GLW2014 : A Wander Under Whitbarrow

Monday 19th October 2020

This was not intended as a GLW.  we just wanted a short leg-stretcher but faffed about trying to decide where to go.  It was too breezy to walk the Scars.  We had recently been to Arnside.  It was time for Grange, perhaps to have lunch in the car, (daren't go in cafes at the moment).  Then we realised there is no view to be had near the front at Grange, thanks to the Railway.

So we drove to Helsington Barrow, had our picnic in the car.  Margaret rang Granny whilst I had a little snooze.  What now?  We could see Whitbarrow Scar directly in front of us, looking inviting with the Autumnal colours.  Sadly I didn't take a picture.  However it enticed us to drive to Mill Side (near Witherslack) for a short stroll.

After passing a very untidy farm, things improved radically with interesting features, smart houses and lots of autumnally colourful trees.

Soon we found ourselves on a lightly wooded track with Whitbarrow Scar high above to out right.  What a pleasant walk it was proving to be.  Why were we not writing it up?  Why don't we write it up?  So here it is!

We continued through the wood as far as Witherslack Hall which has now changed its name to Oversands School (an independent, specialist school, for pupils with special needs and challenging behaviours).

Whenever we pass, I am saddened to see the way that the old stables are dilapidating.  There ought to be something that someone could do with them.

What was more of a surprise was that the playing field was in a very sorry state. The goal posts have gone rusty, the small nets appear abandoned and from the look of the grass, it has not been played on for quite some time.  Is that a Corvid consequence?  It seems hard to believe.

This was our turning point.  We followed the road for half a mile or so, enjoying the panoramic view of Whitbarrow Scar.  

Unfortunately you can't see much of the hall itself.

A bridle path then led us back to where we had first entered the woods at Beck Head following which we retraced our steps past the nice houses......

..... and the pond.....

..... back to the car.

Yet again, a Great Little Walk that deserves revisiting with a bit more planning to turn it into an even Greater Little Walk.

Don, Monday 19th October 2020