24th September 2013

Tuesday, 24th September 2013

Walk:	Fairy Glen, Leeds & Liverpool Canal, Martin's Farm, Ashurst Beacon, Ashleigh Farm, Prescott's Farm, Leeds & Liverpool Canal, Fairy Glen
Start Point:	Lay-by on A5209 near Fairy Glen	Grid Ref:	SD 518 109
Distance:	10.2 miles	Ascent:	1,150 feet
Weather:	Dry with sun in the afternoon	Time:	4.75 hours
Comments:	I have often seen Ashurst Beacon from Parbold Hill, but havd never actually been to it. Today I chose to put that right and completed this easy walk on a pleasant autumn day. Most of the route was good underfoot and reasonably quite straightforward to follow. The terrain is varied from woodland track to field paths and canal side towpaths.

Scroll down to see photos of the walk

Heading into Fairy Glen . . .

a bridge takes the path across Sprodley Brook . . .

where a couple of waterfalls . . .

require closer inspection . . .

even though there isn't much water in them

The cattle are taking their morning rest

The lock gates hint at a big difference in water levels . . .

and the capstan . . .

shows signs of much use

The actual difference in water levels can now be seen

The corn is taller than me . . .

and the cobs are developing nicely

An unusual stile with a wooden arch

Ashurst Beacon, a listed building, built in 1798 from sandstone rubble . . .

and said to be built as a watch tower to warn of a
French invasion.

Unfortunately the views are rather hazy

Leaving the Beacon behind . . .

a quick look at the topograph . . .

which has a sign to one of my frequented spots

Impressive trees in this oak woodland . . .

and impressive fungi - the GPS added to provide perspective

Looking back to Ashurst Beacon . . .

and the onward track has been nicely mown

Reflections in the canal . . .

as I make my way along the canal bank . . .

and past the first bridge . . .

to reach the railway bridge - in time to catch the train

The it's back over the bridge to reach the car

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