Walking with Witches

The project aims to develop a new sustainable long-distance walking route for Lancashire, from Pendle District through Ribble Valley to Lancaster City. Based on existing public rights of way/concessionary path networks, it will connect locations related to the history of the Lancashire Witches and commemorate the 400th anniversary of their trials in 1612. A survey of the proposed route demonstrates sections need to be upgraded (surfacing & drainage improvements & upgrading of stiles/gates where required) to support wider usage from the public and to secure the long-term sustainability of the route. Bespoke waymarkers will be created in stone, wood and plastic disc formats: Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy will create a poem to be incorporated into these, raising the tourism and marketing profile of the project. The work will strengthen economic linkages and enhance the sustainable tourism by linking into local rural businesses (i.e. accommodation providers, cafes, pubs, etc)