The best walks and hikes around West Lancashire

There are over 230 hiking routes to explore around West Lancashire, ranging from easy strolls along canal towpaths to more challenging countryside treks. This variety ensures there's a trail for every fitness level.

The trails in West Lancashire are highly regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the peaceful walks along the Leeds & Liverpool Canal and the beautiful scenery found in the region's woodlands and wetlands. The mix of flat paths and gentle hills provides a satisfying variety.

Yes, West Lancashire has many options for family outings. A great choice is the Tomato Soup at the Café loop from Burscough Bridge. It's a very gentle and short walk, perfect for little legs, and conveniently starts and ends near a local café.

For a scenic walk with waterfalls, head to Fairy Glen. This serene woodland area features a stream with picturesque cascades. You can explore it on the Fairy Glen Waterfalls – Parbold Hill Viewpoint loop from Appley Bridge, which combines the glen with rewarding views.

For those seeking a longer challenge, the Parbold Hill Viewpoint – Ashurst Beacon loop from Parbold offers a substantial 10.7-mile (17.2 km) trek. This route involves more elevation than most in the area, rewarding you with panoramic views from two prominent viewpoints.

Most countryside and canal-side paths in West Lancashire are suitable for walking with a dog. The wide, flat towpaths are particularly good. However, always be mindful of wildlife, especially in nature reserves like Mere Sands Wood and near farmland, and keep your dog on a lead where required.

Many trails are easily reached by train. The routes starting in Parbold, Appley Bridge, and Burscough are ideal, as all three have train stations. For example, you can start the Hiking loop from Burscough Bridge right from the station for a pleasant countryside walk.

For some of the best panoramic views, head up Parbold Hill. On a clear day, you can see across the coastal plain to the Mersey Estuary and even the Welsh hills. The Fairy Glen Waterfalls – Parbold Hill Viewpoint loop from Parbold is a popular route that includes this rewarding ascent.

Yes, you can combine a walk with a visit to Rufford Old Hall, a magnificent Tudor building. The Leeds and Liverpool Canal – Rufford Old Hall loop from Mere Brow is a 5-mile (8.1 km) trail that takes you through open countryside and past this historic National Trust property.

The terrain is generally flat and gentle, especially along the Leeds & Liverpool Canal towpaths. You'll also find rolling countryside paths and some moderate inclines on routes that ascend hills like Parbold Hill. Many trails, such as those through Fairy Glen or Mere Sands Wood, feature well-maintained woodland paths.

For wildlife enthusiasts, the Leeds & Liverpool Canal & Martin Mere Wetland Centre loop from Burscough is an excellent choice. This 9.4-mile (15.1 km) route passes by the Martin Mere Wetland Centre, a haven for birds and other wildlife. You can easily combine the walk with a visit to the reserve.

Most of the popular trails in West Lancashire are well-defined and easy to follow, particularly the canal towpaths. For more complex routes through fields and woodlands, using a GPS device or the komoot app for turn-by-turn navigation is always recommended to ensure you stay on track.