Preston and the Ribble

Jim Grindle

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A walk entirely within the boundaries of Preston may not sound appealing at first, but it can be done with only a short section on a road. The Ribble can be followed through parks, both formal and country and across farmland with views up the valley as the city is left behind. Much of the route is gravelled, including part of a national cycling trail, so that there is the bonus in winter of mostly dry terrain. The river is excellent for birdlife at all times of year and there is a minimum of climbing. The outward leg is signposted for the Ribble Way.

England - North England - Lancashire - Ribble Valley

Features

Ancient Monument, Birds, Butterflies, Church, Flowers, Gift Shop, Great Views, Mostly Flat, Play Area, Pub, Public Transport, Restaurant, River, Toilets, Wildlife

6/22/2014 - MAUREEN STANDING

The footpath at way mark 15 near the sewage works is closed. The sign states that it will be closed until the Spring of 2014. We did the walk 14th June 2014 and the path is still closed.

11/21/2010 - Penelope Pitty

Three years exactly since I last attempted this walk and no problems! Plenty of fishermen lining the banks of the Ribble. I found that there is now a cafe in the park, and the toilets are inside this. I didn't stop (had the dog with me) but it looked inviting. I also spotted that it is possible to park at the back of the Shawe's Arms pub, off the A6, which would be useful for anyone setting out from Waymark 4.

11/21/2007 - Penelope Pitty

I was checking this walk today (21 November) and found that part of the route on the north bank of the Ribble near Fishwick (Melling's Wood section) has been closed for 12 months from September to allow United Utilities to do some work.

7/4/2005 - Michael and Marian Vaughn

Walked the 1.5 miles from home to the start and back so quite a long walk but straightaway the scenery is lovely. We had walked the outward section as part of the Ribble Way but the return was equally picturesque. Be careful at Waymark 7 where the path is very eroded and at this time of year the vegetation is thick the nettles are fierce! The Shawes Arms at Waymark 4 serves a very nice meal.