Shawclough & Healey April 2021

Close to the west gate of the church yard are the
stocks which are thought to date to the
18th century.
Leaving the churchyard by the west gate we turn
left. After a short distance a path leads off to the
right rising with a steep drop on the right-hand
side. The path soon levels out and takes us
south towards Tonacliffe with Meadowhead and
Horsefield farm’s above us on the left.
On meeting Highgate Lane, we turn left and a
few yards further on leave the lane turning right
to follow the signed footpath downhill to Ending
Rake where we turn left. The route takes us
through the rock-strewn valley of Healey Stones.
The track eventually meets Toad Leach Lane but
straight ahead is a small gate which leads us
back towards Syke. This is a paved path and a
part of an old packhorse route. As it crosses the
fields it has been slightly elevated with drainage
channels on either side. You might notice the
ridges which run across the field and under the
packhorse trail. These are possibly part of a
medieval ridge and furrow field system.
Walk through the newly planted John Hudson
memorial garden and take the steep path down
to the left which takes you back to Dewhirst road
where you turn right and soon arrive back at
Syke Chapel.
Syke Walk and Talk Group was
formed almost 15 years ago
We offer at least 2 walks each Friday all year
round and attempt to provide suitable walks
for all abilities. The walks are entirely free.
Toilet facilities are normally available at Syke
Chapel who are also able to offer tea/coffee
and biscuits at modest prices after the walk.
The walks are led by trained walk leaders
with a good knowledge of the Syke area.
Walks leave on Friday’s at 10am. Please
arrive around 9.45am for registration.
The meeting point is outside Syke
Chapel, Syke Road OL12 9TF
Our walks utilise public footpaths, roads
around Syke in all weathers. It is important
to come properly equipped with boots and
suitable clothing.
Covid-19
We are currently unable to offer walks
due to the government restrictions but
are hoping to restart in April. For further
information please contact Danny Smith
our walk co-ordinator at Living Well
telephone number 01706 751190.
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