Local Life - St Helens - June 2019

46
Singing
Portrayed as one of the most iconic artworks in
Lancashire, the Singing Ringing Tree, high on the moors
above Burnley, is one of four local Panopticons and
consists of a unique musical sculpture in the form of
a wind-blown tree. The Tree, along with the attraction
of reaching the summit of Thieveley Pike, makes for
an enjoyable though challenging 5½ mile hike with
wonderful views.
The starting point of the walk is the car park near
the Singing Ringing Tree and the nearest postcode
is BB11 3RT. Follow the single track from the car park
to the clearly visible sculpture in the distance and
once you’ve done the ubiquitous selfies, head past
the sculpture and over the stile. Before you reach the
next dry-stone wall boundary, look to the left for the
pathway winding through moorland and pick up the
trail downhill.
Ringing
Tree by Chris Pearce
Turn right, cross over and look out for the footpath
sign on the left. Take the steps downhill and stay on
the left-hand side of the brook for a few steps, and
then cross the brook and follow the downhill path
towards Dyneley Farm. Go down the stone steps to
the track and turn right.
Follow the path, meandering gently downhill and
passing straight through Stone House Fold, still
heading towards the wind turbines in the distance
until the next farm appears: Scout Farm. Walk along
Clamber over the loose stone
entrance to the next field and follow
the left-hand perimeter of that
rough field as much as you are able.
Navigate your way round the left of the
hollow and carry on downhill towards the steel bar
gate next to the cottage. Go through the gate and
follow the extremely steep driveway to its conclusion
with the main Bacup Road (A671) by Heyne Farm.
Please ensure you wear appropriate clothing and footwear whilst walking. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the walk
is accurate, neither the publisher or its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or
damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or other cause.