Tree in the FogIt was a damp and misty day in March when Brian led the party on a 3.5 mile circular walk from the visitor centre in Shibden Park, starting in a southerly direction towards Southawram. Our walk took us past the lake and park. We ascended a stone flagged path to gain height but sadly there were no views. However we enjoyed our exploration of the paths and ginnels en route. We returned to the park via Red beck (red colouration due to the iron content of the local rocks). Species seen were limited but included common field speedwell, red deadnettle, wall rue and common polypody.
BudsFollowing lunch in the environs of the visitor centre the majority of the party continued the walk in a northerly direction to Shibden Mill Inn, passing blankets of snowdrops, through Shibden village and back into the park.
The remaining group made their way up the hill for a visit to Shibden Hall, a wool merchant’s house built in 1420 and now a museum run by Calderdale Council. We returned to the visitor centre for a cuppa before departing.
Margaret