Best attractions and places to see around Dunnockshaw include a blend of natural beauty and historical points of interest within this civil parish in Burnley, Lancashire. The area features significant natural landmarks such as Clowbridge Reservoir and the extensive Dunnockshaw Community Woodland. Historical sites like Oak Mill provide insight into the region's industrial past. Dunnockshaw offers opportunities for nature appreciation and exploration of local heritage.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
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The small sacred monument, listed here in the komoot system under the name "Stone Cross Monument," is called "Compston's Cross." It has a base of three tapered brick circles and has stood at this location for more than 120 years. It is likely of older origin, as the stone cross is said to have been relocated here – about halfway between Clough Bottom Reservoir and Clowbridge Reservoir – at the beginning of the 20th century.
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Many sacred and secular monuments that hikers pass on their journeys are of a venerable age. Often they were erected generations ago, some even centuries ago. Here, however, we encounter a very modern sound sculpture from this century. Although from a distance, one initially only gets a visual impression of the prominently located installation, the acoustic effect becomes apparent upon approach. The wind transforms the assembled steel pipes into a sound installation.
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They have been updating the jump section and modifying the red route, also putting a blue route
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“Each of these crosses can tell its own story and what motivated people to erect “their” cross at this spot. (...) These wayside crosses were erected as visible signs and attract the attention of many people. The cross is a symbol of life. It stands as a sign of our Christian hope and aims to direct our gaze to Jesus Christ, who has overcome death (...). The cross is part of our lives, just as it was part of the life of Jesus. So I hope that many people ... will visit the wayside crosses, whether as places of silence and breathing before God, whether as places of community gathering, prayer and praise of God.” (Text source: Dean Rainald M. Ollig in: “Wayside crosses... small sacred monuments as signs of popular piety”)
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A trig point with views which are well worth the climb up.
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Dunnockshaw offers several natural attractions. The prominent Clowbridge Reservoir, built in 1866, is popular for water sports and offers splendid views with Swinshaw Moor as a backdrop. Adjacent to it is the extensive Dunnockshaw Community Woodland, a tranquil environment for wildlife spotting. While not directly in Dunnockshaw, Hameldon Hill is a notable landmark in the wider area, offering fabulous scenery.
Yes, Dunnockshaw has historical points of interest. Oak Mill, erected in 1840, is a significant historical landmark reflecting the region's industrial past. You can also find Compston's Cross, a small sacred monument with historical significance, offering excellent views. The area is also part of the Pennine Bridleway, a historic national trail for walkers and horse riders.
The area around Dunnockshaw is excellent for outdoor activities. You can enjoy running, hiking, and cycling. For specific routes, check out the Running Trails around Dunnockshaw, Easy hikes around Dunnockshaw, and Cycling around Dunnockshaw guides. Clowbridge Reservoir is also a popular spot for water sports.
Absolutely. You must visit The Singing Ringing Tree, a wind-powered sound sculpture made of galvanised steel pipes. It produces a unique, slightly discordant choral sound and is part of the Panopticons arts project overlooking Burnley.
For excellent views, head to Compston's Cross, which offers panoramic vistas of Clowbridge Reservoir, Nutshaw Hill, and Pendle Hill. Cowpe Lowe Trig Point also provides rewarding views of the Rossendale Valley after a climb.
Mountain biking enthusiasts will enjoy Lee Quarry Trails. This MTB park, along with the adjacent Cragg Quarry, offers an entertaining selection of trails with varied terrain, including loose and rocky sections, as well as fast flowy sections. It also features two pump tracks for self-contained fun.
Yes, there are several easy walking routes. The Easy hikes around Dunnockshaw guide lists options such as the Clowbridge Reservoir loop from Dunnockshaw (approx. 3.4 km) and the Crown Point – Compston's Cross loop from Crown Point (approx. 5.2 km), which are generally suitable for families.
Visitors particularly enjoy the varied terrain and entertaining trails at Lee Quarry Trails, noting its fast single track and jumps. The unique melodic sounds of The Singing Ringing Tree are also a highlight, as are the marvellous walking opportunities and excellent views from Compston's Cross.
Yes, in addition to Compston's Cross, you can find Mount Cross (Idol Cross). This ancient cross, located near the southern edge of Stansfield Moor, is said to date from the 10th or 11th century and is a registered Ancient Monument with traces of intricate decoration.
The best time to visit Dunnockshaw for outdoor activities generally depends on your preference. Spring and summer offer milder weather, ideal for walking, cycling, and water sports at Clowbridge Reservoir. Autumn provides beautiful scenery with changing foliage. While some trails might be windswept, especially at higher elevations like Lee Quarry Trails, the area can be enjoyed year-round, with appropriate gear for cooler or wetter conditions.
Yes, Dunnockshaw is located on the Pennine Bridleway, a 205-mile national trail designed for horse riders and walkers that runs through the Pennine Hills. Additionally, the Rossendale Way, a 46-mile circular route around the Rossendale valley, passes by landmarks like Compston's Cross and Cowpe Lowe Trig Point.


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