The best walks and hikes around Goosnargh
4.4
(1431)
12,122
hikers
38
hikes
Hiking around Goosnargh offers diverse landscapes on the edge of the Ribble Valley and the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region features tranquil English countryside with green pastures, bubbling brooks, and hedgerows. Prominent natural features include Beacon Fell, providing woodlands, grasslands, and moorland, and Longridge Fell, known for its well-established footpaths and panoramic viewpoints. The terrain ranges from peaceful riverside paths along the River Brock to more challenging uphill climbs.
Best hiking trails around Goosnargh
- The most popular hiking route is The River Brock & Beacon Fell loop, a 5.9 miles (9.4 km) trail that takes 2 hours 36 minutes to complete. This moderate route features riverside paths, historic ruins, and panoramic views.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Beacon Fell Summit Trig Point – Beacon Fell loop from Beacon Fell, a moderate 4.6 miles (7.5 km) path. This trail offers views from the summit and traverses varied moorland terrain.
- Local hikers also love the Beacon Fell – Beacon Fell Descent loop from Beacon Fell, a 2.9 miles (4.6 km) trail leading through woodlands and open areas of Beacon Fell, often completed in about 1 hour 15 minutes.
- Hiking around Goosnargh is defined by tranquil English countryside, woodlands, and moorland, with routes offering panoramic views over the Ribble Valley. The network provides options for various ability levels, from easy strolls to more challenging ascents.
- The routes in Goosnargh are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 200 reviews. More than 3000 hikers have used komoot to explore Goosnargh's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
4.2
(33)
103
hikers
9.43km
02:37
170m
160m
Embark on The River Brock & Beacon Fell loop, a moderate hiking route that guides you through varied landscapes. You will cover 5.9 miles (9.4 km) with an elevation gain of 556 feet (170 metres), typically taking about 2 hours and 36 minutes to complete. Expect a journey that transitions from peaceful riverside paths to more open, elevated terrain, offering a diverse experience for your outdoor adventure.
When planning your visit, be aware that the trail can become quite muddy, especially after rain, so appropriate footwear is essential. You will also encounter several stiles and gates as the path crosses agricultural fields, adding to the rural charm of the hike. Parking is generally available at the trailhead, making it convenient to start your exploration of this scenic area.
This loop offers more than just a walk; it takes you past the historic ruins of an old cotton mill located at the Brock Bottom picnic area, a spot rich in local heritage. As you ascend Beacon Fell, the views expand dramatically across the surrounding plains and towards the impressive Bowland Fells. On a clear day from the summit, you might even catch a glimpse of the distant Great Orme in North Wales, providing a memorable reward for your efforts.
5.0
(7)
231
hikers
4.60km
01:15
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.6
(11)
239
hikers
7.48km
02:04
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(9)
26
hikers
12.4km
03:25
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(9)
21
hikers
7.95km
02:13
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Lovely site, can get very busy in the summer months. Beautiful walk along the river is you wish, and cool refreshing water to dip your toes in.
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Beacon Fell Country Park has a trig point at 266m. From here, poking out above the trees in the surrounding park you get amazing views across the Forest of Bowland and out to Morecombe Bay.
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Brock Bottom picnic area and nature reserve is a pretty site on the river Brock on the edge of the Forest of Bowland. There used to be a cotton mill here and several cottages for the workers. The mill was built in 1790 and eventually closed, by the 1930's the site was a ruin. You can still see some of the old buildings. The walking along the river path either up or down stream is enjoyable. Upstream can be combined with Beacon Fell for a 7.5mile ish loop.
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Chai tea is very good for you
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Also known as Beacon Fell Country Park, it has a visitors centre, a small and fairly unimpressive café and some circular walking routes. For the road cyclist it offers a variety of shortish climbs, choose from Carwags Lane, Crumbleholme Fold (the steepest) or North Nook Lane, or keep doing a loop and do them all. The circular road around Beacon Fell is one-way clockwise and some great views can be had especially on the west side of this road.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking around Goosnargh?
Goosnargh offers a diverse range of landscapes, from tranquil English countryside with green pastures and bubbling brooks to more rugged moorland. You'll find extensive woodlands, open grasslands, and hedgerows. Part of the area lies within the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, ensuring scenic beauty throughout your hike.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families in Goosnargh?
Yes, Goosnargh has a good selection of easy trails. Approximately 20 of the 40 routes in the area are classified as easy. An example is the Beacon Fell – Beacon Fell Descent loop from Beacon Fell, which is a 4.6 km trail leading through woodlands and open areas, typically completed in about 1 hour 15 minutes.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to look out for on Goosnargh hikes?
Hikers can explore several prominent natural features. Beacon Fell offers stunning woodland, grassland, and moorland with panoramic views from its summit. You can also find picturesque walking trails along the River Brock, and enjoy views from Longridge Fell. For specific viewpoints, consider visiting the Trig point at Longridge Fell summit or Nicky Nook Summit.
Are there any circular walking routes available in the Goosnargh area?
Yes, many of the trails around Goosnargh are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For instance, the Beacon Fell Summit Trig Point – Beacon Fell loop from Beacon Fell is a moderate 7.5 km circular path offering views from the summit.
What kind of views can I expect from the hiking trails in Goosnargh?
Many trails in Goosnargh offer excellent panoramic views. From Beacon Fell's summit, you can see the Bowland Fell and Parlick Fell. Longridge Fell provides expansive viewpoints over the Ribble Valley and even extends to the Fylde coast on clear days. The wider landscape also features gently undulating farmland views.
How many hiking trails are there in Goosnargh?
There are over 40 hiking routes available around Goosnargh, catering to various skill levels. These include 20 easy routes, 19 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route, ensuring options for everyone from casual walkers to experienced hikers.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Goosnargh?
The hiking trails in Goosnargh are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 200 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil English countryside, the varied terrain from riverside paths to moorland, and the panoramic views, especially from spots like Beacon Fell.
Are there any nature reserves or wildlife viewing opportunities near Goosnargh?
While a short distance away, the Brockholes Nature Reserve is a significant attraction run by the Lancashire Wildlife Trust. It offers diverse habitats, including wetlands and woodlands, where visitors can observe varied wildlife such as breeding wading birds, otters, and bitterns. You can find more information about it at Brockholes Nature Reserve.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes in the Goosnargh area?
Yes, for those seeking a longer challenge, there are moderate to difficult options. An example is the Beacon Fell – Beacon Fell Summit Trig Point loop from Beacon Fell, which is a 12.4 km moderate trail that takes approximately 3 hours 24 minutes to complete, offering more extensive exploration of the fell.
What kind of terrain should I expect on the trails around Goosnargh?
The terrain around Goosnargh is varied. You'll encounter peaceful riverside paths, especially along the River Brock, as well as more challenging uphill climbs. Moorland sections are common, which can be boggy after rain, so appropriate footwear is recommended. The landscape also features gently undulating farmland and well-established footpaths through woodlands.
Can I find historical sites or points of interest along the hiking routes?
Yes, some routes incorporate historical elements. For example, the The River Brock & Beacon Fell loop features historic ruins along its path. Additionally, the nearby Stonyhurst College, an inspiration for J.R.R. Tolkien, is a notable historical site in the wider region.
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