Walking in a winter wonderland

We can’t promise snow, but South Leeds Walkers offer two chances to come on a winter ramble in Nidderdale during December.
The walks start in Pateley Bridge, going up the side of the Nidd valley until we reach Brimham Rocks, then down to the River Nidd and back along the riverside to Pateley Bridge.

Nidderdale in the Yorkshire Dales

It is only an hour’s drive from South Leeds, the walk is not strenuous – although it is a bit tricky underfoot in places – and takes only 4 or 5 hours, so daylight is not a problem.

The weather in Nidderdale – along with the rest of the UK! – is unpredictable, and so warm and waterproof clothing, including sturdy shoes, is essential.

The walks take place on Saturday 8 December and Sunday 16 December. transport will leave south Leeds around 9am, returning by 6pm. Walks are free, but donations are welcomed. For more information please email: southleedswalkers@gmail.com

South Leeds Walkers undertook two trips last month. The first was to Scotland to climb Ben Nevis (1,345m); the party all reached the summit successfully, and returned safely! Special thanks to Gifting Leeds who gave financial support for the overnight accommodation at the Glen Nevis Hostel.

On the summit of High Street in the Lake District

The second outing was to the Lake District, where everyone reached the summit of High Street (828m), and also the peaks of Mardale Ill Bell (760m) and Kidsty Pike (780m) along the way. The walk was in glorious sunshine, but with an icy wind blowing from the Arctic. The cold weather did not though dampen the enthusiasm of the group, and plans are already afoot for further adventures in 2019.

If you are interested in affordable outdoor experiences, and are reasonably fit, please contact southleedswalkers@gmail.com, or look for ‘South Leeds Hiking Group’ on Facebook.

The South Leeds Walkers was initially set up by Ed Carlisle and the Salvation Army South Leeds Initiative, and is currently coordinated by the Hunslet Rugby Foundation, the community-conscious charity arm of Hunslet RLFC (based at the John Charles Centre for Sport).

 

This post was written by Peter Todd.