9.35 miles.
Explorer Map No OL31 - North Pennines
The route described here is strenuous, and involves a lot
of travel over unmarked tracks and footpaths. The ground is very difficult,
with plenty of coarse grass and bogs to cross, and there are steep ascents
and descents.
It is ABSOLUTELY essential to use your map and compass over the moorland
sections. Not only are the tracks not marked, but there are plenty of
shake holes and relics of lead mining to cause problems.
This route should NOT be undertaken by anybody not experienced in fell
walking.
For a Memory Map overlay of the walk described, please select the above
link.
(Overlay made with Version 4 of Memory Map)
Start from the Bowlees Picnic Area, near Newbiggin (NY90776
28299).
Leave the picnic area past the Information Centre, taking the farm track
North West as though you were heading for Dirt Pit. However, almost immediately
take the footpath North that leads to Broadley's Gate Farm (NY90821 29759).
This footpath is marked in places, but the walker should use map and compass
to follow it accurately.
From Broadley's Gate Farm take the farm track to Watson's Bridge (NY91006
30174).
Here, cross the road and take the farm track to the disused lead mine
at Flushiemere House (NY90921 31044).
Retrace your steps to Watson's Bridge, and then follow the road to Moor
House (NY91226 29739).
From here take the Bridle Way almost due West to Hudes Hope. However,
note that although the path is sign posted as a Bridle Way there is no
actual path to follow. You MUST use your compass to follow the route.
Descend to the Hudeshope Beck (NY94481 29269).
Take the road South to Club Gill Syke, and follow the footpath where it
leaves the road at NY94211 28334.
From here to the return through Newbiggin to the Bowlees Pincic Area,
it is essential to CAREFULLY follow your map, using field patterns and
your compass. It is quite easy to follow a sheep track and find your self
completely off course.