About this Event
Join Team Hwæt! and folk singer Johnny Campbell on a tale-telling traversal up onto the moors overlooking the Calder Valley. On this guided walk we will be exploring the history and folklore of these beautiful lands, delving into tales of witchcraft and wizardry and telling the stories that have haunted these moorlands for centuries. The Bridestones upon the moor are among the many peculiar rock outcrops that lord over the small border town of Todmorden in West Yorkshire.
Why are they there and what stories do they tell? We will look into the ancient deities that are connected with the lands, which reach over to the other side of the valley. We'll be visiting the mysterious Wizard of Whirlaw whose origins are unknown, we'll traverse along the windy tops of Bridestones Moor, stopping at the elusive "rock house" along the way. We'll wander through the canopied and fungi populated Eleanor's Wood and back out onto the moors, where we will descend back into the valley, and visit the great Orchan Rocks. Here, we will regale you with more ancient tales whilst admiring the epic autumnal vista of the valley.
After a steep but beautiful walk back down into Todmorden, we will visit a few of the Calder Valley’s most wonderful ale houses to continue our discussions and relax our weary legs. As the dark skies sweep in, we will hop along to one of Todmorden's finest pubs, The Golden Lion where we will be treated to a live performance from folk singer Johnny Campbell and a guest slot from Angeline Morrison.
The team at Hwæt! will be providing an illustrated mini zine to all attendees, which will include a map of the walk, as well as information on all the areas we visit and the folklore and history behind them. Water and light snacks will also be provided.
Tickets for the event are £50 and include the guided walk, refreshments, Lore of the Land zine, entry to the evening show at The Golden Lion with Johnny Campbell and Angeline Morrison.
Tickets are extremely limited.
The Important Stuff:
Distance: 5.5 miles
Ascent: 1040ft - 320m
Walk time: 3 hours (approx.)
We will meet at Todmorden Station at 12pm. We aim to be back down in the valley by 4pm where we will relax at the pub and grab a bite to eat.
We will be providing bottles of water and light snacks (all dietary requirements will be looked after) but make sure to bring any extra nibbles if you wish.
Please note: This walk is not a light stroll. The ascents and descents are rather steep and proper footwear and outerwear is absolutely essential. We recommend sturdy waterproof walking boots and warm clothing. We cannot guarantee that the weather will be clear and bright, so please also pack a waterproof jacket. You will no doubt get a little muddy too!
Hwæt! & Johnny Campbell
Hwæt! Zine is a small press publication that is dedicated to uncovering the ancient wisdom, stories and customs that survive and thrive in the present day.
www.hwaetzine.co.uk
Johnny Campbell: Campbell's material focuses on the radical histories of Northern England, as well as the connection (and disconnection) to our land. His most recent work 'A Right to Roam' promotes the Right to Roam campaign and 'Winer Hill Trespass' celebrates the success of Britain's largest mass trespass of 10,000 people on Winter Hill, Lancashire in 1896 which received National Press and praise from the Guardian & Nick Hayes. He is also a freelance writer for Country Walking Magazine.
www.johnnycampbell.co.uk
''Like a Modern-Day Billy Bragg'' - Tradfolk
''Exactly Where My Heart is with English Folk Music'' Nick Hayes
''One of Folk's Brightest Rising Stars'' - Bright Young Folk
''Nobody else seems to be doing what Campbell is doing right now, and his passion and determination deserve recognition'' - Jon Wilks
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
The Golden Lion, Fielden Square, Todmorden, United Kingdom
GBP 54.88
