Best attractions and places to see around Colne offer a blend of historical sites, natural landscapes, and cultural venues in Lancashire, England. The area is characterized by prominent natural landmarks like Pendle Hill and the South Pennines, providing diverse opportunities for exploration. Visitors can find challenging climbs, scenic trails, and serene parks. The region also features historical buildings and cultural points of interest.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
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Have a chat to Oliver in the market Square or in Wellington Street.
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Parking is £2. There is a portaloo and a bin in the carpark. This hike was limited in what you could see, in August the trees and weeds blocked most of the view. For safety note that the pathway takes the narrow road that cars are entering and exiting. There are two crossings over the guided path where the buses are traveling at speed. The first part of the walk by the Ouse was lovely as was the last part on a field where you ton off by the weight limited bridge. I would imagine in winter the path would be a mush pit.
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The cycleway passes between a series of scenic lakes formed from old sand and gravel quarries, now a nature reserve. The path is often flooded and unpassable for road bikes between autumn and spring though.
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The tarmac cycle lane runs parallel to the bus-way, both providing an excellent link between Huntingdon and Cambridge. Cycle-parks at each major bus stop.
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The bus whizzes through the yellow grain landscape like oiled lightning. The intercity bus from Cambridge to St Ivy rolls over a special lane bus track and reaches an impressive speed. Today he transports the four of us to the "Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve", in the lake landscape we hike and do "birdwatching". “Fen Drayton Lakes was originally a flooded sand and gravel pit bordering river floodplains. Today the area is a magnet for a variety of wildlife including otters, dragonflies, ducks, swans and geese. There is something to see (and hear) here all year round.” (https://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/reserves-a-z/fen-drayton-lakes/)
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Like many nature reserves in England, Godmanchester Nature Reserve was once gravel pits. The peaceful nature could not be further away from its industrial history. Keep an eye out for songbirds, ducks, geese, kingfishers and overwintering wildfowl as you run through.
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Colne is surrounded by diverse natural landscapes. You can hike up Pendle Hill, famous for its association with the Pendle Witches, offering challenging climbs and scenic views. Another option is Wycoller Country Park, a picturesque, car-free environment with historic buildings and the unique Atom (Panopticon) art sculpture. For more strenuous hikes and panoramic views, consider Boulsworth Hill, the highest point in the South Pennines. The Leeds and Liverpool Canal (Foulridge Section) also offers lovely routes for cycling and walking.
Yes, Colne has a rich history reflected in its landmarks. St Bartholomew's Church is one of Colne's oldest buildings, with parts dating back to the 12th century. You can also see the grand Colne Town Hall, designed by Alfred Waterhouse, and the historic 15th-century Market Cross. Don't miss the Wallace Hartley Memorial, which pays tribute to the Titanic's bandleader, a famous son of Colne.
Colne boasts several cultural venues. The British in India Museum, housed in a former Methodist chapel, showcases an impressive collection of artifacts. For local history, visit the Colne Heritage Centre. The town is also home to three theatres: The Muni Theatre Colne, Colne Little Theatre, and Pendle Hippodrome Theatre, offering a variety of entertainment.
The area around Colne is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous routes for road cycling, mountain biking, and running. For example, there are various road cycling loops like the "Tom's Cakes – St Ives Bridge and Chapel loop" or mountain biking trails such as the "Jesus Green – King's College Chapel loop". Running enthusiasts can explore routes like the "Ballast Hole Lake – Olive's Coffee Shop loop". You can find more details on these and other routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Colne, MTB Trails around Colne, and Running Trails around Colne guides.
Yes, Colne and its surroundings offer several family-friendly options. Wycoller Country Park is a car-free environment perfect for leisurely walks and exploring historic ruins. Ball Grove Park provides a serene setting for picnics and strolls. The Leeds and Liverpool Canal (Foulridge Section) is also suitable for family bike rides or walks. Additionally, the local theatres often have family-oriented shows.
For a unique art experience, visit the Atom (Panopticon), an intriguing art sculpture resting on a hillside above Wycoller village within Wycoller Country Park. It offers great views of the surrounding landscape.
Colne hosts a couple of significant annual events. The Colne Blues Festival, formerly known as The Great British Rhythm and Blues Festival, is held every August bank holiday and draws large crowds. The town also celebrates its culinary scene with the Colne Food Festival, showcasing local venues and produce.
Absolutely. The Colne Bridge Riverside Nature Area, located upstream of the 18th-century Colne Bridge, features mixed woodland and riverside paths, providing a tranquil habitat where you might spot wildlife like kingfishers and herons. Ball Grove Park is another serene spot ideal for leisurely walks.
The Colne Heritage Trail is a fascinating route that highlights the stories of notable figures from Colne's past. It's a great way to learn about the town's history and its significant residents, including Wallace Hartley, the bandleader of the Titanic.
Yes, the region offers stunning views. The summit of Pendle Hill provides excellent vistas into the Forest of Bowland. For even more expansive panoramas, hike up Boulsworth Hill, where on a clear day, you can see into the Lake District, Forest of Bowland, and across the South Pennines.


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