A moderate walk of 8.5 miles

The walk starts in the historic village of Dolphinholme on the edge of the Forest of Bowland Area of Oustanding Natural Beauty. The village, now designated as a historic conservation area, played an important part in the Industrial Revolution in the 18th and 19th centuries.

This is an attractive route over high pastures to the picturesque hamlet of Abbeystead, occupied from pre-historic times and known to be the location of a house of Cistercian monks in the reign of Henry II. The return route is alongside the River Wyre with splendid deciduous woodland where tiny streams flow through steep-sided ghylls.

The walk passes in close proximity to cows and sheep in farmyards and fields and there are also numerous stiles. Whilst we are in farmland with livestock it is essential that dogs are kept on a close lead.  Should any lifting be required over stiles or gates this must be done by the dog owner. Dog owners should therefore carefully consider whether it is a good idea to bring their dog on this walk and consult with the leader if in doubt.

The terrain is such that boots are essential and a walking pole would be advisable if normally used. The total ascent is 313 metres (1028 feet).

Numbers on this walk are limited to 30.