4.5
(936)
9,078
hikers
34
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Barrowford offer access to a diverse landscape in Lancashire, characterized by prominent hills, historic waterways, and tranquil natural features. The region includes the commanding Pendle Hill, parts of the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and the Leeds & Liverpool Canal. Hikers can explore a mix of moorland, river valleys, woodlands, and canal-side paths. This varied terrain provides options ranging from gentle strolls to more challenging ascents.
Last updated: May 26, 2026
32
hikers
5.16km
01:21
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
30
hikers
4.18km
01:06
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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20
hikers
11.7km
03:00
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
20
hikers
5.36km
01:24
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
12
hikers
11.0km
03:08
240m
240m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Barrowford
On the narrow grass verge between the road and the footpath in the village of Roughlee stands a memorial to Alice Nutter. Approaching cyclists from a distance might immediately think, "What a lovely statue." But anyone who stops to take a closer look will surely notice the woman's hands bound with a heavy iron chain, as well as the sad expression on her face. Alice Nutter was born around 1560 and, along with several other women, was convicted of witchcraft and executed in 1612.
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She patiently waits here, on the narrow grassy strip between the road and the footpath in the village of Roughlee. From a distance, the slowly approaching hiker might spontaneously think, "What a lovely monument." But up close, the attentive observer will not fail to notice the hands bound with a heavy iron chain, nor the sad expression on this woman's face. Her name is Alice Nutter. She was born around 1560 and in 1612—along with several other women—was convicted of witchcraft and executed.
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Built in the 1930's as a water treatment works. The attractive building as now been converted into residential properties.
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This is a mile-long tunnel locates on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. It is the longest tunnel on the canal and due to its narrow design boats would once be legged through it. This is a risky practice where people would walk along the tunnel walls pulling the boats. Today, access to the tunnel is managed through timed light signals to ensure safe passage.
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Excellent food. Not open too late though so get there early to avoid disappointment
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Nice little house, very well looked after.
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There are over 35 hiking trails accessible directly from bus stations around Barrowford, offering a variety of experiences for all skill levels. This makes it easy to enjoy the local countryside without needing a car.
Yes, nearly 20 of the routes starting from bus stations around Barrowford are rated as easy. A great option for a gentle stroll is the Canal Locks Near Burnley – Barrowford Locks loop from Barrowford, which follows the scenic Leeds & Liverpool Canal towpath.
Hikes from Barrowford bus stations offer a diverse range of landscapes. You can explore historic canal towpaths, tranquil riverside paths along Pendle Water, and rolling hills. Some routes also provide views towards the dramatic Pendle Hill and the beautiful Forest of Bowland AONB.
Yes, many of the routes are circular, allowing you to return to your starting point without retracing your steps. For example, the Barrowford Locks – Canal Locks Near Burnley loop from Nelson is an easy circular route that showcases the historic canal locks.
You can discover several notable features. The historic Barrowford Locks on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal are a highlight. Depending on your chosen route, you might also catch glimpses of the iconic Pendle Hill summit trig point or enjoy views towards the The Singing Ringing Tree. The area is rich in natural beauty, including Pendle Water and various viewpoints.
Many of the easier routes are well-suited for families. The flat, well-maintained towpaths along the Leeds & Liverpool Canal are particularly good for children. Barrowford Park also offers a wetland area and lake for gentler strolls.
Most trails around Barrowford are dog-friendly, but it's always advisable to keep dogs on a lead, especially when passing through farmland with livestock or in nature conservation areas. The canal towpaths are generally a good option for walks with dogs.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessibility of the trails from public transport, the variety of landscapes from canal paths to hill views, and the historical charm of the villages and waterways.
Yes, for those seeking a greater challenge, routes like the Barley (village) – Pendle Hill summit trig point loop from Nelson offer significant elevation gain and cover longer distances, providing panoramic views from Pendle Hill.
Barrowford village itself has several cafes and pubs where you can refresh before or after your hike. Many routes, especially those along the canal, pass through or near villages that offer hospitality options. For example, the Nelson Waterworks Filter House – The Cabin Café loop from Nelson specifically highlights a cafe along its path.
Barrowford offers enjoyable hiking year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer provides lush greenery, and autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Even in winter, the lower-level canal paths can be pleasant, though higher routes like Pendle Hill require appropriate gear for potentially colder and windier conditions.


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