Walking tours on foot around the railway construction site at Ribblehead will take place every Wednesday from July 4th to September 12th inclusive plus Saturday 18th August.
On all days there will be two walks available: a short walk of
approximately two and a half miles covering the shanty town sites,
remains of the brickworks, limekiln, tramway system, presumed site
office etc. This walk returns to Ribblehead at approx. 1.00pm in time for the 13.18 train south or the 13.48 north. The long walk is approx five miles and goes over to Blea Moor to view Littledale, where most of the stone was obtained to construct the viaduct, and the tunnel airshafts. This tour arrives back at Ribblehead at approx. 3.00pm again to connect with the trains (15.27 south, 16.01 north).
On both walks we talk about the history of the railway's construction, the life of the railway builders and refurbishment of the viaduct. We also hope to answer your questions.
Waterproofs, stout footwear (preferably walking boots which must be
worn for the long walk) are essential whatever the weather which at
Ribblehead is unpredictable and sometimes severe. A packed lunch is essential for the long tour.
Please meet at the main building on Ribblehead station at approx
10.20 for either tour - this gives good connections from the trains in
either direction (08.49 from Leeds, 08.53 from Carlisle). There is no
charge but donations would be appreciated.
Whilst every care will be taken, participants must be mindful of their
own safety whilst on the walks and no responsibility can be taken by
FoSCL. Instructions from the leaders must be followed at all times and we reserve the right to shorten, re-route or even cancel walks at
short notice if weather conditions are deemed to be unsafe. We also
reserve the right to ask people not to join us if they are not
suitably kitted out. Please do not take this as being unfriendly or
unwelcoming; there are no serious dangers to the tours - but that is
because we do not take risks!
And lastly - sorry for the strictures! - the walks DO NOT go onto the
Ribblehead viaduct itself.