Spitler's Edge, Tockholes and Darwen Tower.

This outing is going to head out from the village of Belmont and climb up onto Spitlers Edge where we will be able to take in impressive views across the north west. This will lead us down to the ruin of Hollinshead Hall, where there will be spooky tales and lots of dicussion about history in and around the settlement. 

From here, we will pass through the ancient, peaceful woodland of Tockholes to the picturesque hamlet of Ryal Fold where there will be chance to stop at the Ramblers' Country Cafe for refreshments and to use the facilities. After a little break, we will climb Darwen Moor to visit Jubilee Tower. There will be a scenic and undulating traverse of the moor before dropping down over Longworth Moor back to Belmont.

As always, I have designed this walk to be informative and fun, discussing various sites of industrial heritage, historical importance and natural beauty as we pass them. Some of the places of interest featured in this walk include:

Spitlers Edge and Redmonds Edge, with view across Anglezarke Moor and Round Loaf burial site.

Great Hill.

Hollinshead Hall and "Haunted" Well House.

Tockholes Woods.

Jubilee or Darwen Tower.

Longworth Moor.

The overall distance will be 22 kilometres, or around 14 miles, and is expected to take seven to eight hours at a moderate pace and allowing time for refreshment stops. A reasonable level of hill fitness is required to take part in this walk There are rough moorland areas and some steeper sections. If you are for any reason unsure of your ability, please email me via moorstomountains@gmail.com and we can discuss this before making a booking.

This walk is limited to 10 places at £24.00 per person. If you would like to book onto this you MUST head to www.moorstomountains.co.uk and buy a ticket under "Upcoming Guided Walks". As mentioned, there are just twelve spaces going and all bookings have to be done through the website.

Please bear in mind that I have calculated the route duration based on average speeds of clients. The walk may actually be done in a quicker time, but also may take longer than expected based on individual fitness levels within the group.  As mentioned, a reasonable level of hill fitness is required to participate on this route.

It should be mentioned that British weather in the hills can be unpredictable at all times of the year and so it isn't possible to guarantee excellent views on every walk. Multiple weather forecast sources are always studied before any Moors to Mountains activity. Unless there is a potential safety risk posed by the weather, walks will go ahead regardless of conditions.

What to expect when booking a professionally guided activity with Moors to Mountains.

I have had a number of individual clients book on to a group activity who have been anxious about not knowing the others on the day. Most people who join for the first time are in the same situation, but I assure you that you'll be making new friends and feeling comfortable in your surroundings in no time. Not only am I here to keep you safe and lead the group, I like to share my knowlege of each area we visit and engage all participants in interesting conversation. I always make a point of providing a friendly and welcoming experience for all my clients.

While I have led groups all different sizes over the years, all Moors to Mountains groups are designed for smaller parties. The number of participants that I allow for will depend on the terrain. But, I find this allows me to give each individual client the maximum attention throughout an activity. Whether this is to answer questions or helping an individual accross a section of unever terrain. My promise is to deliver that level of care and individual attentiveness to each member of the group.

As your guide, I am a qualified and insured Mountain Leader registered with the British Mountaineering Council. I only operate in areas where I have experience of the terrain and local knowledge. Before I received the ML award, I was already active in organising groups walks and wild camping expeditions across the UK from 2011. In that time, I have been lucky enough to spend time out on the hills and mountains with many people of different backgrounds and abilities. This experience has enabled me to develop an extensive knowledge of particular outdoor areas, and a penchant for designing routes that are both scenic and interesting.

I also hold current DBS and Outdoor First Aid certificates.

Upon booking a space, please don't overlook the Moors to Mountains Footwear, Clothing and Equipment Requirements.

It is imperative to wear clothing that is suitable for both the activity and the time of year. Weather conditions can change very quicky while out and about in the hills. All participants must wear sturdy footwear, approved for use for the booked activity. Advice can be found from any reputable outdoor clothing retailer, and I am personally happy to give guidance prior to the activity. If you have not used an item of footwear, clothing or equipment for a similar activity previously, you must seek advice from me on the durability and suitability before the activity takes place.

Unless advised otherwise, a list of items that participant must have on their person (other than approved footwear) should include:

• Rucksack suitable for the activity. Minimum 20 litres, unless otherwise stated.
• Waterproof coat is essential, and trousers if possible.
• Mid layer, such as a fleece or gillet (synthetic or hydrophobic down).
• Suitable base layers and walking socks. Synthetic materials and Merino wool work best by wicking away sweat.
• Hat and gloves, stowed away in your pack if it is not perceivably cold at the start of the walk.
• IN SUMMER – cap or other sun hat, sunglasses and sun cream!
• Lunch and adequate food provisions..
• At least one litre of water.
• Personal medication, accessible and labelled with dosage information where necessary
• Headtorch, fully charged or with spare batteries.
• Mobile telephone fully charged.

Once a place has been booked on any activity...

I will personally contact each client by email with any relevant information to the specific activity. There will also be a link to a Participation Consent Form that should be completed in good time before any activity takes place. This will ask for important medical information, important contact details and also request consent for me to give first aid where neccesary, take any photographs (or not) and anything else relevant.

Cheers, COLIN.

All my weekend outings are going to offer something of a physical challenge, whether it be distance or terrain, and will be very rewarding. I intend to visit places of interest along the way and share an insight into my knowledge of history, industry, wildlife and geology with you all.

With thirteen years experience in organising and leading walks for Bolton Walking and Outdoors Appreciation Society, and as a qualified Mountain Leader, I hope to provide an opportunity for individuals and groups to head out into the great outdoors in a safe and responsible manner. Please visit www.moorstomountains.co.uk for more information about my background and what I can offer to you.