Marsden Moor, over March Hill

Distance: 9 miles
Ascent: 450m
Weather: blue sky, warm
Kestrels, long tailed tits,  geese formations.

 

After a fairly late decision to go for a walk (germs permitting) and it being a lovely morning,  we weren't sure if there would be any space in our chosen car park up on Marsden Moor, but there was, and we were set off walking by 11.20am. We went east along the Pennine Way, but soon turned up a path north towards March Hill, following some off road bikes in the distance.

 

I had a play in a boggy bit, then washed hands and antibacc'd, hopefully sufficiently.  As we were coming down the other side of the hill, we saw the off roaders making their way up to the main road, apart from one who was having a bit of difficulty.

 

The day was warmer than expected,  so there was some decoating,  and also some dark contrast in the shadows, making it quite hard at times to see the muddy path under the grass / reeds. Coming to the lane, there was a lot of wet and a bit of map reading practice.

 

Lunch was had overlooking Marsden, stunning in the autumn sunshine and we were visited by ladybirds and butterflies.

 

We went over Pule Hill, the incline (dis) remaining dis today. There was a couple lads coming up the other way, one of whom was struggling a bit and making some rather distressing noises. We gained an hour on Standedge Edge, enjoying the afternoon not quite setting sun.