Edisford Bridge, Clitheroe
The walk starts and ends at Edisford Bridge, Clitheroe, over the River Ribble, which until 1600 was the only bridge over the river north of Preston and as a consequence has had a rich historical significance throughout the centuries.. In view of the travelling distance for most (and the fact the days are getting longer) the start time is 10.30 from the Visitors’ Car Park which is situated just to the east of the river. This is a Pay and Display Car Park with a fee of £3.20 for up to 5 hours although for £4.00 the time is unlimited until 6.00 pm. Edisford Bridge on Edisford Road the B6243, Grid Reference SD726414, although those with a satnav will find the car park using the Post Code BB7 3LA. It will be easily noticed as it is opposite The Ribble Pool swimming baths. If you reach the bridge you’ve gone too far! You have 2 choices of route, via the M6 to junction 31, left following the A59 to Samlesbury and left again at the traffic lights (still on the A59) Longsight Road which becomes the Clitheroe By-Pass. As you reach the outskirts of Clitheroe you will see sign post to the town and to Edisford Bridge in the town centre; the second way is via Bowland to Dunsop Bridge and over Waddington Fell to Waddington Village where there is a sign to Edisford Bridge, but if you miss it, continue towards Clitheroe over (or under) the railway and first right past the railway station to the B6243.
The walk is 6.5 miles approx and easy, there being no hill climb of significance and following public footpaths across fields or country lanes to Waddington via Bashall Hall and back via Waddow Hall to Bungersley Bridge and following the river pathway back to the start. There are a number of stiles and some small streams to cross over bridges. We are all used by now to the wet conditions and must come well prepared although there is no known flooding in the area (the Bowland Fells take most of the sting of the heavy rainfall from the west). At present Sunday promises to be sunny with showers and hopefully it will be third time lucky principle following cancellation of the last two Sunday walks however we will keep you informed.
Dogs are allowed but bear in mind there is the potential for very muddy conditions, especially along the Ribble and it is lambing time and due to the many fields we have to cross dogs must be kept on lead where necessary.
To book your place Contact: Mike on his mobile 07720186041 by 8.00pm on Friday 18th February 2022. However Mike has said he will consider anybody who contacts him later, depending on numbers.