Life can stressful, noisy and frantic. It’s an increasing rarity that we put down our smart phones, turn off our TV’s and get away from the hussle and bussle of the modern world. That we swap car horns for bird songs, the internet for spider webs and computer screens for tranquil ponds (A metaphor to far maybe). The point is a nice walk can help keep can benefit not only our bodies but minds too. To give us a breather and allow us to explore the many wonderful sights right here on our doorstep.
A recent study, published online in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, showed that even low-level physical activities can help lower the risk of death from heart disease or cancer. There are also mental wellbeing benefits with walking like improving self-esteem, mood and sleep quality, plus the bonus that it reduces stress, anxiety and fatigue. Yes, walking really is special and a great activity for the whole family, often with little or no costs involved.
With that in mind Cudworth Businesses & Community Together (CBCT) a community association based in Cudworth (the clue’s in the title) have started working on a series of walking maps exploring Cudworth and the surrounding areas. Inspired by the village in which the group live or work they are putting together a series of walking maps that are suitable for all the family, taking in nearby attractions.
Cudworth Walking Map 1
Editors Note: Please note the Cudworth Walking Maps were produced in 2019 before the current Coronavirus pandemic . We are not encouraging people to go out and explore however guidelines do suggest exercising once a day. We encourage everyone to maintain social distancing, to stay home as much as possible and avoiding crowded, public places where close contact with others is likely. We’ve been message quite a lot to provide digital versions of the maps and please only use the maps once it is safe to do so.
Envisioned by CBCT Secretary and Cudworth resident Andrew Scattergood the two maps are now complete and were made available in early June 2019 as a free leaflet from Cudworth shops, Library and public spaces (Please note the printed maps are currently unavailable – A 2nd print run may be produced later in the year.
The first map starts from the wonderful Cudworth high street packed full of independent shops from where you can grab a bit to eat or shop for supplies. As you walk along the route you’ll be able to see historic landmarks like the Freestanding Chimney at Bleachcroft Farm which dates back to 1854 and was built by the Barnsley manufacturer Henry Jackson for use in the linen trade. Also look out for the 16th century milestone dating back to 1738 with the distance in “Yorkshire Miles” which differs from the miles we now use.
One of the highlights of the walk is the wonderful The Carlton Marsh Nature Reserve, a nature lover’s delight. There is a small picnic area and wildlife viewing ponds plus a glorious mix of reedbeds, meadows and wet-woodland which makes Carlton Marsh a great place to relax. The map includes a guide to local birds which you can tick off as you spot them.
The path ends towards the rear entrance to Cudworth park where you can enjoy the sights, sounds, swings and slides before returning back to the centre of Cudworth for some well earned refreshments in one of the many cafes, food outlets and public houses.
So, why not get on your walking boots and get out there to explore the many wonderful walks around Barnsley. We’re lucky to have so many beautiful villages, ponds, woods and meadows in this wonderful town of ours. You will be amazed by the hidden treasures you’ll around Barnsley.
Cudworth Walking Map 2
