If you have ever been to the beautiful Ribble Valley or its surrounding areas, you are lucky to have witnessed a sheer abundance of beauty! Whether you live in the area or are simply visiting, there is no questioning that one of its finest qualities is the amazing walking trails.

With its rolling hills and stunning landscapes, this Area of Outstanding Beauty is a walker’s paradise. Whether you opt for a serious up-hill ramble or a smoother, more casual stroll, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views, amazing wildlife and truly fresh air. Here are just a few of the best walks in the Ribble Valley.

Best places to walk in Ribble Valley

1. The Tolkien Trail

This 5.5-mile circular trail allows you to witness first-hand the landscapes which inspired the writings of Tolkein, including Hobbiton and Buckleberry Ferry.

As you may (or may not!) know, J.R.R Tolkein loved spending time in the Ribble Valley, especially when working on Lord of the Rings. This stunning areas of woodland and countryside inspired him greatly for the epic trilogy.

When you read the books, you may realise some crossover, especially with a number of names which are similar to those found locally, including Shire Lane and River Shirebourn. The ferry at Hacking Boat House is said to have inspired the Buckleberry Ferry.

Starting and finishing at Hurst Green in the Ribble Valley, this walk reveals all the spots which the man himself will have wandered and scribed.

See a full route and further information on each spot here.

2. Clitheroe 50k

A bit more of a challenge than a calmer 5.5 miles, this whopping 50k route isn’t for the faint-hearted. It meanders through the heart of the Ribble Valley countryside to unveil every wonder you could imagine. The walk was created by the Clitheroe Ramblers after they reached their 50th anniversary.

The circular route to Whitewell travels via Bashall Eaves on to Newton, skirts Grindleton fell, traverses the famous Pendle Hill. It even includes over 4000 ft of ascent.

If you are looking for a great challenge to get stuck into or just generally enjoy walking long distances, then the full walk is possible in one day, however, it can be split up into smaller circular walks. You will have to devise these yourself, but it’s super simple, and could be even more rewarding.

When you’ve finished you will (as well as a big pat on the back!) get your very own Certificate of Completion form the Clitheroe Tourist Information Centre. You can get a route card from the Tourist Information Centre too, however, simply click here to download one right now.

3. RibbleHead Viaduct Walking Route

Ok, we may be cheating a bit here, as the viaduct isn’t technically in the Ribble Valley, (Yorkshire Dales!) however, its less than an hour from Clitheroe itself and is certainly worth the short journey.

This circular walk shows walkers one of Britain’s most famous viaducts. You may recognise it from one of the world’s most famous film (and book) franchises – Harry Potter. Fans around the world know it as the viaduct that the Hogwarts train crosses on its way from London to Hogwarts. The impressive viaduct carries the Settle-Carlisle Railway across Batty Moss in the valley of the River Ribble at Ribblehead.

You can start the walk from the car park just from the south of the viaduct, however, you can visit the viaduct by catching the train to Ribblehead railway station. See more information and the maps here.

For some more fantastic walking routes in The Ribble Valley and surrounding areas, here are a few more handy sources:

• Visit Ribble Valley
• Visit Lancashire – Walks under 5 miles
• Lancashire Life – 7 great walks in the Ribble Valley

Looking for a cosy retreat after a tiring walk? Holgates Ribble Valley would be the ideal accommodation spot for all these walks and more. In the very heart of the Ribble Valley, you would be perfectly positioned to go explore these routes and not be too far away from a hot shower, slippers, and feet up. Simply get in touch for more information on our range of holiday homes in the Ribble Valley.

For even more walks in the Ribble Valley, take a look at these family-friendly walking trails.