The best walks and hikes around Wyre

This guide focuses on the Borough of Wyre in Lancashire, which offers a mix of coastal walks, riverside paths along the River Wyre, and hikes in the Forest of Bowland. It is different from the Wyre Forest, which is a large woodland located in Worcestershire and Shropshire.

Yes, the Wyre region has many options for families. The Cartford Inn Walk loop from Great Eccleston is a gentle, mostly flat route perfect for a relaxed outing. Additionally, the Wyre Estuary Country Park is highly regarded and offers easy-access paths suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs, with a playground and picnic areas.

The region is excellent for circular hikes. For a challenging day out with rewarding views, the Grizedale Brook Wooden Pathway – Nicky Nook Summit loop from St Peters offers a varied trek through woodland and up to a popular viewpoint. Many other loop trails are available, ranging from coastal strolls to countryside rambles.

Dogs are welcome on most public footpaths in Wyre. Coastal and estuary paths are particularly popular with dog walkers. When hiking near farmland or in nature reserves like those in the Forest of Bowland, please keep your dog on a lead to protect livestock and wildlife, especially during nesting season.

The main long-distance path is the Wyre Way, which follows the River Wyre for 41 miles from its source to the sea. For a substantial day hike that covers a section of this, consider The Wyre Way Fleetwood Peninsula Loop from Knott End, a challenging 28.7 km route exploring the coastline.

The parts of the Forest of Bowland within Wyre offer some of the most challenging and scenic hikes in Lancashire. Expect ascents up prominent fells, open moorland, and panoramic views. Trails can be boggy after rain, so proper waterproof hiking boots are essential. A good example of a demanding hike here is the Parlick Fell summit – Fair Snape Fell Summit loop from Bleasdale.

Wyre's coastline provides fantastic opportunities for hiking. A popular route is the Hall Gardens Café – Beach Lighthouse (Fleetwood) loop from Fleetwood, which follows the promenade and offers wide sea views. The area around Cleveleys is also known for its beach walks and unique public art along the seafront.

There are over 200 hiking routes to explore around Wyre. The collection includes approximately 110 easy routes perfect for gentle walks and over 110 moderate trails for those seeking more of a challenge, ensuring plenty of options for all fitness levels.

The trails around Wyre are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the variety of scenery, from the peaceful riverside paths of the Wyre Way to the stunning coastal views and the well-maintained tracks around local landmarks like Nicky Nook.

Yes, the Wyre Estuary is a key feature of the region and a great place for walking. The Wyre Estuary Country Park serves as a main hub, offering several marked trails. For a longer exploration, the Grizedale Reservoir – Applestore Cafe loop from St Peters takes you through the countryside that feeds into the estuary system.

For lovely reservoir scenery, the Grizedale Reservoir – Nicky Nook Summit loop from Oakenclough is an excellent choice. This moderate hike combines a walk around the water with an ascent of a local hill, providing great views over the reservoir and surrounding landscape.