Bleadale Water and Totridge (1627')

Sun 6 Oct 2013

Beautiful morning. I had planned a walk over to Brennand via Ouster Rake and after picking Andrew up set off for the Trough of Bowland at 8:30. While en route near Chipping Andrew remarked on the fine view of Totridge and hinted we should change the proposed route. I agreed we could do it but it would be a strenuous walk and there are streams to cross at Langden Castle. It took a long time to get across the stream without getting soaked but we finally started up alongside Bleadale Water.

"Why do these two-legged types come up here?"

This overhanging birch is a lovely spot for a rest and snack

The path eventually becomes very thin in the upper section. Walkers are usually requested not to use this route during the nesting season. The Hen Harrier, which has been adopted as the emblem of the Bowland area, is still quite rare.

The upper section of Bleadale Water

At the ridge fence we were caught up by a family group among whom four young children. We had a chat with the father and then they continued on their way along by the fence. I opted for the direct path indicated on the OS map instead of following the fence round a considerable bend as the family group were doing, but we were impeded and tired by thick heather when the faint path petered out. As a result the other group had forged well ahead by the time we reached the summit

Who is this guy who keeps popping up on the summits?

I also do reach the summits of these fells (tired)

Although we almost caught them up on the steep descent, before we reached Hareden the family group had completely disappeared and we never saw them again.

Another great day. It's glorious up on them tops!