BENTHAM FOOTPATH GROUP

Why do we walk the footpaths? Probably everyone would give a different answer. Some might emphasize the physical - for fresh air and healthy exercise; some the aesthetic - to appreciate the beauty of our own AONB; some the social - to "meet old friends and to make new ones.."; some the historical - to observe how the countryside is changing with the passage of time; some the civic - to publicise and preserve ancient rights; and some perhaps the ecological - to watch over the delicate balance between the works of nature and the works of man. Some would regard a country walk as a "getting away from" less pleasant things; some will see it as a "drawing nearer to" things which are important to human beings in an age of high technology and conspicuous consumption, striving to preserve an essential humanity

Interest in these matters led to the Group's formation early in 1986, and the following aims were adopted:

1. To encourage appreciation and use of footpaths in the Bentham area
2. To provide information and guidance
3. To offer practical help on appropriate occasions
4. To promote good relations between those who work on the land and those who use it for recreation.

It soon became evident that in order to use the footpaths and rights of way without undue inconvenience or annoyance it is necessary to work for their preservation and in some cases refurbishment, and this has led to the beginnings of fruitful collaboration between walkers, land owners and occupiers, and statutory authorities.

GUIDED WALKS

Bentham Footpath Group offers a programme of guided walks throughout the year, each under the guidance of an experienced member. Advance information is posted on local notice boards and in the Bentham News, and individuals or families who join the Group for a modest subscription receive detailed programmes showing routes, dates, times, leaders, starting points and duration. Some of our walks are undertaken in partnership with other organisations, from near and far, and we also at times, join the walks of other groups.

Guided walks are sociable occasions, as we welcome all comers, provided they are adequately equipped. There is usually a mixture of born-and-bred Benthamers with "new-comers" whether recent arrivals or visitors, and one can sometimes be reminded of Chaucer's Canterbury Pilgrims by the varied company which assembles at the start of a walk.

USEFUL CONTACTS

MAPS

Pathfinder Series :

No 650 (SD 66/76) Bentham and Clapham
No 628 (SD 67/68) Kirkby Lonsdale and Barbon
No 637 (SD 56/57) Burton-in-Kendal and Caton
No 660 (SD 65/75) Slaidburn and Forest of Bowland

Books and Maps are available from Bentham Tourist Information Office.