4.5
(930)
8,175
hikers
10
hikes
Urban hiking trails around Barnoldswick are situated within the Pennines, characterized by rolling hills and rural farmland. The area is notable for its position at the highest point of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, providing unique waterside walking opportunities. Footpaths often traverse serene meadows and historic towpaths, offering accessible routes for exploring the town's surroundings.
Last updated: July 4, 2026
34
hikers
6.25km
01:38
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
3.06km
00:48
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
2.23km
00:34
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Barnoldswick
Nice spot to catch the sun and take a break. Good cafe here too. A friendly place 👍
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The highest part of the leeds liverpool canal there's a cafe and benches to rest and take in the views
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Can make out one of the Rolls Royce turbo fan engines through the bushes and fence, next to the towpath.
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The highest point of the canal. From here, all the way back to Leeds, or all the way on to Liverpool, is downhill all the way.
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Originally a three-rise lock, Greenberfield Locks were adapted to three separate single locks in 1820. Above the second lock, you'll spot an old limekiln. Lime used to be carried between Yorkshire and Lancashire along this section of the canal for use in the fields.
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Really taking the mixed-surface to the next level with a 50m section of decent sett
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Great chance to try out your tekkerz on the way down to the canal tow path
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Barnoldswick offers a selection of 10 easy urban hiking trails, perfect for exploring the town and its immediate surroundings. These routes are generally flat and well-suited for a relaxed stroll.
Urban hikes in Barnoldswick primarily feature pleasant towpath walks along the historic Leeds & Liverpool Canal, as well as paths through rolling farmland and local parks. The area is known for its gentle hills and distinctive limestone landscape, offering varied but generally accessible terrain.
Yes, many of the urban trails around Barnoldswick are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the Greenberfield Locks – Canal Towpath Steps loop offers a scenic circular route along the canal.
The easy, flat nature of Barnoldswick's urban trails makes them ideal for families. Routes like the Canal Towpath Steps loop are short and manageable, perfect for a leisurely outing with children. The towpaths are generally pushchair-friendly.
Yes, Barnoldswick's urban trails are generally dog-friendly. The canal towpaths and local park trails provide excellent opportunities for walks with your canine companion. Always remember to keep dogs on a lead where livestock may be present and to clean up after them.
While hiking in Barnoldswick, you can explore the historic Leeds & Liverpool Canal, particularly around the Greenberfield Locks, which is the highest point on the canal. Nearby attractions include the Alice Nutter Statue and the charming Downham Village. You might also spot various local art installations.
While the immediate urban trails are generally flatter, Barnoldswick is surrounded by hills like Weets Hill, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and even the distant Yorkshire Dales. Some urban routes may offer glimpses of these wider landscapes. For more expansive vistas, consider visiting Sharp Haw Summit or Pendle Hill summit trig point, which are accessible from the wider Barnoldswick area.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil canal-side walking opportunities, the easy accessibility of the trails, and the pleasant scenery of the rolling hills and farmland that characterize the Barnoldswick area.
Absolutely. For a shorter, refreshing walk, consider the Canal Towpath Steps – Greenberfield Locks loop, which is just over 3 kilometers. It's a perfect option for a quick escape into nature without venturing too far from town.
Barnoldswick town centre offers various parking options, making it convenient to access the urban trails. Many routes, especially those along the canal, are easily reachable from the town, allowing you to park centrally and begin your walk.
Yes, Barnoldswick town centre has a selection of cafes and pubs where you can refuel before or after your urban hike. The Clarion House is a notable cafe in the wider area, and you'll find other establishments within the town itself.

