The best walks and hikes around Altham

Yes, there's a wide variety of options. You can explore over 450 hiking routes in the Altham area, ranging from gentle canalside paths to more challenging ascents into the Pennine foothills.

The trails in this region are highly regarded by the komoot community. With over 1,500 ratings, the routes have an average score of 4.5 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the mix of industrial heritage, quiet countryside, and scenic hilltop views.

Definitely. For a straightforward circular route, consider the Hapton Castle – Huncoat Trail loop from Huncoat. It's a pleasant walk of about 7.4 km that takes you through local countryside without too much climbing.

Many trails in the area are suitable for dogs, but it's always best to check for local signage, especially regarding livestock. The Tolkien Trail at Hurst Green is a particularly popular choice for dog walkers as it's known to be very dog-friendly.

Yes, the Pendle Sculpture Trail in Barley is an excellent option for a family outing. It's an easy-to-follow path where children can enjoy discovering the various sculptures related to the area's history, making the walk engaging and fun.

The canal towpath offers fantastic opportunities for level walking. A great option is the Hiking loop from Dill Hall, which incorporates sections of the canal path for a peaceful waterside experience.

For expansive views, Hameldon Hill is a great objective. It's a well-known local peak, and reaching the summit rewards you with stunning panoramic vistas across the surrounding landscape. On a clear day, the views are truly impressive.

Besides the individual trails, hikers are drawn to several key areas. Pendle Hill is a major landmark offering challenging climbs and historic intrigue. For vast, remote moorland, the Forest of Bowland National Landscape is a top choice. For gentler walks, the Jackhouse Nature Reserve provides well-maintained paths around a reservoir.

Yes, the area is rich in history. Many walkers are drawn to the trails around Pendle Hill, which is famously associated with the 17th-century Lancashire witch trials. The routes here combine a good hike with a deep sense of local history and folklore.

Several walks are conveniently located near local pubs. After a hike up Hameldon Hill, The Hapton Inn is a popular spot for a meal. Similarly, the area around the Tolkien Trail in Hurst Green is known for having a great pub and cafe at the start/end of the walk.

The terrain is quite varied. You'll find flat, easy-going towpaths along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, gentle rolling hills through farmland, and more strenuous, steep ascents onto the open moorland of nearby fells like Pendle Hill.

Yes, for those seeking a longer day out, the Hiking loop from Hyndburn is a great moderate option. At around 10 km, it provides a more substantial challenge while exploring the local landscape.