Wilsden to Cullingworth

 Wednesday 10th July 2024              Wilsden Wondering 

It would be best foot forward for the Lads today has they tread their way along the scenic paths and country lanes of this particular area of West Yorkshire. The area in question is that of Wilsden and its close neighbour Cullingworth.

It would be a group of 7 that would participate in this adventure, Colin, Mark, Glenn, Derek, Malcolm, Dave and finally John, whose locality we are exploring. The lads all met up at Bingley Railway Station about 10:45 this was in order to catch the little green number 4 bus waiting outside the station, it would then wind it’s way up the country roads leading out of Bingley and on to the far reaches of Wilsden and finally drop them off at a spot known locally as Harecroft. From this point it would be John taking the lead  up a steady incline lane and on towards a great advantage view of the surrounding landscape. Off in the distance we could see our intended target, that of Hewenden Viaduct , a reminder of the Victorian era and the structures that were built to accommodate a vast expanding railway network. This particular section being that of the Great Northern Railway, we would eventually cross this viaduct at some point on our journey, first we have to navigate the country lanes and pathways that would lead us there. 

Several stops along our journey were taken just to appreciate what was out there, the rolling hillsides crisscrossed with drystone walls, cows and sheep grazing in the fields, the odd wind turbines that were dotted all around us talking good advantage of this location. After over an hour’s walking we eventually came to to viaduct and a few moments spent here enjoying its splendour and the magnificent views it provided us with, up to now the weather was favourable with none of the expected rain actually falling on us, a blessing to say the least.

Once we had all successfully crossed the viaduct we continued along the track until we were able to access a suitable roadway taking us into the town of Cullingworth and locate the bus stop and to rest awhile whilst catching our breath from a hurried last few hundred yards or so ,from here where we could take a bus back towards Bingley and take advantage of a local cafe for a well earned lunchtime meal. The premises were that of the Loft Cafe situated on the high street here in Bingley and what an enjoyable meal was had by all, served with very helpful and accommodating staff. 

It was just a short distance from the cafe to the railway station so no need to hurry over our meals as we discussed arrangements for the upcoming trip to Lincoln, eventually some train time schedule was agreed upon. As the cafe clock told us it was a little before 2:30pm Colin and Malcolm made their exit in order to take an earlier train back to Leeds, the rest of us leaving the cafe some 15 minutes later. John remained in Bingley and waved us goodbye as we left the railway station on our way back to Leeds and our further journeys home.

Upon reflection today’s adventure was most enjoyable, being out in the fresh air with great company a little taxing at times with over 4 miles covered,but we were able to overcome these anxieties.

Cheers Everyone.