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ribble valley walks

Walk Whalley Pendle hill

We are very lucky to be situated in the picturesque Ribble Valley, with many of it’s rolling hills and stunning landscapes designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – it’s a walkers paradise!

Whether you choose a serious ramble or a gentle stroll, you will be rewarded with breathtaking countryside.

Walks with Taste in the Ribble Valley - Circular pub walks

Combining wonderful walks with delicious food sounds like a winning formula to us- who doesn't love good walks and good food?

These 16 self-guided, circular walks by Ribble Valley Borough Council offer the perfect opportunity to walk in the stunning Ribble Valley countryside and finish with a hearty meal and a well deserved drink!

Each route starts and finishes at a delightful place to eat.

The walks vary in distance and terrain so there should be something to suit everyone! The hard part is deciding which walk to choose first! 

THE ASPINALL ARMS & THE RIBBLE VALLEY

A 3 mile circular pub walks from the Aspinall Arms taking in glorious riverside paths, gazing pastures, ancient lanes and wild moorland of Ribble Valley, with excellent views throughout.

The Aspinall Arms is a 19th Century coaching Inn, that sits on the banks of the River Ribble, overlooking the All Hallows' Medieval Church and Great Mitton Hall. 

DISTANCE: 4.8 km / 3 miles 

TIME: 1 ½ hours

MODERATE: Steep climbs and steps

Dog friendly: Livestock will be grazing in most of the fields, so please keep dogs under control and ideally on a lead.

Walks with Taste Aspinall Arms
Walks with Taste Inn at Whitewell

STEPPING STONES AND BURHOLME BRIDGE

An easy circular stroll across the River Hodder via the stepping stones, returning via Burholme Bridge. 

The Inn at Whitewell is a beautiful rural inn located on the banks of the River Hodder in the stunning Trough of Bowland. They only use the best of local ingredients, cooked simply to let the real quality shine through. The wonderfully relaxed and friendly atmosphere not to mention the recent accolade of 'Pub of the Year 2020' by The Good Pub Guide, make The Inn at Whitewell a place not to be missed.

Please note the stepping stones may be impassable when the river is in spate.

DISTANCE: 4.8 km / 3 miles 

TIME: 1 ½ hours

MODERATE: Some climbs and stepping stones.

DOG FRIENDLY: Livestock will be grazing in most of the fields, so please keep dogs under control and ideally on a lead.

RAMBLING ON THE RIVERBANK

This riverside circular ramble starts from the Shireburn Arms and descends through farmland to the River Ribble, crossing the impressive footbridge at Dinkley, then following the river downstream towards Ribchester, returning through the woods and pasture to Hurst Green & The Shireburn Arms.

This 17th century hostelry welcomes walkers with a relaxed, informal atmosphere in which to enjoy beautifully prepared food which pays homage to the regions fine produce. Open fireplaces are perfect for getting cosy while the south facing terrace is delightful when the sun shines.

DISTANCE: 8.7 km / 5.4 miles 

TIME: 2 ½ to 3 hours 

MODERATE: 175m of ascent, occassionally rough and uneven with several stiles.

Walks with Taste Shireburn Arms
Walks with Taste Coach and Horses

A RIVERSIDE RAMBLE AND PICNIC BESIDE THE RIBBLE

This easy walk takes in some beautiful Bowland scenery- on a clear day you will get a great view of Pendle Hill!

The Coach & Horses is a traditional Coaching Inn set in the idyllic village of Bolton-by-Bowland in the heart of the Ribble Valley. Newly renovated to restore its original glory, this Grade II listed inn comes with its own on site micro-brewery.

DISTANCE: 4.6 km / 3 miles 

TIME: 1 ½ hours

EASY: Some muddy / boggy areas in the winter

DOG FRIENDLY: Livestock will be grazing in most of the fields, so please keep dogs under control and ideally on a lead.

THE FOOTHILLS OF PENDLE FROM THE ASSHETON ARMS, DOWNHAM

This adventurous three-hour hike explores the foothills of Pendle, offering extensive views of the Ribble Valley, before diving into the wooded valleys beneath its flanks. It’s the perfect route for a Sunday morning ramble or a summer evening amble

The Assheton Arms overlooks the picture postcard village of Downham and has a large outdoor seating area with outstanding views of Pendle Hill. It has won a number of awards and is a favourite with locals and visitors alike.

DISTANCE: 7.8 km / 4.8 miles 

TIME: 2 ½ to 3 hours 

MODERATE: 250m of ascent some, short, steep climbs. Several stiles

Walks with Taste Assheton Arms
Walks with Taste Holmes Mill

A RIVERSIDE RAMBLE AND PICNIC BESIDE THE RIBBLE

This easy riverside ramble starts from Holmes Mill, where you can enjoy a pre- or post-walk meal or shop for some mouth-watering picnic treats before wandering through the grounds of Clitheroe's Normal Castle to the River Ribble - the perfect spot for an alfresco lunch or picnic supper.

Holmes Mill is a lovingly restored Victorian textile mill at the heart of the bustling market town of Clitheroe. It offers a unique dining, retail and leisure experience which includes a brewery, beer hall, hotel, restaurants, cafe and the extraordinary Bowland Food Hall; a temple to fine local food.

DISTANCE: 6.8 km / 4.2 miles

TIME: 1 ½ - 2 hours

EASY: 100 m of ascent on good paths with just a few stiles.

DOG FRIENDLY: Livestock will be grazing in most of the fields, so please keep dogs under control and ideally on a lead.

BEACON HILL FROM THE SPREAD EAGLE INN, SAWLEY

Admire spectacular panoramic views of the Yorkshire Dales, the Bowland Fells and the Ribble Valley on this rewarding hike to the summit of Beacon Hill before returning to the Spread Eagle via ancient drovers' tracks for a well-deserved drink.

Nestling in the beautiful village of Sawley, The Spread Eagle is a historic coaching inn. With the river running at one side and the remains of a Cistercian Sawley Abbey on the other, it boasts a picture perfect location. 

DISTANCE: 10 km / 6.2 miles

TIME: 3 ½ hours

CHALLENGING: A long, steady climb on field paths and tracks followed by a rugged descent.

Walks with Taste Spread Eagle
Walks with Taste Waddington Arms

UPHILL AND DOWN DALE AROUND LANCASHIRE'S PRETTIEST VILLAGE

A pleasant afternoon ramble through the pastures above Waddington and up onto the fell for breath-taking views over the Ribble Valley before returning via pretty wooded ghylls for a pint at a bustling pub at the heart of the village.

The Waddington Arms is a wonderfully welcoming country inn located beside an ancient bablling brook at at the hub of a vibrant village.

DISTANCE: 7 km / 4.3 miles

TIME: 2 - 2 ½ hours

MODERATE: 160m of ascent on good paths with several stiles.

DOG FRIENDLY: Livestock will be grazing in most of the fields, so please keep dogs under control and ideally on a lead.

PANORMAMIC VIEWS OF PENDLE FROM THE CALF'S HEAD, WORSTON

Explore the scenic foothills of the splendid Pendle Hill and enjoy panoramic views across the magnificent Ribble Valley, before returning to the cosy Calf's Head, in the beautiful village of Worston, for a tasty meal.

With large gardens & outdoor seating looking out onto Pendle Hill for those warmer days and cosy open fires for colder ones, you can't go wrong with this dog friendly pub!

DISTANCE: 3.5 km / 2.3 miles

TIME: 1 ½ hours

EASY: Gentle gradients up and down, with a few old stiles.

Walks with Taste Calf's Head
Walks with Taste 22 Derby Arms

A HILLTOP HIKE WITH HEAVENLY VIEWS

Climb uphill for show stopping 360-degree views across the Ribble Valley and Fylde coast before heading back to The Derby Arms.

Set in the lush Forest of Bowland, between Longridge and Chipping, the Derby Arms is popular with walkers who are able to enjoy some of the most remote walks in the English countryside. 

DISTANCE: 3.7 km / 2.3 miles

TIME: 1 hour

EASY- MODERATE: Steep inclines with muddy paths.

WONDERFUL COUNTRYSIDE WALK AROUND CHARMING WADDINGTON

A short, hillside walk featuring some wonderful panoramas of Pendle, beautiful scenery and lively animals, then replenish your palate at The Lower Buck with some amazing food and drink.

The Lower Buck is an independent, historic English country inn situated in the charming village of Waddington. Harking back to 1760, live the history with three real fires, wonderful discussions at the bar and well-behaved dogs in this true pub. 

DISTANCE: 3.3 km / 2.1 miles

TIME: Just under an hour

Easy-moderate: Can be muddy in wet weather

Walks with Taste 22 Lower Buck
Walks with Taste 22 The White Bull

A RIVERSIDE RAMBLE THROUGH ROMAN RIBCHESTER

A walk taking in beautiful countryside and rich heritage features. A combination of fascinating Roman remains and stunning riverside scenery, including views of the magnificent Pendle Hill, with the White Bull providing the perfect welcome on your return.

Located in the centre of the historic village of Ribchester, a former Roman settlement, The White Bull has recently reopened following a major refurbishment focussed on recovering all the original features to present a traditional British village pub.

DISTANCE: 4.8 km / 3 miles

TIME: 1 ½ hours

Easy-moderate: Can be muddy in wet weather

AMBLE THE BANKS OF A QUIET RIVER AND PEACEFUL VILLAGES

Amble along the well-trodden banks of the Ribble admiring this remarkably quiet section of a hidden industrial quarry.

The 3 Millstones is a small but perfectly formed restaurant which offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere that will make you feel right at home.

DISTANCE: 6.4 km / 4 miles

TIME: 1 ½ hours

Easy- moderate: Easy, mainly flat surfaces with gentle inclines along well-trodden paths

Walks with Taste Three Millstones
Walks with Taste Foxfields

PANORAMIC VIEWS BOTH NORTH AND SOUTH

Admire breathtaking views across two stunning landscapes. An early climb will be well worth it, with panoramic views across the Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty to the north and then, once you have crossed the hill, the Penines to the south. It is the perfect route for a mid-week escape followed by a sumptious meal.

The Foxfields Country Hotel is the home of Artisan Ribble Valley. Born out of passion of where they are from, this restaurant is a food celebration of county pride and Ribble Valley love.

DISTANCE: 4 km / 2.5 miles

TIME: 1 ½ - 2 hours

Fairly challenging: Early climb to the top of the hill, ladder stiles and perhaps boggy in places.

SPECTACULAR VIEWS OF PENDLE HILL AND A MEANDER THROUGH SABDEN

You will be rewarded with wonderful views of Pendle and the South Penines as you pass through pastoral countryside. The trees along the route are also particularly interesting, with the route passing through beautiful old Beech woods on the lowland followed by the shapes of weathered trees on the high ground.

Set in 36 acres of beautifully maintained gardens, the Best Western Higher Trapp Hotel, with on-site restaurant, is full of charm, comfort and luxury.

DISTANCE: 8 km / 5 miles

TIME: 2 - 2 ½ hours

Challenging: Long steady climb and a little wet in a few places.

Walks with Taste Higher Trapp
Walks with Taste 22 The Red Pump

FOLLOW THE FAIRIES THROUGH THE FIELDS STEEPED WITH HISTORY

Walk along ancient paths with neverending views, and get in touch with your inner nature lover as you wander further out into the wilderness.

Admist the outstanding natural beauty and sitting at the gateway to the Forest of Bowland, The Red Pump Inn not only has character by the bucketload but The Steakhouse is justly renowned for serving the finest steak around.

DISTANCE: 3.4 km / 2.1 miles

TIME: 1 hour

Easy-moderate: Slight gradients, Several old stiles and a steep ladder stile. Stout boots recommended.

Nick o’ Pendle and Jeppe the Knave’s Grave from Pendleton walk

A walk specially commissioned by Whalley Warm and Dry, courtesy of former Editor of Country Walking Magazine, Mark Sutcliffe.

This satisfying little hike explores the foothills of mighty Pendle and visits the grave of a highwaymen beheaded for his crimes in the middle ages then interred on the site of a much earlier Anglo-Saxon burial. The start and finish point adjacent to one of the finest real ale pubs in Britain is an added bonus…

Ribble Valley Jubilee Trail

Ribble Valley Jubilee Trail

This new 65 mile circular walking trail starts from right in front of the shop and takes in the beautiful Ribble Valley and Forest of Bowland (Area of Oustanding Natural Beauty). 

The route is split into seven easily manageable sections and is designed to be walked as a challenging three-day trek, or a more relaxed 5-7 day walking tour.

Along the way, the walk visits picture postcard villages like Downham and Slaidburn and also climbs to the summit of iconic Pendle Hill.

Full details including supporting route maps and a digital navigation App are available.

Walks in The Forest of Bowland - Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

The remarkable Forest of Bowland is not to be missed.

Expanses of sky above the wild dramatic sweep of open moorland. Gentle and tidy lowlands, criss-crossed with dry stone walls and dotted with picturesque farms and villages. This is a place like no other, a place with a strong sense of stepping back in time to a forgotten part of the English countryside.

The Forest of Bowland  was designated an AONB because of its unspoiled and richly diverse landscapes, wildlife and heritage. It stretches from the wooded cloughs of the Lune Valley in the north, to the majestic sweep of Pendle Hill in the south; and from the quiet lanes of Eldroth and Lawkland in the east through the pastoral Ribble Valley to Beacon Fell and Abbeystead in the west.

With so many wonderful places to walk in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, you are truly spoilt for choice! 

The Tolkien Trail

Tolkien Trail

Image courtesy of Andy Pritchard

Walk in the footsteps of author J.R.R Tolkien on this 5.5 mile circular trail and see the stunning landscapes that may have inspired him when writing Lord of the Rings, including Hobbiton and the Buckleberry Ferry.

J.R.R Tolkien regularly spent time at Stonyhurst College in the Ribble Valley whilst working on the ‘Lord of the Rings’. Renowned for his love of nature, it is thought that the beautiful countryside and woodlands in the Ribble Valley, inspired J.R.R Tolkien whilst working on the epic trilogy.

A number of names which occur in 'The Lord of The Rings' are similar to those found locally including Shire Lane (in Hurst Green) and River Shirebourn (similar to the family name which built Stonyhurst). The ferry at Hacking Boat House (still working when J.R.R. Tolkien was here) may have provided the inspiration for the Buckleberry Ferry in the book.

The Tolkien Trail is a 5.5 mile circular route starting and finishing at Hurst Green in the Ribble Valley, Lancashire, just a ten minute drive from us. The Shireburn Arms in Hurst Green is a great place to relax and dine after completing the walk.

Clitheroe 50k

Clitheroe 50k

Looking for a challenge? Want to clock up some miles for Country Walking's #walk1000miles? Why not complete the Clitheroe Ramblers 50k route? This wonderful circular walk takes you through the heart of the majestic Ribble Valley countryside. 

Clitheroe Ramblers

Clitheroe Ramblers, one of our local Ramblers groups, are a very active and friendly group and extend a warm welcome to new walkers. 

They have a wonderful programme of group walks suitable for all ages and abilities, all led by experienced walk leaders. 

Please check on the Clitheroe Ramblers website for the latest news and scheduled walks.

Opening hours:
Tuesday - Friday 9am - 5:45pm
& Saturday - 9am - 5pm.