GREAT OUTDOORS

More and more people are discovering the wonders of being in the countryside, many exploring on foot or by bike. In Ribble Valley, you won’t be short of trails to explore.

Guiding you to rolling hills and shimmering rivers, abundant wildlife and picture-postcard villages, Ribble Valley's various trails showcase the very best of the North West. And they’re full of history to boot!

So whether you’re a rookie who likes exploring and taking photographs, or you’re a seasoned adventurer who loves a new challenge - check out this guide to walks in Ribble Valley, including Pendle Hill, a special trail for foodies, and more.

Start your exploration at visitribblevalley.co.uk

Gisburn Forest

Did you know that Gisburn Forest is the largest forest in Lancashire? Abundant with bike trails, pathways, and bridleways, Gisburn Forest is a great place for getting your heart pumping while breathing in fresh woodland air.

Nestled in the Forest is the Stocks Reservoir - which, aside from attracting keen fishermen, offers a circular trail letting walkers soak in its beauty.

The Forest may sound like an active place, but there’s plenty of space to relax as well. Picnic tables are aplenty and there’s wide open space - the perfect place to chill out while your little ones fly the kite and play catch!

Pendle Hill

Overlooking Sabden, Clitheroe, and surrounding villages, Pendle Hill makes for a majestic backdrop to the Ribble Valley. It’s just over 1,800 feet above sea level - and attracts rookies and seasoned hikers alike.

Historically, Pendle Hill was a rather magical place. It inspired George Fox to establish the Quaker movement in the early 1600s - in awe, he wrote, “As we travelled, we came near a very great hill, called Pendle Hill, and I was moved of the Lord to go up to the top of it… When I was come to the top, I saw the sea bordering upon Lancashire. From the top of this hill the Lord let me see in what places he had a great people to be gathered.” And so the Quakers movement was born. You may also have heard of Pendle Hill’s association with witchcraft. Back in the 17th century, 12 witches from the area surrounding the Hill were sentenced - and subsequently hanged - going down in history as the Pendle Witches. If you’re looking to enjoy nature with a backdrop of history and stunning views, Pendle Hill is the place to discover.

Access for All

Whilst breathtakingly beautiful, the Ribble Valley can sometimes be unforgiving for people challenged by mobilty. Gisburn Forest has an accessible solution: the Tramper.

The Tramper is a specially designed all-terrain electric buggy, which can be used off road and even on rough ground, mud and grass. You can hire the Tramper for a small donation at Gisburn Forest Hub - then set right off on your adventure into the awe-inspiring Ribble Valley!

It’s fantastic that the Ribble Valley’s vast and undulating landscapes can, thanks to the Tramper, be made more accessible to everyone.