Midge Walkers
Walton le Dale - 14th April 2024
Dog Kennel & Carr Wood Circular
Now that Spring has officially begun and the lighter nights are with us, we are all supposed to feel better. Sunday the 14th was a sunny dry day, perfect for our walk. A suitable route had been selected, which we were told would be stile free, flat and good underfoot.
Our group of 12 which included 2 new members (145 & 146) better known to many of us as Chris and Bill, set off from the meeting point on Brownedge Close at 1.50. Taking the path into Central Park leading us through the tree lined route of Dog Kennel and Cock Shott Woods, emerging on to Hennel Lane where we turned left, immediately crossing the footbridge over the main A6, London Way. Continuing along the other side of Hennel Lane, past the Hunters Pub formerly the Welcome Inn, we turned right at Millwood Rd to arrive at Carrwood Rd where we crossed to join a path to lead us along side a field and towards the wood.
In the field, standing alertly looking back at us from a safe distance, a young deer could be clearly seen, which was soon joined by 2 others, which after a short time scampered away into the trees. Our route took us into Carr Wood which had areas blanketed with bluebells and wild garlic making it
particularly scenic. The path emerged on to Winery Lane adjacent to a water treatment plant, where another track around its rear perimeter led us to the Old Tram Road. At this point we took an uphill slope in the direction of Penwortham, soon reaching a junction of pathways, and turning left, found ourselves entering the former Vernons cricket ground on Factory Lane. Once again we used the seats here for our refreshment break,
Suitably revived, we resumed our labours and continued to join Factory Lane and turned left to regain the Old Tram Rd, took the route to the right. After a distance we passed under a bridge which now supported the link road through the former gas works site, carrying Penwortham traffic through to Walton-le-Dale. At the right hand side extensive housing development had swallowed up the former site,
Arriving at Todd Lane North, we were told how this had, in years gone by, been the site of a rail station. Whilst the line ceased for passenger traffic in 1968, it remained open for freight, serving the Gas Works until 1972. Crossing to the opposite side of the road the path continued through a tree lined area, to emerge at London Way. Gaining the opposite side of the dual carriageway a footpath sign pointed us back in to the Park area where we had started some 2 hours earlier. The distance covered was 4.5 miles in perfect conditions and as promised flat, stile-less and conducive to encouraging further future participation. I think it is fair to say everybody thoroughly enjoyed it.
Report by Ray. Lamb
Take a look back on previous walks - click on this link - www.midgewalkers.co.uk
