Scorton, Grizedale Valley & Nicky Nook - 12 miles

Join us for a scenic Lancashire circular taking in riverside paths, rolling farmland, quiet moorland tracks and one of the county’s best viewpoints. Starting in the pretty village of Scorton, we follow the banks of the River Wyre towards Dolphinholme before climbing onto the open slopes of Harrisend Fell. From there we descend into the peaceful Grizedale valley, then make the steady ascent to Nicky Nook, with its famous summit cairn and panoramic views across Morecambe Bay, the Fylde Coast, Bowland and, on a clear day, the Lakeland Fells.

The route is packed with local history. Scorton was once an important coaching village on the old turnpike road between Lancaster and Preston, and later became famous for the “Scorton Feast” — a huge local fair dating back to the 1700s. The nearby Wyre was historically vital for local mills and farming communities, while Dolphinholme grew during the Industrial Revolution around its large cotton mill, which at one time employed hundreds of workers from the surrounding area.

Nicky Nook itself has long been a local landmark. The summit cairn was built in 1893 to commemorate the wedding of a local landowner’s daughter, and it remains one of the best-loved walking spots in the Forest of Bowland area.

Expect a mixture of riverside paths, fields, woodland tracks and fellside walking with a few steady climbs. The views from the higher ground make the effort well worthwhile.

A great route for anyone who enjoys varied countryside, big views and a bit of Lancashire history along the way.

Walk details

• Moderate walk
• Some uphill sections and uneven ground
• Boots recommended
• Please bring suitable clothing for the weather plus food/drink

It’s a dog friendly group so feel free to bring your dog if you’ve got one. Just make sure you have got good recall as there maybe some sheep on the way.

Meet outside The Priory Cafe Postcode PR3 1AU. Parking is available outside the cafe and on the roadside.
Please only RSVP if you definitely intend to come.