How can you visit York without leaving Lancashire? The answer to this conundrum is to be found high on a windy ridge above the Ribble Valley. Originally called New York because of its remote situation, the village which was founded by "stone getters" dates back to Lord Nelson's time, hence the name of its splendid hostelry. It was a welcome surprise to find the pub open mid-afternoon and, as we studied the list of landlords dating back to 1825, the chef said with a grin "Be sure and mention I come from Bolton".
LOCATION: Three miles north-east of Blackburn
START: From A6119 turn right up Whalley Old Rd, then 2nd right at Olde Shepherds Rest, signed Great Harwood. Layby one mile on right.
Grid ref: SD716323 Postcode: BB6 7UX
DISTANCE: 4 miles
GRADE: Easy
TIME: 2 hours
MAP: Explorer OL - West Pennine Moors Landranger 103
REFRESHMENTS: Lord Nelson
EN ROUTE: Parsonage Reservoir, Little Snodworth
This walk was originally published by
The Manchester Evening News