Ramble: Hurst Green and the River Ribble Group 1
Overview
Hurst Green is one of the many historic villages around the pretty market town of Clitheroe and is well known for its Jesuit College Stoneyhurst. JRR Tolkien visited Hurst Green many times whilst his son studied for the priesthood, staying in the Shireburn Arms Hotel in the village. The surrounding area is considered as the inspiration for the Shire, home of the Hobbits and is said to be where he wrote his follow up to The Hobbit.
It's initially fairly muddy through some fields before and after we descend to the River Ribble, but worthwhile as the landscape changes once again heading to the impressive Stony Hurst College.
Location & Itinerary
Grade 4/5: 7 Miles - please refer to the Ramble Grading page HERE which also gives you a list of recommended items to bring with you.
Leave the M6 at junction 31 signposted for A59 Preston Centre/Blackburn North/Clitheroe and keep right to go on to the A59 (Whalley Road) towards Clitheroe. Continue on the A59 for 2 1/2 miles then at the roundabout take the 1st left to keep on the A59 (Longsight Road). Continue again for 2 1/2 miles before turning left on to the B6245 (Ribchester Road) continuing for 2.1 miles where you turn right on to Gallows Lane. Continue for 1.6 miles then turn right on to the B6243 (Longridge Road). After 1.5 miles you will find yourself in Hurst Green Village centre where you turn left in to Avenue Road just after the Shireburn Arms.The Village Hall (ABC Memorial Hall) is on the right after a short distance.
We meet in the Village Hall Car Park (ABC Memorial Hall) which is located on Avenue Road in Hurst Green - this is a free car park but they do request a donation towards the upkeep of the car park so please do take some coins with you to make a donation.