With lockdown and restrictions still looming large, looks like it’s still going to be a while before any of us get to do some proper travelling again.
Nonetheless, you’d often be surprised at what’s already on your doorstep…
Burnley isn’t exactly celebrated for its beauty, and it’s often easy to overlook when you’re a local, but the town actually has some cracking countryside & a large selection of walking trails suitable for all abilities.
From heritage sights, scenic hilltop views and picturesque nature trails, I’m certain at least something on this list will take your fancy.
Best Walks In Burnley
The Wayside Arts Trail – Burnley
Stretching from Towneley Hall all the way up to Crown Point and back, this artsy and heritage themed walk is perfect for a family day out.
Developed between the Land and the Forest of Burnley in 2004 & 2005, the 9.5 kilometres trail features a variety of imaginative way-markers inspired by the local wildlife.
Created by Lancashire artists Martin Bednarczuk and Julie Miles, with the help of students from Myerscough College and St John’s Junior School, the carvings are dotted throughout the trail and spotting them is always a favourite with the kids.
Follow the way-markers to work your way up to Crown Point. From there, take in the magnificent views while listening to one of the strangest musical sculptures around; The Singing Ringing TreeThe Singing Ringing Tree.
Full route info here.
Pendle Hill Walk – Barley
Notorious for the Pendle Witch trials of 1612, this historic hill climb offers some of the most spectacular views in the whole county.
With several routes to choose from, the ramble can be tailored to be as short or long as you want. We usually go with the classic circular route that starts and finishes in Barley, which should have you up and down in around 2 hours 30 minutes.
Overlooking Lancashire and into the Yorkshire Dales, the steep ascent is worth the rewarding views; and there’s always the Pendle Inn pub at the end of walk for those who fancy some grub and a pint (or two) to recoup.
Full route info here.
Clowbridge Reservoir Walk – Dunnockshaw
Located in Dunnockshaw – just adjacent to the Burnley Millennium Forest – lies the picturesque Clowbridge Reservoir.
The 3 kilometre footpath loops you all around the reservoir, where along the way you can spot sailors, windsurfers and fishermen all dotted around the waters.
For those who fancy a longer route, there are a number of further trails which take you off the standard path and through the nearby woodland and over the picturesque moors.
Full route info here.
Burnley to Hebden Bridge Trail – Burnley
This adventurous ramble takes you around a total of three reservoirs, over exposed moorlands and through the forested valley of Hardcastle Craggs, before finally dropping into Hebden Bridge for a well-deserved pint at the end of the 13-mile excursion.
Despite starting in the heart of the town centre, the majority of this walk will have you in quiet countryside, taking footpaths that are deserted except for the odd walker.
Conveniently situated around half-way through the trek, you’ll also pass the Pack Horse Inn, a charming little pub that’s perfect for a short break to re-energise before starting the second leg of the trail.
Full route info here.
Gawthorpe Hall Circular Walk – Padiham
This 8-kilometre circular route takes you along the river Calder, into the surrounding woodlands and through the historic grounds of Gawthorpe Hall.
Built at the start of the 17th Century and redesigned in the 1850s by Sir Charles Berry – architect of the Houses of Parliament – this Elizabethan country house is nowadays run by the National Trust and Lancashire County Council.
Originally home to the Kay-Shuttleworth family who lived in the hall for over 400 years, the grounds today are open to the public with visits inside the building available via appointment.
This trail will also have you venture through Hagg Wood (locally known as Blue Bell Wood), an ancient woodland site that’s well-known for its vast growth of bluebells in Spring.
Full route info here.
Hurstwood Reservoir Walk – Worsthorne
Situated on the outskirts of Burnley, Hurstwood is a quaint rural village steeped in local history.
The Towneleys, Spensers and Tattersalls were some of the most prominent historical families of the area, perhaps the most famous resident being Edmund Spenser – widely regarded as one of the best poets of the English language – who lived here between 1576-1578.
To the east of the village lies the gorgeous Hurstwood reservoir, a popular walking spot for locals and visitors alike.
With numerous trails to explore, you can simply take the standard loop around Hurstwood reservoir or even explore further afield.
Why not ramble round the surrounding area and check out the Gorple Stones or Cant Clough Reservoir? You won’t regret it.
More Resources
For more walking inspiration in the local area, why not head on over to the Lancashire section of our blog? I’m sure there’s something that’ll tickle your fancy!
Happy walking 🚶🚶