Lore Of The Land Anniversary Walk: Hwæt, Johnny Campbell, Katie Spencer

Join Team Hwæt! and folk singer Johnny Campbell on a tale-telling traversal up onto the moors overlooking the Calder Valley. On this guided walk we will be exploring the history and folklore of these beautiful landscapes, delving into tales of witchcraft and wizardry, and telling the stories that have haunted these moorlands for centuries. The Bridestones upon the moor are among the many peculiar rock outcrops that lord over the small border town of Todmorden in West Yorkshire.

Why are they there and what stories do they tell? We will look into the ancient deities that are connected with the lands, which reach over to the other side of the valley. We'll be visiting the mysterious Wizard of Whirlaw whose origins are unknown, we'll traverse along the windy tops of Bridestones Moor, stopping at the elusive "Rock House" along the way. We'll wander through the canopied and fungi-rich Eleanor's Wood and back out onto the moors, where we will descend down into the valley, and visit the imposing Orchan Rocks. Here, we will regale you with more ancient tales whilst admiring the epic autumnal vista of the valley.

After a steep but beautiful walk back down into Todmorden, we will visit a couple of the Calder Valley’s most wonderful ale houses to continue our discussions and relax our weary legs. As the dark skies sweep in, we will hop along to one of Todmorden's finest pubs, The Golden Lion, where we will be treated to a live performance from folk singer Johnny Campbell and a special headline set from Katie Spencer.

Spencer's shrewd blend of progressive and traditional folk has made her a favourite of ours. Her latest album ‘The Edge of the Land' is inspired by the open skies and widening rivers of the East Yorkshire flatlands, so we're looking forward to bringing Katie over to the more rugged and hilly side of Yorkshire!

The team at Hwæt! will be providing an illustrated mini zine to all attendees, which will include a map of the walk, as well as information on all the areas we visit and the folklore and history behind them. Walking snacks will also be provided.

Tickets for the event are £50 (+ Eventbrite fees) and include the guided walk, Lore of the Land zine, snacks, entry to the evening show at The Golden Lion with Johnny Campbell and Katie Spencer.

Tickets are extremely limited.

The Important Stuff:

Distance: 5.5 miles

Ascent: 1040ft - 320m

Walk time: 3 hours (approx.)

We will meet at Todmorden Station at 12pm. We aim to be back down in the valley by 4pm where we will relax at the pub and grab a bite to eat.

We will be providing light snacks but make sure to bring any extra nibbles if you wish.

Please note: This walk is not a light stroll and we recommend you have at least some hiking experience. The ascents and descents are rather steep and proper footwear and outerwear is absolutely essential. We recommend sturdy waterproof walking boots and weather-appropriate clothing. We cannot guarantee that the weather will be clear and bright, so please also pack a waterproof jacket. You will no doubt get a little muddy too!

Please also note that unfortunately we cannot allow dogs on the walk.

Katie Spencer is a folk musician from the East Riding of Yorkshire. The songwriting, and most notably her guitar playing stems from a time when the steel-stringed instrument was truly finding its voice. Artists like Joni Mitchell, James Taylor and perhaps most evidently Michael Chapman, flow into her sound, carrying with them the warmth and idealism of the early 70s folk and songwriter movements.

Hwæt! Zine is a small press publication that is dedicated to uncovering the ancient wisdom, stories, and customs that survive and thrive in the present day.

Johnny Campbell's material focuses on the radical histories of Northern England, as well as the connection (and disconnection) to our land. His most recent work 'A Right to Roam' promotes the Right to Roam campaign and 'Winer Hill Trespass' celebrates the success of Britain's largest mass trespass of 10,000 people on Winter Hill, Lancashire in 1896 which received National Press and praise from the Guardian & Nick Hayes. He is also a freelance writer for Country Walking Magazine.

''Like a Modern-Day Billy Bragg'' - Tradfolk

''Exactly Where My Heart is with English Folk Music'' - Nick Hayes

''One of Folk's Brightest Rising Stars'' - Bright Young Folk

''Nobody else seems to be doing what Campbell is doing right now, and his passion and determination deserve recognition'' - Jon Wilks

Host or Publisher Johnny Campbell