4.6
(1097)
10,800
hikers
10
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Nelson offer access to the varied landscapes of Lancashire, characterized by a network of canals, reservoirs, and rolling hills. The region features a mix of rural paths, often following waterways or ascending to viewpoints over the surrounding countryside. Hikers can explore areas with historical industrial heritage alongside natural beauty. The terrain typically includes gentle ascents and descents, making it suitable for a range of abilities.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
6
hikers
9.19km
02:31
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
5.80km
01:37
110m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
13
hikers
10.6km
02:47
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
3.46km
00:58
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
5.96km
01:39
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Nelson
Castercliff 278.8m P15.8 (915ft) (Hill ID: 512423) [JNSA s10679] South Pennines Definitive List summit. County of Lancashire Definitive List summit.
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Walton Spire Cross [Walton's Monument, The Nelson Cross] Standing Stone (Menhir) : The Megalithic Portal and Megalith Map: https://share.google/5faBzwsRagMvbkYnu
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T:UK - Shelfield Farm https://share.google/RgyGkxb5OyaLQ9GJz
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T:UK - Shelfield Farm Monument https://share.google/wBYKuJwAyVrBK0swv
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This is a mile-long tunnel locates on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. It is the longest tunnel on the canal and due to its narrow design boats would once be legged through it. This is a risky practice where people would walk along the tunnel walls pulling the boats. Today, access to the tunnel is managed through timed light signals to ensure safe passage.
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The village of Barrowford is the traditional start point for the Pendle Way, a 45-mile (72 km) loop of the Pendle district. The hike begins from the Pendle Heritage Centre, a great place to learn more about the region’s rich history. The village boasts a couple of pubs, a wine bar and a restaurant, though neighbouring Nelson is a better bet for accommodation.
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These days a nature reserve and popular walking spot, Walverden Reservoir was built to supply water to the town of Nelson. Work was completed in 1869, damming the flow of Walverden Water. As Nelson's demands grew, a new reservoir was constructed at Coldwell in 1884 and again in 1935.
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There are 15 bus-accessible hiking trails around Nelson featured in this guide. These routes offer a convenient way to explore the area without needing a car.
Yes, 10 of the 15 routes in this guide are rated as easy, making them suitable for a relaxed outing. An example is the Barrowford Locks – Canal Locks Near Burnley loop from Nelson, which is just over 6 km long.
The trails offer a variety of landscapes, from canal-side paths to reservoir views and gentle climbs. For example, the View of Pendle Water – Higherford Packhorse Bridge loop from Nelson provides scenic views of Pendle Water.
Yes, all the routes listed in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end your hike at the same bus stop. This includes routes like the Foulridge Wharf and Café – Barrowford Locks loop from Nelson.
The bus-accessible trails around Nelson are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1000 ratings. Hikers often praise the accessibility and varied scenery of these routes.
Many routes provide excellent vantage points. The Walverden Reservoir – View from Marsden Heights loop from Nelson, for instance, offers great views from Marsden Heights.
Absolutely. There are 5 moderate routes available. The Foulridge Wharf and Café – Barrowford Locks loop from Nelson is a moderate option spanning over 10 km.
The area around Nelson offers several points of interest. You can find various reservoirs like Clowbridge Reservoir or Hurstwood Reservoir. For those interested in peaks, highlights include the Pendle Hill summit trig point.
Yes, for a shorter, easy walk, consider the View from Marsden Heights loop from Nelson, which is just over 4 km and offers pleasant views.
Beyond the trails themselves, you can explore natural monuments such as the Whirlaw Stones Trig Point or Lad Law (Boulsworth Hill) Summit, offering unique geological features and views.
Many routes incorporate water features. The Barrowford Locks – Canal Locks Near Burnley loop from Nelson follows canal locks, while the Walverden Reservoir – View from Marsden Heights loop from Nelson offers views of Walverden Reservoir.


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