Hurst Green and the Three Rivers
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We’ll start at the centre of Hurst Green where, at the start we'll see part of the armistice day parade.
The walk will start off heading towards the valley of the river Ribble we'll pass by the 19th century built to supply water to Blackburn and Jumbles Rocks, outcrops of limestone which form natural weirs and a ford.
The walk will follow the course of the river Ribble where it swings round to meet the River Calder, close to 17th-century Hacking Hall. Less than ¾ mile we'll pass the confluence of the rivers Ribble and the Hodder, which we’ll follow briefly before passing near Winckley Hall.
Returning to the river at Low Hodder Bridge we'll cross the ancient Cromwell's Bridge – which was built for the Shireburn dynasty in 1562. Legend has it that Cromwell vandalised it, destroying the parapets that impeded the progress of his troops.
We follow the Hodder for about a mile before climbing steeply away to Woodfields. Tolkien stayed in one of these houses. The track passes St Mary's Hall and then reaches Hall Barn Farm.
We’ll pass through the grounds of Stonyhurst College and pass a small observatory, one of a network where observations from it helped the Norwegian physicist Kristian Birkeland confirm the magnetic origin of the Northern Lights.
The walk is dog friendly, but there are places where dogs willl need to be on leads.
What to bring
The kit list below is for information and reference. Please have a read through this and the kit list extras to ensure you're prepared for the day.
Weather in November can be variable and the route of the walk can be muddy in places.
Boots: Hiking boots are arguably the most essential piece of kit when hiking just about anywhere, boots should be in good condition and waterproof, providing good ankle support.
Socks: Walking socks are often overshadowed by those new to hiking, with many novices failing to invest in proper socks. Good walking socks keep your feet dry, preventing the development of blisters. Sports socks and other socks not designed for walking will often become waterlogged, or damaged which can lead to blisters
Walking Trousers: Walking trousers should be of a windproof design and made of a rip stop material, that will stand up to walking through ferns and undergrowth. They should also ideally be water resistant. Jeans are to be avoided, as they are heavy when wet and provide no protection from the elements.
Waterproof Trousers: Waterproof trousers are essential in keeping the legs dry, as water resistant trousers will not keep out any significant rainfall. Walker’s should look for waterproof trousers that are breathable, in order to avoid being soaked with sweat.
Base Layer: A breathable base layer should be chosen in order to let sweat escape from the body. This should ideally consist of a breathable synthetic, specially designed fabric, though a cotton T-Shirt is sufficient.
Mid Layer: A Mid Layer goes on top of the base layer and can be a fleece, or a rugby typed thick shirt. The layering system is important as it allows walkers to quickly adapt to changes in the weather as well as body temperature.
Outer Layer: The outer layer should consist of a windproof jacket or a thick fleece. This is the final layer and walkers should ensure that this layer provides ample warmth.
Waterproof Jacket: A good waterproof jacket is one of the most important pieces of kit you will require when hiking. Walkers should look for a jacket that is both waterproof and breathable in order for them to be protected from sweat. Materials such as Gore-tex are often the best choices.
Rucksack: A good Rucksack that is comfortable to wear is essential, and required to carry both food and equipment. Day sacks should have a capacity of around 30 litres with equipment being placed in water proof bags inside.
Food & drink
There are no pubs or shops on the walk and there isn't a local shop in Hurst Green. It's advised to bring a packed lunch and drinks. At least two litres of water should be brought along with you on the day. Enough food for the duration of this full day walk should also be taken.