The best walks and hikes around Ightenhill
4.5
(1258)
11,521
hikers
612
hikes
Hiking around Ightenhill provides access to varied landscapes, including riverside paths, historic parkland, and rolling hills that extend into the South Pennines moorlands. The area is characterized by the River Calder to the north and east, and features like Gawthorpe Hall's historic estate. Ighten Hill itself reaches approximately 146 meters above sea level, offering viewpoints across the region. This network of trails offers a mix of gentle strolls and more demanding routes.
Best hiking trails around Ightenhill
- The most popular…
Last updated: May 24, 2026
5.0
(1)
19
hikers
19.9km
05:31
350m
350m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
18
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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14
hikers
5.52km
01:25
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
19
hikers
4.46km
01:14
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
9
hikers
13.0km
03:26
110m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
On the narrow grass verge between the road and the footpath in the village of Roughlee stands a memorial to Alice Nutter. Approaching cyclists from a distance might immediately think, "What a lovely statue." But anyone who stops to take a closer look will surely notice the woman's hands bound with a heavy iron chain, as well as the sad expression on her face. Alice Nutter was born around 1560 and, along with several other women, was convicted of witchcraft and executed in 1612.
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She patiently waits here, on the narrow grassy strip between the road and the footpath in the village of Roughlee. From a distance, the slowly approaching hiker might spontaneously think, "What a lovely monument." But up close, the attentive observer will not fail to notice the hands bound with a heavy iron chain, nor the sad expression on this woman's face. Her name is Alice Nutter. She was born around 1560 and in 1612—along with several other women—was convicted of witchcraft and executed.
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Built in the 1930's as a water treatment works. The attractive building as now been converted into residential properties.
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Excellent food. Not open too late though so get there early to avoid disappointment
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The Memorial Park is the main public park in Padiham and comprises of two sites linked by a riverside walk along the River Calder, one at the top of town, off Blackburn Road, and the other at the bottom of the hill adjacent to Park Road. Funds for construction were mainly provided by the will of Mr.Thomas Clayton who died in 1915, although public subscription provided much of the money for many of the Park’s features. This public generosity continues to this day and features such as the Rose Garden have been replanted with money raised by local residents.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many walking routes to choose from around Ightenhill?
Yes, there is a wide variety of trails. You can explore over 600 hiking routes around Ightenhill, ranging from easy strolls in local parks to challenging treks across the Pennine moorlands.
What do other hikers enjoy about the trails in Ightenhill?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1,100 reviews. Hikers often praise the mix of scenery, from the historic parkland around Gawthorpe Hall to the scenic riverside paths along the River Calder.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks in the area?
Definitely. Ightenhill Park is a popular, award-winning park with well-maintained paths perfect for a family outing. For a slightly longer but still easy walk, the Gawthorpe Hall – Gawthorpe Hall loop from Habergham is a great option that explores the grounds of the historic estate.
Can I take my dog on the trails around Ightenhill?
Most trails in the area are suitable for dogs, but it's always best to keep them on a lead, especially near livestock on the moorlands or in park areas like Ightenhill Park. The paths around Gawthorpe Hall and along the River Calder are popular choices for dog walkers.
Are there any good circular walks starting from Ightenhill?
Yes, circular walks are very common. A great example is the Thompson Park Boating Lake – Burnley Mill Chimney loop from Burnley. This moderate route takes you through one of the town's finest parks and offers a glimpse into the area's industrial heritage.
Where can I find a challenging, long-distance hike?
For a serious challenge, you can tackle the The Pendle Inn, Barley – The Cabin Café loop from Higham. This difficult 12.3-mile (19.9 km) route involves significant climbing as it heads towards the iconic Pendle Hill, rewarding you with expansive views across the moorland.
Are there any walks that feature local history or art?
Yes, you can combine hiking with local culture on the Padiham Mural by Gavin Renshaw – Steel Sculptures loop from Simonstone. This walk takes you past modern artworks that celebrate the region's heritage, alongside paths by the River Calder.
What are the parking options for hikes near Ightenhill?
For walks starting in town, Ightenhill Park has its own car park. For routes exploring the wider area, such as those around Gawthorpe Hall or Pendle Hill, there are usually designated car parks or on-street parking available near the trailheads in villages like Padiham or Barley. Always check local signage for any restrictions.
Can I reach the hiking trails using public transport?
Yes, Ightenhill and the surrounding towns like Burnley and Padiham are well-serviced by local buses. This allows for easy access to many trailheads, including those for Gawthorpe Hall and local parks, without needing a car.
Are there any woodland walks available?
The area offers several woodland walks. The grounds of Gawthorpe Hall include Hagg Wood, an ancient woodland that you can explore on the Gawthorpe Hall – Gawthorpe Hall loop from Simonstone. You can also find smaller local woods like Tipping Hill Wood for shorter, quieter strolls.
Are any of the paths suitable for prams or wheelchairs?
The paths within Ightenhill Park are generally well-surfaced and flat, making them a good option for prams. For more adventurous routes, the terrain quickly becomes uneven with stiles and muddy sections, which would be unsuitable for most prams and wheelchairs.
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