Attractions and Places To See around Altham - Top 20

Altham and its surroundings offer a diverse range of attractions, including historical sites like Stonyhurst College and St. James Church, natural landmarks such as Pendle Hill and the Confluence of the Rivers Calder and Ribble, and unique man-made monuments like The Singing Ringing Tree.

Yes, the area is rich in history. You can explore Stonyhurst College, a significant historical site with buildings dating back to the 16th century. St. James Church in Altham also boasts nearly 900 years of history, with its current structure built in 1512. Additionally, Compston's Cross is a historical monument offering excellent views.

You can visit Pendle Hill, a prominent natural feature known for its history and legends, offering superb views. Another must-see is the Confluence of the Rivers Calder and Ribble, where two major Lancashire rivers meet, and the Ribble estuary is important for overwintering birds. Compston's Cross also provides marvellous views towards Clowbridge Reservoir, Nutshaw Hill, and Pendle Hill.

For families, nearby attractions include Towneley Hall Museum and Samlesbury Hall, both offering stately homes and gardens suitable for all ages. Thompson Park in Burnley features a miniature railway, and Oswaldtwistle Mills provides an indoor and outdoor experience. The Whalley Spy Mission Treasure Trail is also a fun outdoor activity for all ages.

The Altham area offers various hiking opportunities. You can find easy hikes like the Coppice Trig Point – Peel Park Monument loop from Accrington, or the Hapton Castle – Huncoat Trail loop from Huncoat. For more options, explore the Easy hikes around Altham guide.

Yes, there are several cycling routes around Altham. Options range from moderate rides like the Whalley Village Centre – Clitheroe Castle loop from Read, to more challenging ones such as the Whalley Old Bridge – Freemasons at Wiswell loop. Discover more routes in the Cycling around Altham guide.

Runners can enjoy various trails around Altham, including moderate loops like the Accrington Stanley FC loop from Altham or the Millenium Baby Wood loop from Clayton-le-Moors. For a comprehensive list of routes, check out the Running Trails around Altham guide.

Pendle Hill is an iconic landmark steeped in myth and legend, notably the famous Witch Trials of the early 17th century. Rising to 1,827 feet (532 m), it offers extensive views across Lancashire and into the Forest of Bowland. You can climb it via steep stone stairs from Barley or opt for quieter routes from Downham.

The Confluence of the Rivers Calder and Ribble is located where these two major Lancashire rivers meet. From this point, the Ribble flows to the Irish Sea, and its estuary is internationally important for overwintering birds. The Ribble Way hiking path also passes by this spot.

The Singing Ringing Tree is a unique wind-powered sound sculpture located on the Pennine hill range overlooking Burnley. Completed in 2006, this 3-meter tall construction of galvanized steel pipes harnesses wind energy to produce a slightly discordant, penetrating choral sound across several octaves. It's part of the Panopticons arts project.

Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. Highlights like Pendle Hill are loved for their challenging climbs and rewarding views, while Stonyhurst College is admired for its impressive architecture and rich history. The natural meeting point of the Rivers Calder and Ribble is also a popular spot for its scenic beauty and wildlife.

Yes, The Singing Ringing Tree is a notable man-made monument near Burnley. This wind-powered sound sculpture is an artistic landmark that produces musical tones as the wind passes through its pipes. Additionally, Compston's Cross is a historical stone cross offering a unique viewpoint.