On Tuesday 14 July 7 of us met at Hanging Shaw car park for a 5.3mile circular walk. After crossing the main road, we immediately picked up and followed the Pennine Way crossing Cronkley Bridge as we made our way towards High Force Waterfall. After a steep ascent we had fantastic views of the Tees Valley looking back towards Cronkley Bridge and in the distance, farmers could be seen busy cutting grass. Below us the river Tees meandered round Calf Holm and Dine Holm Scar. We stopped briefly to admire Bleabeck Force and get our breath back.
As we continued along the Teesdale Way a member of the Botany Group was able to identify for us flora of special significance to Teesdale including Marsh Fragrant Orchid, Bog Asphodel, Northern Bedstraw, Harebells and Marsh Thistle to mention just a few. We also noticed, on the opposite side of the river near Force Garth Quarry, that a non-native plant to the area (Alchemilla Mollis) had taken hold. Force Garth Quarry is still being worked and is a key provider of building material throughout northern England. Dolerite rock, known locally as Whinstone, is quarried from the site.
After High Force the route left the Pennine Way and took us across a footbridge and then up very steep steps (counting was interrupted at 77 steps!) to the High Force Hotel and a welcome break (with facilities) in the shady picnic area.
The final stages of our walk took us across fields behind the hotel towards Ettersgill with a short stretch on a minor road before crossing a series of fields with rough grass and boggy bits just to add variety to the terrain. We were then “on top of the world” with glorious 360-degree views and the sun shining on the golf balls on the distant horizon. The final tricky stile was attacked with gusto and all too soon we were back at the car park.
The weather was perfect, warm but with a cooling breeze and shade in some places. Thanks to Lynda Bares for leading the walk.
Report by Janet Bayles