Pendle hill

The iconic hill in Lancashire

 

I come from the borough of Pendle (named after the hill). Growing up we could see Pendle hill from the end of our street.

I’ve climbed it many times, and as a young teenager I’ve bivouacked on it.

It’s famous for the Lancashire witches.

At Halloween people come from all over, by the bus load, to climb it.

 

Because Quakerism (known then as friends) was started by George Fox as he had climbed Pendle hill the area is known as ‘1652 country’ in some Quaker circles.

The main Quaker college in Pennsylvania, USA, is called Pendle hill.

 

 

....OH PENDLE THOU STANDEST ALONE

 

Twixt Burnley and Clitheroe, Whalley and Colne,

Where Hodder and Ribble's fair waters do meet,

With Barley and Downham content at thy feet.

 

Oh Pendle, oh Pendle, majestic, sublime,

Thy praises will ring till the end of all time,

Thy beauty eternal, thy banner unfurled,

Thou dearest and grandest old hill in the world.

 

And when witches fly on a cold winter's night,

You must not tell a soul, and you'll bolt the door tight,

You'll sit by the fireside and keep yourself warm,

Until once again you can walk in her arms.

 

Oh Pendle, Oh Pendle, o'er moorland and fell,

In glorious loveliness ever to dwell,

Through life's fateful journey where e'er we may be,

We'll cease in our labours and oft think of thee.

 

(An old traditional song)

 

 

Pendle hill shot from the New Waggoners pub restaurant, Burnley.

Done