Pennine Way Day 2 - Crowden to Standedge

Started walking 7.15am
Distance walked 13 miles
Arrived 4pm

Another fine morning with the promise of heat and an absolutely clear sky. It was a long gradual haul, although with some steep sections, up to Laddow Rocks. Here the path was narrow and cut into the hillside with some dramatic drops to our right. Care was needed. We stopped for second breakfast and coffee at Crowden Great Brook.

The view at second breakfast

After that, much of the Way was paved as it wound its way over moorland up to Black Hill, which is no longer black. Over the years, it has been replanted and is now very pleasant, although it would be pretty wild at other times of the year.

Black Hill

We went on to the A635 at Wessenden Head but were disappointed that the expected snack van wasn't there. We stopped for lunch by Wessenden Head Reservoir when we came across a wooden bench seat - not to be passed up.

There was a steep descent and immediate ascent near the southern end of Butterley Reservoir.

Then it was quite level walking, paved in parts, alongside Black Moss Reservoir to meet the Standedge Trail where we went left to the A62. A verge walk brought us to the Carriage House where we are camped at the rear. We have enjoyed some Turkish food. I camped and ate here on my LEJOG in 2009.

I have some rather painful blisters but these have been dealt with for the second night running. Let's hope they improve tomorrow.