Here at Holgates, we’re proud to offer the best accommodation for any kind of walking holidays in the Ribble Valley. Ribble Valley Walks are a great way of exploring the local area, with a combination of quaint villages, beautiful scenery and a range of unforgettable restaurants and cosy pubs.
What’s more, local walks in the Ribble Valley give you the opportunity to explore a wide range of historical sites, nature reserves and outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for an easy stroll or a challenging hike, we’ve got it covered.
Our walking holidays are great for families, friends or individuals wanting to explore the Ribble Valley in style and comfort. With a range of options including guided walks, self-guided and private tours, there’s something for everyone!
To get the most out of the valley’s wonders, the Holgates team has put together a list of 10 great, local walks for you to enjoy when visiting the Ribble Valley.
The Tolkien Trail
When writing the stories of Middle-Earth, the 20th-century writer, J. R. R. Tolkien was greatly inspired by the natural beauty of the Ribble Valley.
So, those searching for a Tolkien Walk Ribble Valley-wide will find that the Tolkien Trail provides the best POV experience of the writer’s journey through the beautiful landscape. It’s a circular walk suitable for all skill levels, which spans 5.5 miles long, starting and ending at the Shireburn Arms Hotel in the little village of Hurst Green.
Enjoy beautiful views of rolling hills, countryside, mysterious woodlands and picturesque rivers.
Find more information about the Tolkein Trail here – https://www.visitlancashire.com/things-to-do/the-tolkien-trail-in-the-footsteps-of-j-r-r-tolkien-p583810
Ribble Valley Sculpture Trail
One of the best options for dog walks in Ribble Valley is the sculpture trail in Brungerley Park, just outside Clitheroe. It spans over 1.5 miles of beautiful woodland with 22 pieces of art on display.
In addition to art, you’ll enjoy views of the breathtaking Forest of Bowland and the glassy River Ribble, which flanks the trail.
For more information on the Ribble Valley Sculpture Trail, visit the local council’s website – https://www.ribblevalley.gov.uk/parks-open-spaces/ribble-valley-sculpture-trail
Clitheroe 50k
If you’re looking for more of a challenge and some of the best countryside views in Lancashire, the Clitheroe 50k circular is for you. As the name suggests, this walk spans just over 31 miles, starting and ending in the town of Clitheroe.
It provides a scenic route that cuts straight through the Ribble Valley, crossing the quaint village of Whitewell, and Pendle Hill, the tallest point in the surrounding area. When you’re finished, make sure to celebrate by collecting a certificate of completion from the Clitheroe Tourist Information Centre.
Chipping to Parlick Pike
One of the most popular circular walks in Ribble Valley starts and ends in Chipping; a village with an old-timey feel and lots of character. The walk will take you up to Parlick Pike hill through exciting rugged terrain, including the beautiful Snape Fell, offering breathtaking views of fell tops that are often dotted with wildlife.
For more information, visit https://www.wandersmiles.com/chipping-circular-walk-fair-snape-fell-parlick-pike-lancashire/.
Walk up Pendle Hill from the Nick of Pendle
One of the best perks of this walk is the immediate majestic views from the starting point at Nick of Pendle. The circular walk up to the towering Pendle Hill, standing 577m tall to be exact, takes around 2.5 hours. Spanning a huge 6.6 miles in length.
At the summit of Pendle Hill, you’ll have magnificent views of Lancashire and Yorkshire, and on a clear day, you can see as far as Wales!
For more information, visit – https://www.lancswalks.co.uk/walks/pendle-hill-from-nick-of-pendle/
Circle the Stocks Reservoir
This is another great dog-friendly walk that circles the Stocks Reservoir, at the head of the River Hodder in the Forest of Bowland. This route will take you around the gorgeous reservoir, with a beautiful natural backdrop to match. It spans 9.23 miles and takes just under 4 hours to complete.
For more information, visit – https://www.explorebowland.co.uk/stocks-reservoir-walk/
Bolton-by-Bowland Walk
This circular 3-mile walk over mostly flat terrain takes around 1.5 hours to complete. It starts and ends in the tranquil, idyllic village of Bolton-by-Bowland, and takes you on a wonderful route across lush parkland, with views of the River Ribble and plenty of deer if you’re lucky.
For more information, visit – https://www.visitribblevalley.co.uk/download/bolton-by-bowland-circular-walk/
Dunsop Bridge to Chipping
Starting in the small village of Dunsop Bridge, famous for being the gateway to the Trough of Bowland valley, this walk takes you through 7.75 miles of picturesque valleys and moorland through to the village of Chipping, which has over 1,000 years of history to boast of. The total walking time is between 4-4.5 hours.
For more information, visit – https://www.forestofbowland.com/files/uploads/pdfs/walks/DunsopBrChipp.pdf
Explore John Smith’s Park
If you’re looking for a stroll with plenty of activities, visit John Smith’s Park. This is the site of a former quarry that provided the stone for the construction of many local buildings. Additionally the park offers sculpture trails, ceramics and orienteering activities.
For more information, visit – https://www.ribblevalley.gov.uk/parks-open-spaces/john-smiths-park-longridge
Riverside to Caton walk
For a quintessential British countryside walk, with plenty of idyllic eating spots, try the riverside walk, which starts and ends in the village of Caton. This walk is suitable for all skill levels, spanning 3.74 miles. The walk offers picture-perfect views of grass fields and takes you to the famous Crook O’Lune site; a popular location for picnics. You’ll also be lucky to take in beautiful wildlife, with special species visiting the riverbanks, depending on the season.
For more information, visit – https://catonvillage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Riverside-Walk.pdf
Ribble Valley Walking Holiday Homes
If you’re looking to spend a relaxing week enjoying nature in the Ribble Valley, then Holgates’ Ribble Valley location is perfect for you. With many walking routes from the door of your holiday home, and direct access to stunning nature reserves and footpaths, you’re sure to find plenty of ways to fill your days.
With beautiful views of Pendle Hill from your own front room, you’re sure to have a beautiful walking holiday that you won’t forget.
If you’re looking for the perfect accommodation for your Ribble Valley walking holiday, view our wide range of Ribble Valley holiday homes.
Book your stay
For some hard-earned relaxation after a full day of walking and adventure, look to Holgates Ribble Valley for perfectly situated accommodation. View Ribble Valley Holiday Homes Online to buy or Hire a Caravan or Lodge
Get in touch with our friendly team to find out more and how we can help make your stay unforgettable.
