Manchester Weekend Walkers lead public transport walks into fantastic countryside all year round.
The first section of this two-stage walk involves some steep, strenuous climbs with fabulous views of hills, rivers and woodlands to arrive at the Halo sculpture and the woodlands and meadows there, which were created from old quarries.
The second section explores the moors and paths around Whinberry Naze, returning along the fields by the River Irwell.
It is possible to leave the walk after the first part of the route (which is approx. 6 miles) but this walk is still of moderate difficulty with some muddy areas and grassy paths which make boots advisable.
The route includes several stiles.
Bus-based walk
Leader: Imelda
Ascent: 550 metres
Transport to Walk Start: The X43 bus leaving at 10.00 from Manchester Chorlton Street Coach Station (final destination Burnley).
Meet Point: At Stop EZ at Chorlton Street Coach Station. Alternatively, meet the group on the bus or at Rawtenstall Bus Station.
Suggested Ticket: £2 single for each bus journey.
Walk Start: Rawtenstall Bus Station at 10:50
Waypoints: Crossing Burnley Rd at St Mary's Gate, Cribden End, Cribden Hill, Top of Slate, Height End, Whitaker Park, Rawtenstall East Lancs Railway Station, Health Centre, Hall Carr, Whinberry Naze, River Irwell.
Return Services: x:14, x:34 & x:54 until 17:14, then 17:38, 18:06 & 18:36, then x:04 & x:34 until 22:04, then 23:04 & 00:04.
Extra: Toilets at walk start at bus station (20p in cash required). No toilets en route.
