4.6
(1591)
12,894
hikers
6
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Preston Richard are predominantly characterized by gentle, accessible paths, often following the historic Lancaster and Kendal Canal. The terrain typically features low elevation changes, making it suitable for all ages and abilities. Hikers can expect a mix of rural landscapes, including canal towpaths, open fields, and areas near local landmarks. The region offers a tranquil setting for outdoor exploration.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
5.0
(1)
22
hikers
8.05km
02:04
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
34
hikers
4.66km
01:11
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
19
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(10)
12
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
13.6km
03:42
200m
190m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The Holme Mills were originally a corn mills but change to flax in the 19th century and later to a coconut matting mill. The mill carried on being used for matting up until the 1970's. Apparently in its heyday as a matting mill it had up to 300 workers. The surrounding houses were built by the Quakers owners in the early/mid 19th century in order to house the workers at the mill.
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The path along the canal has perfectly been done by the canal trust. Nice and wide so your able to walk side by side
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A little further up the towpath ends, so look for the pathway running parallel on your right and head up there!
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Endmoor marked the millennium with this two faced solar powered clock.
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A very picturesque segment following the Lancaster and Kendal Canal tow path.
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Nice old bridleway. A bit horsed up but all rideable on a gravel bike. Could be a bit muddy if it's wet. Ignore the no vehicles sign on the road to the farm, it's a public bridleway
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Levens Deer Park is a glorious place for an afternoon stroll, full of vibrant wildlife and colour. Home to both a herd of black fallow deer and a herd of rare-breed Bagot goats, it's a treat for nature lovers. To protect the wildlife and preserve the park's tranquility, visitors are asked to keep to the footpaths and make sure that dogs are kept on a lead.
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Fascinating point where the Peasey Beck feeds into the Lancaster canal, and the aqueduct where the canal goes over the same Beck. Historical industrial features still standing and still working today. To get the view of the aqueduct, you must step down from the towpath and find the stream running through the aqueduct.
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There are 6 family-friendly hiking trails around Preston Richard featured in this guide. These include 2 easy routes and 4 moderate routes, offering options for various family abilities.
The family-friendly hikes around Preston Richard generally feature gentle paths and relatively flat terrain, often following canal towpaths or quiet country lanes. Routes like the Lancaster and Kendal Canal loop from Preston Richard are particularly known for their easy-going surfaces, making them suitable for families with younger children.
Yes, for families with toddlers or pushchairs, the Lancaster and Kendal Canal loop from Preston Richard is an excellent choice. It's an easy 4.6 km route with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Another good option is the Peasey Beck Aqueduct loop from Preston Richard, which is just under 5 km and also rated easy.
While exploring the family-friendly trails, you might encounter various points of interest. For natural beauty, consider visiting Fairy Steps or the impressive views from Arnside Knott. Historical sites like Devil's Bridge, Kirkby Lonsdale are also within reach, offering a glimpse into the region's heritage.
Many of the family-friendly routes in this guide are indeed circular, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same point. Examples include the Lancaster and Kendal Canal loop from Preston Richard and the Peasey Beck Aqueduct β View of Holme Mills loop from Preston Richard.
Generally, dogs are welcome on most public footpaths and trails around Preston Richard, especially on routes that follow canal towpaths or quiet country lanes. However, it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, particularly near livestock or in nature reserve areas, and to clean up after them. Specific rules may apply to certain private lands or nature reserves.
While specific parking details for each trailhead are best checked on the individual route pages, many rural starting points for hikes around Preston Richard offer roadside parking or small car parks. For routes like the Endmoor Millennium Clock β Lancaster and Kendal Canal loop from Preston Richard, you'll typically find convenient parking options in or near the villages.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1400 ratings. Reviewers often praise the peaceful canal-side walks, the gentle nature of the paths, and the opportunity to enjoy the countryside with family. The manageable distances and scenic views are frequently highlighted as key attractions.
Yes, several routes pass near villages or offer opportunities to find refreshments. For example, the Levens Deer Park β Eden Kitchen loop from Preston Richard suggests a stop at Eden Kitchen. Additionally, many local pubs in the surrounding villages are family-friendly and offer a welcoming stop for food and drinks after a walk.
Spring and summer are ideal for family walks in Preston Richard, with warmer weather and longer daylight hours making for pleasant outings. Autumn also offers beautiful scenery with changing foliage. While winter walks can be charming, be prepared for potentially muddy paths and shorter daylight, especially on routes away from paved surfaces.
Yes, the Peasey Beck Aqueduct β View of Holme Mills loop from Preston Richard and the shorter Peasey Beck Aqueduct loop from Preston Richard both feature the impressive Peasey Beck Aqueduct, offering interesting sights along the way.


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