4.6
(1497)
12,947
hikers
14
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Briercliffe offer a diverse landscape for outdoor exploration. The region is characterized by elevated hills, picturesque waterways, and open moorland, providing varied terrain for hikers. Numerous reservoirs, including Hurstwood Reservoir and Walverden Reservoir, are integrated into the trail network, offering scenic lakeside paths. Hikers can explore woodlands and areas with millstone grit outcrops, creating a rich environment for outdoor activities.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.5
(2)
3
hikers
18.3km
05:27
540m
540m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
7
hikers
15.3km
04:16
290m
290m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.3
(3)
9
hikers
6.97km
02:19
320m
320m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
4
hikers
3.38km
00:56
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Briercliffe
The climb can be hard work up to Lad Law but there are good view to be had on a clear day.
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Boulsworth Hill is the highest point in the South Pennines and the only summit in the area that rises above 500m above sea level. It is also one of only two Marilyns in the South Pennines.
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Wycoller Country Park is a mixture of woodland and farmland and has many footpaths leading to local beauty spots which include Bank House and Wycoller Beck.
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Wycoller (from the Anglo Saxon Wic-Alr, meaning dairy farm among the alder trees) is a delightful Lancashire village, approximately 4 miles east of Colne, and is slowly being brought back to life after virtual abandonment.
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Pack-horse bridge is a two-arched structure spanning Wycoller beck. It is sometimes called Sally’s Bridge after one of the Cunliffe family who lived in the hall opposite the bridge in the 18th century.
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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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Catlow Bottoms is a popular picnic spot for the people of Nelson and there are some pleasant trails too. It's a peaceful place to visit, with wildlife spotting opportunities. Stepping stones provide a brook crossing for those on foot, while the road fords the stream. At this point, Catlow Brook provides the boundary between the districts of Burnley and Pendle.
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This section, along the lower flanks of Boulsworth Hill, provides a splendid view towards the iconic Pendle Hill. A Pennine outlier, Pendle Hill's beauty and bewitching history make it a popular objective. From this spot, it's a short but relatively strenuous hike up to Boulsworth Hill's Lad Law summit. The views are extensive from the top, with Lakeland giants Scafell Pike and Helvellyn, and even Blackpool's Big One roller coaster, visible on a clear day.
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Briercliffe offers a great selection of family-friendly hikes, with over 15 routes specifically curated for families. These range from easy strolls to more moderate adventures, ensuring there's something for every age and ability.
Yes, Briercliffe has several easy circular routes perfect for families. For a gentle and scenic option, consider the View from Marsden Heights – Walverden Reservoir loop from Queen Street Mill. This easy 6.1 km trail offers lovely views and manageable paths.
Briercliffe's family-friendly trails showcase a diverse landscape. You'll encounter picturesque waterways and reservoirs like Hurstwood and Walverden, open moorland, and charming woodlands. The region is also known for its elevated peaks, offering panoramic views across the South Pennines.
Absolutely! Many routes offer glimpses of local points of interest. For example, you might encounter the impressive Brontë Bridge and Brontë Waterfall, or the unique The Singing Ringing Tree. Some trails also lead to prominent local peaks like Lad Law (Boulsworth Hill) Summit, providing expansive vistas.
The komoot community highly rates the trails in Briercliffe, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1300 ratings. Hikers often praise the accessibility of the paths, the varied terrain, and the stunning views, making it a popular choice for family outings.
For families looking for a bit more of a challenge, the Lad Law Trig Point – Abbot Stone loop from Briercliffe is a great moderate option. This 7 km trail takes you up to a prominent local peak, offering rewarding views for active families.
Yes, several family-friendly routes incorporate the region's beautiful reservoirs. The Haggate Drinking Fountain – Walverden Reservoir loop from Queen Street Mill is a moderate 8.2 km hike that offers lovely lakeside paths and scenic views of Walverden Reservoir.
Briercliffe's trails are enjoyable year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer offers longer daylight hours and warmer weather, while autumn provides stunning foliage. Even in winter, with appropriate gear, the landscapes can be beautifully serene. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
For families seeking a longer adventure, the Wycoller Country Park – Single Slab Clapper Bridge loop from Briercliffe is a moderate 15.3 km route. It offers varied terrain and explores the scenic Wycoller Country Park, suitable for families with good stamina.
Yes, the trails in Briercliffe are generally well-regarded for their accessibility and suitability for different abilities, with many routes featuring easily-accessible and well-maintained paths. This makes them ideal for family outings.
Many trails in Briercliffe offer fantastic viewpoints. Lad Law, for instance, provides panoramic views across the South Pennines. You can also find great vistas from Weets Hill Summit & Trig Point, which is accessible via some of the longer routes in the area.


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