Pennine Way 7 Ponden to Thornton-in-Craven

Another dry day but a very cold blustery wind blowing in our faces for most of the day. We set off along the side of Ponden Reservoir but soon started to climb quite steeply.

There were many signs of spring along the way with numerous sitings of primroses and baby animals.

The walk took us up on to Ickornshaw Moor where we stopped for a quick drink before making our way over the stone slabs and then down past several shooting huts.

Another stop for lunch in a sheltered gulley where contibutions were gratefully accepted from Stuart who had left his lunch on the kitchen table! No matter, he was soon well supplied with a sandwich, banana etc to see him through the day.

Another up and down mainly across fields and the village of Lothersdale with its large mill chimney comes into view.

One last climb for the day and we reached the highest point Pinhaw Beacon (1273 ft). By this time the wind was strong and we didn't linger long at the top. Just long enough to admire the splendid views in every direction.

Just enough time left to reach Thornton-in-Craven in time for the coach to pick us up at 5.00 pm. We have now completed approximately 63 miles of the Pennine Way and the best is yet to come!