The best walks and hikes around Barley
4.5
(249)
1,843
hikers
213
hikes
Hikes around Barley Lancashire are defined by the village's location at the foot of Pendle Hill within the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The terrain consists of rolling countryside, open moorland, and wooded valleys. Many routes feature the Ogden and Black Moss reservoirs, providing varied landscapes for hikers.
Best hiking trails around Barley
- The most popular hiking route is Newsells World War I Memorial loop from Barley, a 2.5 mile (4.1 km) trail that takes around 1 hour to complete. This is an easy route with a moderate amount of elevation gain.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Crab Plantation – Newsells World War I Memorial loop from Nuthampstead, a moderate 7.9 mile (12.7 km) path. The trail follows a mix of paths and tracks through open fields.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Periwinkle Hill loop from Barkway, a 3.2 mile (5.1 km) trail leading through agricultural landscapes, often completed in about 1 hour 20 minutes.
- Hiking around Barley is defined by ascents to prominent hills, walks around reservoirs, and paths through wooded valleys. The network of more than 200 routes offers options for different ability levels, from easy circular walks to more challenging hikes.
- The routes in Barley are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 200 reviews. More than 1,700 hikers have used komoot to explore Barley's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 8, 2026
4.4
(9)
33
hikers
12.7km
03:22
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
23
hikers
12.6km
03:18
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.3
(7)
20
hikers
12.7km
03:22
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
11
hikers
5.09km
01:19
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
6
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Great stop for breakfast, coffee or something more substantial
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Great breakfast here every day
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Great breakfast served every day. Friendly staff.
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Interesting history - lots of old photos etc in the pub. If you have a gravel / mtb you can follow a route behind the pub which goes along the old airfield roads.
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Lovely walk very wet and muddy in parts but snowdrops are blooming
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In periods when a large amount of rain is dumped in a short period of time, the stretch of Bell Lane outside the entrance to the farm is underwater. Access is just about possible via the verge on the southern side of Bell Lane.
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There's a memorial (and small museum) dedicated to the US bomber squadrons who flew from Nuthampstead during the war.
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The small village of Nuthampstead is notable for being the home to an RAF base during the Second World War. The base was used by the Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress heavy bombers, one of the War’s most iconic aircraft. The village is on the route of the Hertfordshire Way long-distance trail, which officially starts and ends in nearby Royston. If you're walking here, you can find sustenance and refreshment at the Woodman Inn.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is there parking available for hikes starting in Barley?
Yes, Barley has a main car park which is the most common starting point for many walks, including the popular ascent of Pendle Hill. You can find it near the Barley Picnic Site, which also has a cafe and visitor information. It's advisable to arrive early on weekends and holidays as it can get busy.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks around Barley?
Definitely. The Pendle Sculpture Trail is a fantastic option for families. It's an engaging walk through Aitken Wood featuring sculptures inspired by the local history of the Pendle Witches. For a simple circular route through the countryside, consider the Periwinkle Hill loop from Barkway.
Can I bring my dog on hikes around Barley?
Dogs are welcome on most trails around Barley, but it's essential to keep them under control. On open moorland like Pendle Hill and in areas with livestock, you must keep your dog on a lead. After your walk, the Pendle Inn in the village is a popular dog-friendly pub.
How difficult is the climb up Pendle Hill from Barley?
The climb up Pendle Hill is a rewarding challenge. While some paths, like the 'steep route', are very direct and strenuous, there are several other routes to the summit of varying difficulty. The ascent is manageable for most people with a good level of fitness, and the panoramic views from the top are well worth the effort.
Are there any circular walks that start and end in Barley village?
Yes, Barley is an excellent starting point for circular hikes. Many routes are loops that take you up Pendle Hill and back, or around the nearby Ogden and Black Moss reservoirs. For a longer, more varied circular walk, the Crab Plantation – Newsells World War I Memorial loop from Barkway offers a great experience through the surrounding fields and tracks.
What is the Pendle Sculpture Trail?
The Pendle Sculpture Trail is a unique walk located in Aitken Wood, near Barley. It features a series of sculptures created by different artists, all inspired by the story of the 1612 Pendle Witch Trials. The trail is well-marked and offers a fascinating blend of art, history, and nature, passing by the scenic Black Moss reservoirs.
Are there any hikes with waterfalls near Barley?
While the immediate Barley area is known more for its reservoirs and hill views, picturesque streams and small waterfalls can be found in the wooded valleys and cloughs, especially after rainfall. Exploring the routes that follow Ogden Clough on the way up Pendle Hill can be particularly scenic.
How many hiking trails are there around Barley?
There is a wide variety of options for all abilities. You can explore over 200 different routes starting from or passing through the Barley area, ranging from short, easy strolls to challenging all-day hikes into the Forest of Bowland.
What is the connection between Barley and the Pendle Witches?
Barley is at the heart of 'Pendle Witch Country'. The area's most famous landmark, Pendle Hill, was home to Demdike, one of the key figures in the 1612 witch trials. Many local walks, including the long-distance Pendle Way and the Pendle Sculpture Trail, are themed around this dramatic local history.
Can I get to Barley using public transport?
Getting to Barley via public transport can be challenging as it's a rural village. Bus services are limited and may not run frequently, especially on weekends. Most visitors arrive by car. It is best to check local bus timetables from nearby towns like Burnley or Nelson for the most current information.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails around Barley?
The area is highly regarded by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the stunning panoramic views from the summit of Pendle Hill and the variety of the landscape, which includes open moorland, wooded valleys, and tranquil reservoirs. The well-maintained paths are also frequently mentioned.
Are there any long-distance footpaths that pass through Barley?
Yes, Barley is a key point on the Pendle Way, a 45-mile (72 km) circular trail that explores the beautiful and historic landscapes of the Pendle district. You can walk sections of this trail as day hikes starting from the village.
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