Best mountain peaks around Gisburn Forest are situated within the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, characterized by its hilly terrain and extensive woodlands. While Whelpstone Crag is the highest point directly within the forest, the broader region features numerous other peaks. The area is known for its challenging hills, providing a diverse backdrop for walking and cycling trails. These natural features offer significant vistas across the Ribble Valley and the wider landscape.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
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Also on a very clear day you can see Blackpool Tower to the west, approx 40 miles away.
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There are quite a few ways up/down to the summit. It also seems to be quite popular with rock climbers.
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It's a steep ascent up here over rough limestone, but the views are superb and the sense of reward is worth the hard work
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Weets Hill rises to 1,302 feet (397 m) above Barnoldswick and features on the Pendle Way, a 45-mile (72 km) loop of the region. It's the second highest point on the walk, behind the eponymous Pendle Hill. Views from the summit are extensive on a clear day, with the Aire Valley, the Ribble Valley and the distant Yorkshire Dales all visible. The famous Yorkshire Three Peaks are arrayed with Inglebrough on the left, Whernside in the middle and Pen-y-ghent on the right. There's also a bench near the trig point, so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the panorama.
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Sugar Loaf Hill (366m) is a lovely green, grassy hill near the town of Settle. No trig point, so just drop your bag onto the grass, and enjoy the views! - particularly dramatic to the north where Attermire Scar and Settle Scar are (with some of the interesting caves in there for the adventurous of you).
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It's really worth the sometimes steep and rough hike to the top of Warrendale Knotts for the superb views over the spectacular local limestone formations, as well as the far ranging views to the Three Peaks
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A stunning view of my favourite of the Yorkshire 3 Peaks - Pen-y-ghent - from the Dales High Way trail. The profile of this brilliant mountain from this angle is so beautiful.
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Among the most popular peaks, Weets Hill Summit & Trig Point offers extensive views of the Aire Valley, Ribble Valley, and even the distant Yorkshire Dales. Visitors also highly rate Sugar Loaf Hill for its dramatic views towards Attermire Scar and Settle Scar, and Warrendale Knotts Trig Point for its superb vistas over local limestone formations and the Three Peaks.
Yes, **Whelpstone Crag** is the most notable 'mountain peak' directly within Gisburn Forest. It stands as the highest point in the forest, offering outstanding panoramic views across the Ribble Valley and the wider Forest of Bowland. It's also known for a challenging section of mountain biking trails.
The peaks around Gisburn Forest are renowned for their extensive and panoramic views. From Weets Hill Summit & Trig Point, you can see the Aire Valley, Ribble Valley, and on clear days, even the distant Yorkshire Dales and Blackpool Tower. Smearsett Scar Trig Point provides terrific views of upper Ribblesdale and the phenomenal silhouette of Pen-y-ghent.
For a challenging experience, the ascent to Warrendale Knotts Trig Point involves a steep and rough hike over limestone, but rewards with superb views. The broader region, including peaks like Pendle Hill, also offers demanding walks. Gisburn Forest itself is characterized by challenging hills, providing a diverse backdrop for trails.
While many peaks offer challenging terrain, Gisburn Forest and its surroundings also feature easier walking trails. For specific family-friendly routes, you can explore the Easy hikes around Gisburn Forest guide, which includes routes like the Stocks Hide loop and the Ribble Valley Jubilee Trail.
The area is defined by its dramatic and challenging hilly terrain, extensive woodlands, and limestone formations. Beyond the peaks, you'll find features like the Ribble Valley and the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. An ancient bowl barrow, an oval earthen mound, is also located near Brown Hills Beck.
The region is excellent for various outdoor activities. Gisburn Forest is particularly known for its extensive network of walking and award-winning mountain biking trails. You can find detailed routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Gisburn Forest and Cycling around Gisburn Forest guides, as well as the Easy hikes around Gisburn Forest guide.
Visitors particularly enjoy the rewarding climbs and the significant vistas offered by the peaks. The sense of achievement after a steep ascent, combined with the superb panoramic views, is a common highlight. Many appreciate the opportunity to sit back and enjoy the scenery from spots like the bench near Weets Hill Summit & Trig Point.
While the focus is on natural peaks, Gisburn Forest does contain an ancient bowl barrow, an oval earthen mound, near Brown Hills Beck. This archaeological feature adds a touch of history to the natural landscape.
Bowland Knotts, at 430.7 meters (1413 feet), is the highest point among the peaks listed in the guide, offering impressive views over the Forest of Bowland.
For the best experience, visiting on a clear day is highly recommended to fully appreciate the extensive panoramic views. For peaks like Bowland Knotts, a calm and dry day is specifically suggested to make the most of your visit.
For additional information about Gisburn Forest and Stocks Reservoir, including visitor facilities and general details, you can visit the official Ribble Valley tourism website: visitribblevalley.co.uk.


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