The best walks and hikes in Blackburn with Darwen

Yes, Blackburn with Darwen has many options for families. Witton Country Park is a popular choice with 480 acres of varied terrain, playgrounds, and accessible paths. For a scenic reservoir walk, the Wayoh Reservoir Dam – Bradshaw Brook Viaduct loop is an easy and relatively flat route that's great for all ages.

Dogs are welcome on most trails, but it's important to be responsible. In areas with livestock, particularly on the open moorlands, you should always keep your dog on a lead. Wooded areas like Roddlesworth Woods and parks such as Witton Country Park are excellent for dog walking, offering plenty of space and new scents to explore.

Many of the most popular hikes in the region are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same place without retracing your steps. Reservoir paths and moorland loops are common. For a longer circular challenge, the Roddlesworth Woods – Roddlesworth Reservoirs loop from Darwen combines woodland and waterside scenery into one rewarding circuit.

Several trails are accessible via public transport. Entwistle railway station is an excellent starting point, placing you directly at the trailhead for reservoir walks. For example, the Turton & Entwistle Reservoir loop begins right from the station, making for a convenient car-free day out.

For hikes up to the Jubilee Tower on Darwen Moor, a popular parking spot is near Roddlesworth Woods. From there, you can follow well-trodden paths up onto the moor. This location is also convenient as there is a well-regarded ramblers' cafe nearby, perfect for refreshments after your walk.

Yes, you can find waterfalls in the area's wooded valleys. One notable spot is the Old Briggs Brook Waterfall, a hidden gem located in a scenic, wooded area. While access can be a bit tricky, it's a rewarding sight for adventurous hikers exploring the trails around Darwen.

The landscape is a mix of rugged, heather-clad moorlands and tranquil wooded valleys. Many routes feature picturesque reservoirs, such as the Roddlesworth and Wayoh Reservoirs, offering gentle waterside paths. Higher routes, like those on Darwen Moor, provide expansive, panoramic views across Lancashire.

There are over 250 hiking routes to explore in Blackburn with Darwen, covering 280 miles of public rights of way. The trails range from easy, short loops perfect for an afternoon stroll to more challenging moderate hikes across the West Pennine Moors.

The region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the variety of the landscape, from the peaceful woodlands and reservoir paths to the wild, open feel of the moors. The well-maintained trails and iconic landmarks like the Darwen Tower are also frequently mentioned as highlights.

For a more substantial walk, consider the Entwistle Reservoir – Turton and Entwistle Reservoir loop from North Turton. This moderate route is around 7.6 miles (12.3 km) and combines two of the area's most scenic reservoirs, offering a good mix of waterside paths and gentle climbs.

The Witton Weavers Way is a 32-mile circular long-distance trail that explores the wider Blackburn with Darwen area. It's divided into four shorter, named sections (The Beamers, Reelers, Tacklers, and Warpers Trails), which can be walked individually. The route takes you through parks, farmland, woodlands, and along riversides, showcasing the region's diverse heritage and landscapes.