Spring walks – Lune Valley, Lancashire

ONE of the legends about how Devil’s Bridge got its name claims that an old woman, whose cow and pony strayed into the river, made a promise to the Devil that if he raised a bridge so that her stock could cross, he could have the first thing to do so.

Early next morning the old woman threw a bun over the bridge and her mangy dog ran after it. The devil, expecting he would gain a pony or a cow, vanished angrily in flames.
 
1] From the parking area, cross the road and go through the entrance opposite just before Devil’s Bridge and descend steps to a path beside the river. Pause to look at the magnificent 15th century twin-arched bridge and its lovely surrounds. Go on towards the next bridge and wind up a little right to cross the A65, with care. Descend more steps to continue on the Lune Valley ramble.

2] Walk on downstream to pass the next bridge, which carries great pipes over the Lune for the water company. Then take the small bypass of the river bank over two step stiles to rejoin the riverside. Carry on beside the river to reach an area where the New Year floods have worn the banking. This bit of the path demands more energy and care. Stroll on, sometimes high above the river and sometimes close beside it, until you can see the houses of Nether Burrow. Here take a hedged way, Burrow Mill Lane, that leads you to the large village of Whittington.

3] Cross the B6254 and after a few steps left, take the entrance on the right to walk the long track leading to the Church of St Michael the Archangel, high on its little hill, where a seat in the churchyard provides delightful views for your first break. Stroll round the church to join the road and descend to a junction. Turn left to walk the busy B-road, facing the oncoming traffic, for ¼ mile and, at a wide bend left, take a hedged track descending right to cross a footbridge over a small stream.  

4] Beyond, the right of way continues along the right boundary to a stile to the river bank. If it is too difficult to climb because of an awkward overgrown thorn bush walk left along the boundary to come to a track on your right and go through a metal gate, right. Beyond, turn left and use your outward route to return to Kirkby Lonsdale.

INFORMATION
Distance: 5½ miles

Time: 2-3 hours

Height gain: Virtually none

Terrain: Generally good walking on grassy paths and a track. Some road walking

Public transport: Traveline 0300 123 4050

Park: Free parking just before (west) of Devil’s Bridge, grid ref 616784

Public toilets: Just before Devil’s Bridge beside parked cars

Refreshments and facilities: Spoilt for choice in Kirkby Lonsdale

Map: OS Explorer OL2

By Mary Welsh. The full version of this article was originally published in Big Issue North, available from vendors across the North West and Yorkshire and Humber (£2.50).

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