The best walks and hikes around Simonstone

Yes, there's a wide variety of options. You can explore over 600 routes in the region, ranging from gentle strolls through pastoral countryside to challenging ascents up prominent hills like Pendle Hill.

The area is highly regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the stunning panoramic views from the hilltops, the tranquility of the Forest of Bowland, and the mix of open moorland and sheltered woodland paths.

Definitely. For a gentle walk that's great for families, consider the White Hart, Sabden – Churn Clough Reservoir loop from Higham. It's a relatively short, easy trail. The nearby Pendle Sculpture Trail is also a popular choice, offering an engaging walk for all ages.

Many trails in the Simonstone area are suitable for dogs. The Tolkien Trail is known to be particularly dog-friendly. However, much of the region includes farmland with livestock and open moorland, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead where required.

The terrain is quite varied. Expect rolling hills, deep valleys, and expansive moorland, especially in the Forest of Bowland. Routes can include well-maintained footpaths, grassy tracks across open fields, and steeper, rockier sections on climbs like Pendle Hill.

Yes, if you're looking for a challenge, the Pendle Hill summit trig point – Downham Village loop from Sabden is a difficult, long-distance route with significant elevation gain that rewards you with expansive views.

Circular walks are very common in the area. A great moderate option is the Sabden Valley loop – Forest of Bowland, which takes you through a scenic part of this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Yes, you can combine hiking with history. The Gawthorpe Hall – Gawthorpe Hall loop from Simonstone is a moderate walk that takes you around the grounds of the impressive Elizabethan Gawthorpe Hall.

For some of the most dramatic panoramic views, routes that ascend Pendle Hill are your best bet. On a clear day, you can see as far as the Yorkshire Dales. The Forest of Bowland also offers spectacular vistas of rolling hills and valleys.

The trails are split quite evenly. About half of the routes are rated as easy, perfect for casual walkers. The other half are moderate, involving more elevation or longer distances. There are also a smaller number of difficult trails for those seeking a serious challenge.

Parking availability depends on your chosen trailhead. Villages like Sabden, Barley, and Higham have public parking areas that serve as popular starting points for many routes. For specific trails, check the route details on komoot for recommended parking spots.

While some larger villages in the Ribble Valley have bus services, many of the more remote trailheads can be difficult to reach without a car. It's best to plan your journey in advance and check local bus schedules, as services can be infrequent.