4.6
(1102)
11,289
hikers
13
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Nelson offer access to the varied landscapes of Lancashire, characterized by a network of canals, reservoirs, and rolling hills. The region features a mix of rural paths, often following waterways or ascending to viewpoints over the surrounding countryside. Hikers can explore areas with historical industrial heritage alongside natural beauty. The terrain typically includes gentle ascents and descents, making it suitable for a range of abilities.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
5.0
(1)
31
hikers
6.06km
01:36
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
9.19km
02:31
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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7
hikers
5.80km
01:37
110m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
13
hikers
10.6km
02:47
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
4.22km
01:11
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Nelson
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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The village of Barrowford is the traditional start point for the Pendle Way, a 45-mile (72 km) loop of the Pendle district. The hike begins from the Pendle Heritage Centre, a great place to learn more about the region’s rich history. The village boasts a couple of pubs, a wine bar and a restaurant, though neighbouring Nelson is a better bet for accommodation.
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These days a nature reserve and popular walking spot, Walverden Reservoir was built to supply water to the town of Nelson. Work was completed in 1869, damming the flow of Walverden Water. As Nelson's demands grew, a new reservoir was constructed at Coldwell in 1884 and again in 1935.
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The Pendle Heritage Centre, converted from the historic Park Hill House, is dedicated to the region's history and culture. There's a museum where you can learn about the infamous Witch Trials, as well as more about George Fox and the Quakers, and about Park Hill itself. The Centre also has a shop, walled garden, a bluebell wood and a cafe.
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Constructed in the late 16th or early 17th century, this bridge was ingeniously designed to accommodate packhorse trains transporting coal from the vicinity of Gisburn. As the town's oldest bridge, it holds a significant place in its history. Remarkably, it has been recognized for its historical importance and is proudly listed as a Grade II* protected structure.
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Drop your seat post over the bumps. Saturday mornings are very busy on the pump track.
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Free. Always open. Ride counter clockwise. Have fun.
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There are 15 bus-accessible hiking trails around Nelson featured in this guide. These routes offer a convenient way to explore the area without needing a car.
Yes, 10 of the 15 routes in this guide are rated as easy, making them suitable for a relaxed outing. An example is the Barrowford Locks – Canal Locks Near Burnley loop from Nelson, which is just over 6 km long.
The trails offer a variety of landscapes, from canal-side paths to reservoir views and gentle climbs. For example, the View of Pendle Water – Higherford Packhorse Bridge loop from Nelson provides scenic views of Pendle Water.
Yes, all the routes listed in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end your hike at the same bus stop. This includes routes like the Foulridge Wharf and Café – Barrowford Locks loop from Nelson.
The bus-accessible trails around Nelson are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1000 ratings. Hikers often praise the accessibility and varied scenery of these routes.
Many routes provide excellent vantage points. The Walverden Reservoir – View from Marsden Heights loop from Nelson, for instance, offers great views from Marsden Heights.
Absolutely. There are 5 moderate routes available. The Foulridge Wharf and Café – Barrowford Locks loop from Nelson is a moderate option spanning over 10 km.
The area around Nelson offers several points of interest. You can find various reservoirs like Clowbridge Reservoir or Hurstwood Reservoir. For those interested in peaks, highlights include the Pendle Hill summit trig point.
Yes, for a shorter, easy walk, consider the View from Marsden Heights loop from Nelson, which is just over 4 km and offers pleasant views.
Beyond the trails themselves, you can explore natural monuments such as the Whirlaw Stones Trig Point or Lad Law (Boulsworth Hill) Summit, offering unique geological features and views.
Many routes incorporate water features. The Barrowford Locks – Canal Locks Near Burnley loop from Nelson follows canal locks, while the Walverden Reservoir – View from Marsden Heights loop from Nelson offers views of Walverden Reservoir.


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