Stump Cross to How Stean
On the first Sunday in August, intrepid members of the Burnley and Pendle MGOC set out for the Yorkshire Dales with the original intention of visiting a major classic car show. But, in the event, only Richard and Angela braved the inclement weather to actually go there.
First we met up at Stump Cross Caverns on the way to Pateley Bridge for the BPMGOC ritual of bacon butties and coffee and then, passing through Pateley Bridge where Richard and Angela split off, we followed the Nidderdale Way alongside the scenic Gouthwaite Reservoir, tracked the River Nidderdale to Scar House Reservoir and arrived at its 233 feet high dam, a magnificent masonry structure built in the nineteen thirties to supply water to Bradford by gravity alone. Fortunately, the rain held off long enough for us to enjoy a walk around the area and watch the mountain bikers and four-wheel drive experts disport themselves over the rugged landscape after which we retraced our steps somewhat for an excellent lunch at the How Stean Gorge visitor Centre. Fortunately, our appetites were not spoiled by standing on its rather intimidating glass floor looking down on the gorge though, I for one, was not sorry it wasn’t actually under the table … Then home and, by the way, Angela’s hound won first prize for the most handsome male dog at the Show! Next month to Arley Hall and Great British Car Sow’s event there.
