snipper Steve when you need him?) took us back to the pub.  

Almost all of the group partook of refreshments/food, and Maureen joined us to enjoy the craic before driving me home.  Many thanks to Bernie for a lovely walk, to Glyn for back marking, and to all for welcoming me back so warmly – very much appreciated.

The next pub walk will be on Thursday 6th August, starting at 7pm from the Duckworth Arms, Shuttleworth.  Full details will be on this website and our Facebook page a week before the walk.