The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Burnley

Burnley offers a wide selection of family-friendly hiking trails. You'll find over 90 easy routes and many more moderate options, providing plenty of choices for families looking to explore the beautiful Lancashire landscape.

The trails around Burnley offer diverse terrain suitable for families. You can expect gentle riverside paths, flat canal towpaths, woodland trails in parks like Brun Valley Forest Park and Towneley Park, and circular routes around picturesque reservoirs such as Clowbridge and Hurstwood. Some routes may include gentle ascents onto moorland, offering panoramic views.

Yes, many family-friendly routes around Burnley are circular, making them convenient for day trips. For example, the Clowbridge Reservoir loop is a short, easy option. Another popular choice is the Hurstwood Reservoir loop, which offers a serene walk through woodlands.

Burnley's family hikes are rich with points of interest. You can visit the unique Singing Ringing Tree, a wind-powered sound sculpture with fantastic views. Many trails also pass by tranquil reservoirs like Clowbridge and Hurstwood, or through the extensive Towneley Park, home to historic Towneley Hall and art installations.

For families with prams or toddlers, the flat, accessible paths along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal are excellent. Many sections of Brun Valley Forest Park and the immediate loops around Clowbridge and Hurstwood Reservoirs also offer relatively flat and well-maintained surfaces, though it's always good to check specific route details for suitability.

The komoot community highly rates the trails around Burnley, with an average score of 4.46 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse scenery, from tranquil reservoirs and woodlands to unique landmarks like the Singing Ringing Tree, and appreciate the well-maintained paths suitable for various family abilities.

Spring and summer are ideal for family hikes in Burnley, with milder weather and lush greenery. Autumn offers beautiful fall colours, especially in wooded areas like Towneley Park. Even winter can be enjoyable for a crisp walk, but be prepared for potentially muddy conditions and shorter daylight hours, especially on moorland routes.

Many areas around Burnley are accessible by public transport. Local bus services connect the town centre to various parks and trail starting points, including Towneley Park. For routes further afield, checking local bus schedules in advance is recommended to plan your journey effectively.

Parking is generally available at popular trailheads and attractions. Towneley Park has dedicated car parks, and you'll often find parking facilities near reservoirs like Clowbridge and Hurstwood. For specific routes, it's advisable to check the route details on komoot for parking information at the starting point.

Most trails around Burnley are dog-friendly, making it easy to bring your furry family members along. However, always keep dogs under control, especially near livestock or in nature reserves, and be sure to clean up after them. Some areas, particularly around reservoirs, may require dogs to be on a lead.

Yes, for those seeking the beauty of waterfalls, the Cliviger Gorge and Thursden Valley area, located south of Burnley, offers a scenic circular walk that includes woodland paths and passes by waterfalls along the river. It's a lovely option for families looking for this natural feature.

For a family hike in Burnley, it's wise to pack layers of clothing suitable for changing weather, waterproofs, sturdy footwear, snacks, plenty of water, and a first-aid kit. Depending on the season, sun protection or hats and gloves might also be necessary. Don't forget a fully charged phone and a map or GPS device.