Winter stroll in Sunnyhurst Woods

We've both been under the weather lately and this has kept us in the house for almost the whole of the Christmas and New Year holidays, which has been especially frustrating given the cold crisp days we've been having of late.

With us both on the mend, we ventured out for a gentle walk into Sunnyhurst Woods in Darwen, a favourite spot for a leisurely stroll as it's only a mile or two from where we live.

The visitor centre in Sunnyhurst Woods

The woods form a fairly steep-sided valley, but the main paths stick to the valley floor and only climb gradually, all the time staying close to Sunnyhurst Brook as it bubbles through the woods. The main path meanders past the Visitor Centre, where local artists and photographers often exhibit, and is worth a look. Just a few yards further on is a cafe serving refreshments.

The path continues past a long ornamental stretch of water and leads on to the bandstand, which is still used occasionally, the most recent being for carol singing just before Christmas. This is a good place to stop and take some photos.

There were plenty of people out enjoying the fresh air and tranquility of this lovely green space in the heart of the town.