Nicky Nook 2022

There will always be certain hills and mountains that I will return to, a familiar path, and acquainted view and as this year begins, I know I will return to such places in these next twelve months, like visiting old friends.

Nicky Nook, in Lancashire’s Trough of Bowland is one such hill. I returned this month, the first hill of the year as moving house and bad weather had so far stopped play. It was a clear, sunny, but slightly chilly March morn, and it seemed that many others had decided to make the most of the good weather as the place was teaming with people. I was unable to park in my usual place and parked near to Slean End and took the well warn path by Grizedale and toward the reservoir. I then headed up the steep bit to the top.

It was just me and Jake the dog, and a hundred or so others passing by with a friendly nod and hello, many with bouncy spaniels like Jake. Great views all around: Morecambe Bay, the nearby hills, and also the faraway hills of the Lakes District sitting there invitingly (I will be seeing you soon enough!) From here, I made my way across the summit plateaux and down.

First hill of 2022 done…