The best walks and hikes around Nelson
4.6
(1090)
11,321
hikers
26
hikes
Hiking around Nelson features a landscape characterized by waterways, reservoirs, and rolling hills. The area offers trails that traverse canal towpaths, pass through rural villages, and ascend to viewpoints over the surrounding countryside. These routes provide opportunities to explore both natural and historical features of the region.
Best hiking trails around Nelson
- The most popular hiking route is Barrowford Locks – Canal Locks Near Burnley loop from Nelson, a 3.8 miles (6.1 km) trail that takes 1 hour 35…
Last updated: April 27, 2026
5.0
(1)
31
hikers
6.06km
01:36
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
22
hikers
20.0km
05:31
330m
330m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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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.
5.0
(1)
15
hikers
10.6km
02:47
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Nelson
Tips from the Community
On the narrow grass verge between the road and the footpath in the village of Roughlee stands a memorial to Alice Nutter. Approaching cyclists from a distance might immediately think, "What a lovely statue." But anyone who stops to take a closer look will surely notice the woman's hands bound with a heavy iron chain, as well as the sad expression on her face. Alice Nutter was born around 1560 and, along with several other women, was convicted of witchcraft and executed in 1612.
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She patiently waits here, on the narrow grassy strip between the road and the footpath in the village of Roughlee. From a distance, the slowly approaching hiker might spontaneously think, "What a lovely monument." But up close, the attentive observer will not fail to notice the hands bound with a heavy iron chain, nor the sad expression on this woman's face. Her name is Alice Nutter. She was born around 1560 and in 1612—along with several other women—was convicted of witchcraft and executed.
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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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Excellent food. Not open too late though so get there early to avoid disappointment
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Nelson?
There are nearly 30 hiking routes around Nelson, offering a variety of experiences. These include 13 easy routes, 10 moderate, and 5 more challenging trails, ensuring options for all fitness levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes in Nelson?
Hiking around Nelson is characterized by canal towpaths, tranquil reservoirs, and rolling hills. You'll find routes that follow waterways, pass through rural villages, and ascend to viewpoints over the surrounding countryside, often featuring historic bridges and locks.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks in Nelson?
Yes, Nelson offers several easy routes suitable for families. A great option is the Barrowford Locks – Canal Locks Near Burnley loop from Nelson, which is 3.8 miles (6.1 km) and follows canal towpaths, passing historic locks. Another easy choice is the Walverden Reservoir – View from Marsden Heights loop from Nelson, offering pleasant views.
What are some notable landmarks or points of interest to see while hiking in Nelson?
Hikers can explore several interesting landmarks. You might encounter the iconic Pendle Hill summit trig point, or the unique The Singing Ringing Tree. Other points of interest include the Whirlaw Stones Trig Point and historic structures like the Higherford Packhorse Bridge.
Are there any circular hiking routes in the Nelson area?
Many of Nelson's trails are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Barrowford Locks – Canal Locks Near Burnley loop from Nelson and the View of Pendle Water – Higherford Packhorse Bridge loop from Nelson, which takes you through water features and over historic bridges.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Nelson?
The routes in Nelson are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 300 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, well-maintained paths, and the scenic beauty of the canal towpaths and rolling hills.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced walkers in Nelson?
Yes, for those seeking a more strenuous experience, the The Cabin Café – Alice Nutter Statue loop from Nelson is a difficult 12.5 miles (20.0 km) path offering varied terrain and a significant elevation gain, typically completed in about 5 hours 31 minutes.
Can I find routes that feature reservoirs or water bodies?
Absolutely. Many trails in Nelson incorporate water features. For instance, the Walverden Reservoir – View from Marsden Heights loop from Nelson offers views of a reservoir, and the View of Pendle Water – Higherford Packhorse Bridge loop from Nelson leads through areas with water features.
Are there any routes that pass by historic sites or structures?
Yes, Nelson's hiking trails often weave through areas rich in history. The Barrowford Locks – Canal Locks Near Burnley loop from Nelson is a prime example, following canal towpaths and passing historic locks. The View of Pendle Water – Higherford Packhorse Bridge loop from Nelson also crosses historic bridges.
What is the typical duration for a moderate hike in Nelson?
Moderate hikes in Nelson vary in length and duration. For example, the View of Pendle Water – Higherford Packhorse Bridge loop from Nelson, which is 5.7 miles (9.2 km), typically takes around 2 hours 31 minutes to complete. Another moderate option, the Foulridge Wharf and Café – Barrowford Locks loop from Nelson, is 10.6 km and takes about 2 hours 47 minutes.
Are there any trails that offer good viewpoints over the surrounding area?
Yes, several trails provide excellent panoramic views. The Walverden Reservoir – View from Marsden Heights loop from Nelson is a good option for scenic vistas. Additionally, many routes that ascend the rolling hills will offer rewarding outlooks over the countryside.
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