Glasson Dock Circular: Canal, Country & Coast 9 Mile Walk

The trail route is inland to the South East along a branch of the Lancaster Canal which is conveniently 200 years old this year, before turning West toward the sea passing to the North of the village of Cockerham, then returning Northward to Glasson along the coast and River Lune estuary. Views of the Forest of Bowland and the fells of the Lake District might be possible, weather depending. The marina is scenic in it's own right.

More info:

A mostly flat, picturesque and varied circular walk of no more than 9 miles starting and ending at the Glasson Dock and Marina car park, Bodie Hill, Lancaster, LA2 0DB. Car park OS Grid reference SD446 561. Be ready to rumble at 1030 hrs please.

Maximum altitude for the walk 89ft! There is some road walking on quiet lanes. The nearby Dalton Arms might be the venue for those who want, or need, a drink at the end of the walk.

Parking:

Park in the large car park that runs parallel to the marina. Roadside parking is very limited and NOT recommended, think of the locals please. The road running parallel to the car park is out of bounds as it's a clearway. Parking costs approx £5 depending on the length of your stay. You have to pick a 'leaving by' time so take account of stopping for refreshments or going for a dip in the dock after the walk etc. Payment is by machine with a card or by phone/app. You cannot pay in cash.

Facilities

Toilets across the road from the car park entrance cost 40p and for that you might not even get through the door - beware!

The Quayside Cafe is open from 0900 hrs for early arrivals and breakfast seekers, go over the road bridge between the marina and the dock, and it's on the right. Next door to the cafe is a small convenience store. Even closer there is a takeaway cabin at the end of the car park. By special request, I've sussed out that the cabin and shop both claim to sell ice cream, though possibly not to the same standard as at Downham last weekend.

New members (2 and 4 legs):

If you're a first timer please don't be anxious! Members are friendly, social and there's a roughly equal split of ladies and gentlemen. To find the group, look in the car park for my black pick-up truck. I'll be wearing a yellow-ish fleece to stand out! There seems to be some debate about the yellow, maybe its orange-ish. If it's pouring down I'll put on a yellow jacket!

We love dogs, If you're a dog then please bring your owner if he/ she is well behaved and socialised with other humans.

Good to know:

Please remember food for the trail, plenty of water, sun protection (or waterproofs!) Don't be fooled by the weather at home, it's sometimes different on the coast as was the case on my recon.

See you on Sunday!
Andrew