Sunday August 4th

Meltham to West Nab


We chose to do a walk from Day Walks in the South Pennines and it did not disappoint. We parked in Meltham and headed off, very soon leaving the town behind.

The open moorland was gained via a succession of gates, kissing gates, and eventually Royd Edge.
One kissing gate

Another kissing gate with attendant shrubbery
 

The track went up to the busy Wessenden Head Road, but a quick walk, passing the Cock Crowing Stone, led us up towards Meltham Moor.

Just in case you didn't know...

 There had been serious moorland fires during the week and the National Trust notice suggested that the air quality was still bad, but we decided to press on and see how things were. We gained the trig point at West Nab and could see areas of still smouldering moor, but as our route did not involve going down into the affected areas, we continued.

There followed a steep descent down Leyzing Clough and the familiar sight of the Wessenden Reservoirs came into view and also the top path which runs along the side of Wessenden Valley. We took this path which runs parallel to the water course, all the way to the Deer Hill Conduit. The water course is an impressive sight, as are the dry stone bridges built along the route although some bridges are rather neglected.

Two-arched bridge in good condition

There was no shooting going on so we were able to pass through the Range and make our way up to the quarry workings. This was a pleasant section of the walk as the heather was  in bloom and the quarry reminded us of the area’s important industrial past.

Quarry workings and heather

We worked out way down to  Deer Hill reservoir and began the journey back to Meltham. In some respects, this section of the walk was tedious as there was frequent climbing over unforgiving stone stiles along the continuing water course. The little dam we passed was interesting but it seemed to take a long time to reach the road leading eventually back to the town although this section was lightened by some lovely highland cattle.

Overall though an interesting walk with some new bits and some familiar bits, plus evidence of the enterprising reservoir/water course builders of the past.

9.6 miles with 440m ascent.








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