The best walks and hikes around Foulridge

Yes, many trails in the Foulridge area are great for walking with dogs. The canal towpaths and reservoir paths are particularly suitable. However, be aware that you will likely cross fields with livestock, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead in these areas.

Foulridge offers several gentle walks perfect for families. The paths around the reservoirs are mostly flat and provide great scenery without strenuous climbs. For a very accessible and short option, the Lake Burwain loop is a great choice. Langroyd Country Park is also noted for its easy, level surfaced paths.

Yes, the area is ideal for circular hikes. The network of paths around the reservoirs, along the canal, and through the surrounding hills means most routes are designed as loops. This allows you to experience a variety of landscapes, from waterside paths to gentle hills, and end up back where you started.

For expansive views, the trails that climb to higher ground are your best bet. The ascent to Noyna Hill offers fantastic vistas over the Ribble Valley. Even on lower-level reservoir walks, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside with the iconic Pendle Hill often visible in the distance.

Several routes pass near or are designed to include a stop at a local pub. The Cannon's Pub & Eatery loop is a moderate walk that incorporates a refreshment stop. Additionally, the village of Foulridge and the areas along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal have pubs that are easily accessible from the towpath.

The paths around the Foulridge reservoirs, such as Lake Burwain and Slipper Hill Reservoir, are generally flat and well-maintained. You can expect a mix of waterside paths offering direct views of the water and trails that run through adjacent farmland and gentle countryside, providing a varied and pleasant walking experience.

Absolutely. The canal towpath provides a long, level, and scenic walking route. A highlight is the section around the historic Foulridge Tunnel, which opened in 1796. You can follow a route like the Foulridge Tunnel – Lake Burwain loop which combines the canal with surrounding hills.

There are several informal parking spots and small car parks in the area, often near the main trailheads at Foulridge Wharf or close to the reservoirs. For popular routes, it's always a good idea to arrive early, especially on weekends, and to park considerately without blocking access for local residents or farm vehicles.

Yes, for a change of scenery from the open reservoirs, you can incorporate woodland into your hike. Alkincoats Forest and the nearby Alkincoats Woodland Nature Reserve offer lovely, sheltered trails. These can be included as part of a longer circular walk starting from the Colne area.

The routes around Foulridge are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 stars. Hikers often praise the beautiful scenery that combines waterways and rolling hills, and the variety of well-marked paths suitable for different abilities.

Yes, Foulridge is an excellent base for tackling sections of well-known long-distance trails. The village is on the route of the Pendle Way, a 45-mile path that explores the stunning Pendle countryside. You can easily join the trail for a day's hike to experience a portion of this classic Lancashire walk.

This is a traditional trail that follows the historic parish boundary of Foulridge. It's a longer, more challenging route that showcases the full diversity of the local landscape, from the reservoirs and canal to the higher, more remote ground. More information can be found on the Visit Pendle website.