When you think of walking spots in the North West, the Lake District usually pops into your mind first. 🌄
But don’t overlook Lancashire—its countryside is packed with history and some of the most breathtaking trails around.
Since it’s less famous, you won’t find the crowds you see at bigger walking destinations. On a good day, you might even have the paths almost entirely to yourself!
With that in mind, here’s our pick of the top 5 walks in Lancashire for 2021. Perfect for a fun day out, these trails suit almost every walking level and promise a great adventure.
Best Walks In Lancashire
Famous for the Pendle Witch Trials of 1612, the Pendle Hill walk is packed with history and serves up some of the most stunning views in Lancashire. 🌿
There are a few routes to choose from, but we usually go for the classic circular path starting and ending in Barley. Perfect for a shorter trip, this walk takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes.
The steep climb rewards you with breathtaking vistas across Lancashire and into the Yorkshire Dales. And when you’re done, the Pendle Inn pub is the perfect spot to grab some food and a refreshing pint to celebrate the adventure!
Strolling through the same rolling pastures that inspired J.R.R. Tolkien, this trail is a must for every Lord of the Rings and Hobbit fan. 🌳
The journey begins at the Shireburn Arms Hotel (yes, The Shire vibes!) in the quaint village of Hurst Green. This circular route winds through lush greenery, scattered woodlands, and charming riverside spots.
Along the way, you’ll pass Stonyhurst College, the historic boarding school where Tolkien often stayed. Legend has it, he wrote some of the darkest and most dramatic chapters of Lord of the Rings here during World War II.
The 10-kilometre Tolkien Trail is mostly flat with easy-to-follow paths, making it perfect for most walkers. You can complete it in just over three hours at a steady pace.
Peel Tower & Holcombe Moor Walk – Ramsbottom
Although now technically part of Greater Manchester, this historic Lancashire gem had to make the list. 🏰
Set in the charming town of Ramsbottom, this 9-kilometre circular route leads you up to Peel Tower and across Holcombe Moor, offering amazing views of both Lancashire and Manchester.
Built in 1852, Peel Tower honors Bury-born Prime Minister Sir Robert Peel, who founded the London Police Force in 1829. Keep an eye out for the flying flag atop the tower—it signals when the tower is open for visitors.
Stretching from Towneley Hall up to Crown Point and back, this arts and heritage-themed walk is perfect for a fun family day out. 🎨
Created between the Land and Forest of Burnley in 2004–2005, the 9.5-kilometre trail is filled with imaginative way-markers inspired by local wildlife.
Lancashire artists Martin Bednarczuk and Julie Miles, along with students from Myerscough College and St John’s Junior School, designed the carvings scattered along the path. Kids especially love spotting them!
Follow the markers up to Crown Point, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and experience one of the quirkiest musical sculptures around—the Singing Ringing Tree.
One of Lancashire’s hidden treasures, the Haslingden Grane walk takes you through quarries, woods, farmland, and three reservoirs—all within just 9 kilometres. 🌲
Though little of the village remains today, the trail features several info points that share its fascinating history.
The walk starts and ends at Clough Head Visitor’s Centre Café. Arrive early, as the car park is small and fills up fast!
Built in 1866, Clowbridge Reservoir led to the depopulation of historic Gambleside village, but today it’s a favorite spot for walkers and water sport lovers alike. 💧
This peaceful 3-kilometre loop in Dunnockshaw, Burnley, circles the shimmering reservoir, where you might spot sailors, windsurfers, and even fishermen along the way.
For those craving a longer adventure, several offshoot trails wind through nearby woodlands and over stunning hilly moors.
One of my top picks is the route to the iconic Singing Ringing Tree, guiding you through Memorial Forest and Dunnockshaw Community Woodland up to the sculpture.
For more details, check out our full ‘Singing Ringing Tree Walk’ post!
Tucked on the edge of Lancashire in the charming town of Edgeworth, Turton and Entwistle Reservoir is a top walking destination. 🌊
The main route is a relaxing 4-kilometre loop around the sparkling lake, but there are extra trails for those wanting to explore the surrounding woodlands.
You can even extend your walk to include the nearby Wayoh Reservoir, just as scenic and peaceful.
With plenty of spots to take in the waterside views—or enjoy a picnic—this walk is perfect for the whole family and keeps visitors coming back again and again.
Full route details can be found here.
What’s not to love about the Forest of Bowland? 🌲
With countless stunning nature trails, many don’t realise it’s also home to a hidden waterfall gem.
Starting at Stocks Reservoir Car Park, this under-4-mile Forest of Bowland Waterfall Walk suits ramblers of all levels.
While the main trail is easy, the scramble down to the waterfall can be tricky and should only be attempted by confident climbers.
For those sticking to the regular path, it’s still a fantastic walk with incredible views of the ancient woodlands.
Full route details can be found here.
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