To Smithybridge and Beyond

 Wednesday 3rd August 2022.         Smithybridge and Beyond 

For today’s adventure the Lads are boarding a Wigan bound train leaving Leeds at 10:18 .

Colin and Malcolm have joined the train at this point with Derek and Dave getting on at Dewsbury, John is hoping to join them at Hebden Bridge which he did, not too many passengers aboard this train just a handful of small children with their carers going on some outing etc. The train eventually arrived at the intended destination of Smithybridge a few minutes later than expected  11:45 due to some problems on the line. From the railway station it took the lads until midday to reach Hollingworth Lake a location in a picturesque setting here in Lancashire.

The lake or reservoir was established  in Victorian times and as now created a local attraction visited by many people of various ages young and old alike even the Lads on this occasion. With a time slot of about 4 hours the lads now started their circumnavigation of the lake heading in a clockwise direction ,following  the now well established footpath and roadway taking in the countryside views from this vantage point.

The weather conditions were favourable with sunny periods from time to time along with a rather stiff breeze at certain locations especially at the Pavilion Cafe where the lads participate in their lunchtime meal. Upon reflection this was a well under par establishment much to the lads surprise considering it’s prominent location, however it didn’t spoil things. From this point their journey continued around the far side of the lake until the Lads found themselves back in the hub of things so to speak, a roadside location packed with several eating and drinking establishments along with the many visitors that thronged this place, before not too long the lads found themselves sat in one of these  pre mentioned establishments the Kraft Cafe taking in the atmosphere whilst enjoying a well deserved coffee break.

 

With the time now reaching quarter past three the lads bid farewell to Hollingworth Lake and began the short walk back towards the railway station at Smithybridge in order to catch the 15:55 train heading for Leeds.

As with the outbound journey John left the train at Hebden Bridge, Derek and Dave at Dewsbury with Colin and Malcolm leaving it at Leeds.

Yet another great day out with the Lads

Different location but enjoyed with the same enthusiasm and fun.

Cheers Lads.