Tuesday, 30th April 2013

 

Walk: Langcliffe, Catrigg Force, Stainforth, Stainforth Force, Smearsett Scar, Pot Scar, Feizor, Giggleswick Scar, Ribble Way
Start Point: Langcliffe car park Grid Ref: SD 823 651
Distance: 10.3 miles Ascent: 1,940 feet
Weather: Sunny and mild with a slight breeze Time: 5 hours
Comments: A last minute decision took me to Langcliffe for the start of one of my favourite walks over Smearsett Scar. With a beautiful day forecast and very little wind an enjoyable day was expected and it didn't disappoint. Catrigg Force was as picturesque as ever and the low level of the water at the stepping stones meant that I could navigate the extra wide space in the middle of the beck. Stainforth Force provided a good spot for elevenses and then it was time to head up to the limestone ridge of Smearsett Scar. With little wind it was a joy to walk the ridge and make my way back via Giggleswick Scar. The sun managed to avoid the clouds for most of the day making sure that I didn't need a coat all day.

Scroll down to see photos of the walk

The route is to the right of Stainforth Scar . . .

 

and looking back along the route

 

Pen-y-Ghent can be seen from Upper Winskill

 

Catrigg Force viewed from above . . .

 

and again from below . . .

 

with a closer up view

 

Smearsett Scar from the path into Stainforth

 

Stainforth stepping stone . . .

 

which have a rather large gap in the middle (good job the water is quite shallow)

 

St Peter's Church . . .

 

the Parish Church of Stainforth

 

Stainforth Force . . .

 

which isn't far from a narrow road

 

It's good to see the sheep out in the fields again after the severe weather conditions

 

Now this really is a 'green lane' in all but name

 

The lambs have come out to play . . .

 

while their mothers enjoy a grassy snack

 

Pen-y-Ghent (from the top of a stile!)

 

Smearsett Scar - with no wind for a change . . .

 

and time to test the timer

 

Looking across to Pot Scar . . .

 

and back to Smearsett Scar . . .

 

where someone else has reached the summit

 

Pot Scar . . .

 

with its summit shelter

 

Looking down on Feizor

 

Spring is here at last . . .

 

as this garden feature demonstartes

 

The cattle are enjoying the grass . . .

 

and the calves are here too

 

Looking across to Settle from Giggleswick Scar

 

Kinsey Cave

 

A colourful roadside display . . .

 

and taking a closer look . . .

 

and closer

 

Crossing the River Ribble at the weir

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