HEALTHY BRIGG WALK WELL WORTH TRYING - EVEN IN JANUARY

 

Brigg offers many interesting and enjoyable walking routes for townsfolk, including pet owners.
The powers that be encourage us to get out into the fresh air by undertaking healthy walks.
Now the days are getting longer and with spring not too far distant, Brigg Blog tried one of the best.
From the County Bridge it takes you along the new Ancholme Valley Way, following the river as far as Castlethorpe Bridge.
Having crossed the structure, walkers can return to town on the other bank, with some across-the-water views of Glanford Boat Club and craft moored there.
The final stretch is between the New River Ancholme and Waters Edge housing estate, which the approach road signs remind you is part of Broughton!
Next, cross Cake Mills Bridge to re-enter Brigg near Earnshaws Fencing Centre at the top of Island Carr industrial estate.
Even in January this route is not too muddy to be enjoyed on foot and affords some pleasing cross-field views of the countryside towards Castlethorpe.
There's even a helpful information board near Castlethorpe Bridge, explaining the history of the hamlet and pointing out some of the wildlife you might be lucky enough to spot. Castlethorpe used to have a tannery and a spring that supplied water for beer-making at a renowned Brigg brewery.
The first time we enjoyed this walk, some years ago, was during the height of summer and on the way back into Brigg we dropped in at the Yarborough Hunt pub, on Bridge Street, for welcome liquid refreshment, with a bowl of water available to our canine companions.
This part of the Castlethorpe Bridge Walk is optional, of course!
Cyclists can also try the route, although the final leg from Castlethorpe Bridge to Waters Edge might prove heavy going after periods of prolonged rain.
If so, sling the bike over your shoulder until the terrain improves. That will help to burn off some extra calories!

Homes on Waters Edge near the New River Ancholme footpath

Cake Mills Bridge viewed from the footpath adjoining Waters Edge housing estate

Looking down on the footpath near the New River Ancholme near the border between Broughton parish and Brigg

Waters Edge housing estate, Broughton, and the riverside footpath, with railings, on the left; Brigg is on the right-hand bank of the Ancholme