November Ramble – Coast To Carnforth
After last month’s aborted attempt at Parlick, we chose a very flat walk this time, along the Lancashire Coastal Way to Carnforth and returning via the Lancaster Canal.
We started the walk from Hest Bank, having eventually got our cars across the level crossing over the very busy west coast main line. Those Virgin trains certainly go at some speed here.
Our route north was along the coastal path, for the most part quite easy. The weather turned out to be ideal, warm, sunny and with little wind. The tide, something to be respected in these parts, was well in but didn’t provide a problem. After some pleasant walking, we encountered the first of two tricky bits where the grassy area was indented with many water filled channels which took some time to negotiate. But once passed this it was up onto the sea wall and time to admire the splendid view across the bay to the lakes. Another awkward stretch followed and then an easy path took us to join the River Keer channel and then away from the beach to our lunch stop at a convenient old metal seat, facing Warton Crag.
Lunch over, a quiet lane took us to the centre of Carnforth and a Brief Encounter at the station. We spent a little time here looking at the restored features and, of course, having our photo’s taken under the famous clock. Then it was onwards through Carnforth to enter the canal for the three mile trek back to Hest bank. This part of the walk couldn’t have been more different than the first, with a paved path all the way. The canal parallels the A6 most of the way, so wasn’t as tranquil as it usually is, but very pleasant and we passed some beautiful homes on the opposite bank with splendid sea views and a narrow boat called the African Queen with a large picture on the cabin wall of its famous namesake taken from the film.
Eventually, we arrived at bridge No. 118 where we left the canal and walked down to the level crossing. It was closed!
The bird watchers amongst us were pleased with what they had seen and a pleasant day was finished off with tea at the local beach café, watching a beautiful sunset.
Linda & Eddie Grange