With lockdowns still hanging over us, it might be a while before we get back to proper traveling ✈️
But you’d be amazed at the hidden gems right on your doorstep…
Burnley might not scream beauty at first glance, and locals often overlook it, yet the town hides stunning countryside and walking trails for every skill level.
From historic landmarks to breathtaking hilltop views and peaceful nature paths, there’s something here that’s bound to catch your eye 🌄
Best Walks In Burnley
The Wayside Arts Trail – Burnley
Stretching from Towneley Hall up to Crown Point and back, this artsy heritage walk is perfect for a fun family day out 👨👩👧👦
Built between the Land and Forest of Burnley in 2004–2005, the 9.5 km trail features imaginative way-markers inspired by local wildlife.
Created by Lancashire artists Martin Bednarczuk and Julie Miles, with help from students at Myerscough College and St John’s Junior School, the carvings are sprinkled along the route, and spotting them is always a hit with the kids 🎨
Follow the markers up to Crown Point, where you can soak in the stunning views and enjoy one of the quirkiest musical sculptures around – The Singing Ringing Tree 🎶
Pendle Hill Walk – Barley
Famous for the Pendle Witch Trials back in 1612, this historic hill climb treats walkers to some of the most jaw-dropping views in the county 🌄
With a variety of routes available, you can make the walk as short or as long as you like. We usually stick to the classic circular path starting and ending in Barley, which takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes.
The climb offers incredible panoramas over Lancashire and stretches into the Yorkshire Dales. And at the end, the Pendle Inn is perfect for grabbing a bite or a refreshing pint to celebrate the hike 🍺
Clowbridge Reservoir Walk – Dunnockshaw
Nestled in Dunnockshaw, right next to Burnley Millennium Forest, sits the charming Clowbridge Reservoir 🌊
A 3 km trail loops around the water, where you’ll often spot sailors, windsurfers, and anglers enjoying the day.
If you’re up for a longer adventure, several side trails branch off through the surrounding woods and over the scenic moorlands, adding a bit more excitement to your walk 🌿
Burnley to Hebden Bridge Trail – Burnley
This thrilling trek takes you past three reservoirs, across open moorlands, and through the wooded valley of Hardcastle Craggs, finishing in Hebden Bridge for a well-earned pint after the 13-mile adventure 🍺
Even though it starts in the town centre, most of the route winds through peaceful countryside, where footpaths are usually empty except for the occasional walker.
Halfway through, you’ll come across the Pack Horse Inn, a cozy little pub perfect for a quick break to recharge before tackling the second half of the trail 🌿
Gawthorpe Hall Circular Walk – Padiham
This 8 km circular trail follows the River Calder, winds through surrounding woodlands, and explores the historic grounds of Gawthorpe Hall 🌳
Built in the early 17th century and redesigned in the 1850s by Sir Charles Barry – the same architect behind the Houses of Parliament – this Elizabethan estate is now managed by the National Trust and Lancashire County Council.
Once home to the Kay-Shuttleworth family for over 400 years, the hall’s grounds are open to the public, with inside visits available by appointment.
The route also takes you through Hagg Wood, locally known as Bluebell Wood, an ancient forest famous for its stunning springtime bluebell displays 🌸
Hurstwood Reservoir Walk – Worsthorne
On the outskirts of Burnley lies Hurstwood, a charming village full of local history 🌿
The area was home to notable families like the Towneleys, Spensers, and Tattersalls, with its most famous resident being poet Edmund Spenser, who lived here from 1576–1578.
Just east of the village sits the beautiful Hurstwood Reservoir, a favourite spot for both locals and visitors to enjoy a walk.
There are plenty of trails to choose from, whether you stick to the standard loop around the reservoir or venture further to explore gems like the Gorple Stones or Cant Clough Reservoir – an adventure you won’t forget!
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