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Crank by Chris Pearce
Distance: 7.5 miles Difficulty: Medium The landscapes of most walks have an element of ‘old’ and ‘new’ about them, and this latest Jack’s Tracks has more than most. Ancient country estates, old railway lines, attractive churches and beautiful countryside make this 7.5 mile walk around the northern villages of St Helens a real treat for walkers. Park up on Crank Hill (WA11 7SD) near the bend at the higher end of Alder Lane. Follow the footpath away from the village and up an incline. You’ll pass the reservoir on the right as you arrive at the top of the hill; carry on in the same direction downhill. The path bends as you enter the
wooded area and you’ll go slowly uphill again, rewarded with great views of Billinge as you exit the trees. Go through two stiles, pass Forsters Farm Shop and turn right when you arrive at Moss Bank Road. The handsome alms-houses appear soon after on the right, which date back to 1725 and give you an idea of the rich history of the hilltop village, followed shortly after by Moss Bank Mission, which was built in 1855 and donated to the village by Lord Daresbury for the education of local children. Take the footpath that runs between the boundaries of 59 and 61 Moss Bank Road, and as you exit through a metal turnstile you can expect to see great views from your lofty position. You’re now on the Rainford Hall estate, which is far off to your right and straight ahead on the top of that hillock, you can see the rooftops of Windle Hall. Both homes were once owned by members of the Pilkington family. Follow the path downhill and then turn right down the wide bridleway, which in years past was the track bed for the St Helens to Rainford Junction railway, opened in 1858 and closed to passengers 93 years later. Other stations on the line included Crank Halt, Old Mill Lane, Rookery 1 & 2 and Rainford Village.
