Routes Around Rossendale

“Routes around Rossendale” is a new project which aims to encourage people to explore the countryside on their doorstep in Rossendale by foot, horse or bicycle. The project (which is funded by Natural England’s Paths For Communities Programme and Lancashire Environmental Fund) is focused on refurbishing/creating a new a multi user path (3 metres wide) along a section of disused railway in Stacksteads, and signposting 8 circular paths on existing rights of way around Rossendale. A leaflet and web page will be produced, detailing the new path and loop routes, so that walkers, cyclists and horse-riders can make the most of Rossendale’s beautiful countryside and excellent facilities.
As part of the process, guided walks and rides are being held between December 2013 and February 2014 to give newcomers confidence in the routes and in their abilities.
Several guided bridleway rides will be held in the coming weeks for different abilities of riders. Please watch this space for more news. The first ride for experienced riders will be on Sunday 8 December and will take in a recently refurbished byway in Rawtenstall and show people the way along Cribden Side, a notoriously difficult to find route. Festive mulled wine, soup and mince pies will be provided on return. The second ride for experienced riders will be on 12th January, route to be confirmed. For more details visit www.forba.org.uk