Roughlee

Walking Pendle's paths from the saved Bay Horse

- Walk checked out by the Dotcom Walkers. Devised and described by Bob Clare

Enjoy the beautiful scenery on this walk

In a new Channel 4 series Alexander Armstrong highlights pub walks. A pub walk combines my two favourite uses of the word “public” encapsulated in this phrase — a public footpath leading to a public house.

At this time of year there is something deeply appealing about ending a countryside ramble with a hearty meal in a cosy inn.

Unfortunately, pubs “cosy” or otherwise are an endangered species. Since the year 2000 over a quarter of British pubs have shut their doors for the last time. In this year alone they are closing at the rate of one a day forced out of business by high rents and staff costs. In rural areas this trend is particularly acute and has been to the detriment of vibrant village life.

The Bay Horse at Roughlee, Pendle, almost suffered the fate of permanent closure and being demolished for housing development. In 2017 it suffered a devastating fire affecting its prospects. Yet thanks to a community fundraising effort which raised £500,000 it was saved and has reestablished itself as a much-loved amenity visited by customers far and wide.

The walk below starts at the Bay Horse and visits two other Pendle villages before returning for well-earned refreshment and a delicious meal. Now what is stopping you?

Start: The Bay Horse Inn Roughlee BB9 6NP

What3Words:///disposal.divider.limelight

Fact File: