The Vault Regulars

Tuesday, May 15, 2018

Hollingworth Lake stroll.

Yesterday we managed a few hours to ourselves and considering how nice the weather was we decided to get the train to Smithy Bridge and then take our time on the perimeter path.

Its only a short journey from home, in fact its only 2 stops and within the Greater Manchester transport area, which means i travel for free. We were very surprised to see that our train had 3 new carriages and they were virtually empty. It really is annoying that when its busy we usually only have 2 old and dilapidated carriages.

On arrival at Smithy Bridge we crossed the Rochdale canal, which is the reason why Hollingworth Lake was built in 1800. As a water feeder system. Today it is used purely for recreation.




Rochdale Canal at Smithy Bridge.

Hollingworth lake on a cloudless day.
The walk from the station to the lake takes about 10 minutes. Once at the lake the hardest decision we had to make was do we go clockwise or anti? We chose clockwise and seeing that it had gone 12 o'clock thought we would have lunch in the Wine Press, the white building in the above image.

The lake shops and the pathway were quite busy for a Monday. There was even a queue all the way outside Mr Thomas's fish and chip shop. The amount of rubbish scattered around was quite appalling. 
Obviously the rubbish bins are to small to accommodate the weekends revellers. It would have been chocker block here on Saturday and Sunday.

 The Wine Press was doing a good trade, we opted for Ploughman's Lunch and a bottle of Chianti.
The Ploughmans was ok but it could have have been so much better for a small amount of extra cost. It was only £6.95. It was also served on a slate which i hate. What's wrong with a white plate.
 Looking across to Blackstone Edge.
 The above image is off the camping and caravan site which was looking splendid. Its been a while since we came here but i don't recall it looking as good as this.

 Zoom from across the lake of our lunch spot.

 Many new features were noticed along the way, including this Owl. it was a shame to see the Sea Scouts centre closed down though.


 I wish.
It takes about an hour to walk around the lake and at the mid point there is a cafe and toilets facility. Its a lovely stroll and was perfect for us, time wise. We couldn't have asked for better weather, so all in all it turned out to be very pleasant. We needed to be out and get a little bit of time to ourselves. 
It also proved how unfit i am. 

7 comments:

  1. Good to see you getting out. Super photos. I raced a Merlin Rocket with my brother at Hollingworth for two years back in the 60s - great fun.

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  2. Thanks Conrad. I think my legs have forgotten what they are for. We would like to see a photo of your Merlin Rocket.

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    1. I tried to put a link with Dropbox. i have been using them for ages but there seemed to be some sort of glitch. I will post the only two photos I have on my blog tomorrow all beings well.

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  3. Looks a splendid walk, great to see you getting out.

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  4. It’s nice Dawn, just for a quick bit of fresh air. Nice camp site too. We are managing a few hours a week to get out.

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  5. Great to get out in such splendid weather. I shall have to dig out a map - I know Blackstone Edge, but I'm struggling to remember the lake.

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    1. Worth a day out Mark. Or a weekend backpacking.

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