This is Rivington Pike in South Lancashire, which sits atop a 1,191 feet (361 metres) summit, so I guess that makes it a mountain. It is the site of one of a chain of beacons which were put in place by the Earl of Chester Ranulph de Blundeville around 900 years ago in the year 1139.
Usually you can have the place to yourself and a mere handful of other walkers and dogs. Today will be a different story however, as it's a Good Friday tradition for people from the village of Rivington, and neighbouring towns of Horwich and Chorley below walk up to the top. It stems from a feeling of being nearer to God. At least it's a lot warmer and sunnier today than on the day I took this photo.
There will be stalls and music, food and drink awaiting those who make it. If it's a clear day then they will also be greeted by views of the Blackpool Tower, the Lake District mountains, the Welsh mountains and even as far as the Isle of Man (the latter is 93 miles or 150 km away).
The Rivington Pike Fell Race has been held on the Saturday before Easter Sunday since 1892. The fell race originally started from the Horwich railway works, but since 1930 from the park entrance at Lever Park Avenue. It attracts around 400 runners. The course is 3¼ miles and there is a 700 feet ascent.
Happy Easter!
Happy Easter to you as well. Hopefully it is nice day!
ReplyDeleteHAPPY EASTER.
ReplyDeleteLooks nice to attend a tradition like this, and to bring a dog on the walk is always nice:)
Magnificent, and a wonderful tradition. It looks appealing even in damp conditions.
ReplyDeleteTough race in tough conditions, according to the picture.
ReplyDelete