The Crompton Trail - Bolton

This week's walk was a repeat of a walk we did about two years ago. It connects up some sites in and around Bolton, which are significant in the story of Samuel Crompton, the inventor of the 'spinning mule', which revolutionised the cotton industry in Britain.

Distance: 6.5 miles. Photos by Danny. Comments by Anthony.

Walker: Danny, Martin, Vic Paddy & Anthony. ( It seems the demands of Christmas shopping etc. had depleted our numbers this week.)

Setting off from the parked cars on the outskirts of  Bolton.
(Just checking with a 'local' that we are heading in the right direction.)

Our first point of interest was the 'Hall i' th' Wood' where Crompton was living with his parents at the time he developed the spinning mule.

Bradshaw Brook was in flood due to heavy over-night rain.

"We can't go that way.....

..................

...so we'd better go this way."

There has to be the obligatory 'bridge photograph'!

The Hall i' th' Wood was built in the 15th century.
The family lived here as tenant farmers and cotton weavers.
The hall is now a museum, open to the public twice a week....but not on Thursdays.

Heading towards the next venue.... Firswood Fold.

Crompton was born here at No.10 Firswood Fold
 in December 1753.
The cottages still retain many of the original features from Crompton's days.

(Shame about the cars)

No.10 where he was born

A good example of an 'A-frame' construction, typical of the time.

Time for coffee.

Back on the trail following Bradshaw Brook

'King Paddy' - immortalised in the graffiti! 

Back on the trail...

Crompton was honoured for his contribution to the cotton industry of Bolton with this statue of him in Nelson Square.
Inspite of his invention, Crompton died a pauper, as he failed to patent his invention.

Butty time..... for some. (Guess who left his butties at home.)

Anthony had to make do with a 'chip barm' from a nearby refreshment trailer.
(He did receive many generous offers of 'food aid'!)

This giant Snow Slide in Victoria Square was part of the
'Bolton Winter Festival'

This huge Ice Rink had also been constructed...

....and was being enjoyed(?) by some very young, local school children.