Walking in the Ribble Valley

Ribble Valley is a paradise for walkers of all abilities. From a short stroll by the river to a strenuous walk across the Bowland Fells - you can have it all.

The Forest of Bowland

The Forest of Bowland forms part of Ribble Valley and is the eleventh largest of the forty-one designated 'Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty' in England and Wales. It is the first protected area in England to be awarded the 'European Charter for Sustainable Tourism in Protected Areas' making it a spectacular area for outdoor activities.

New countryside access rights have opened up opportunities for visitors to walk across areas of mapped, open and uncultivated countryside offering plenty of scope for a different and challenging walk. 

The Ribble Way

Ribble Valley is ideal for walking the 'Ribble Way' (way marked) 70 miles (113km) long follows the course of the River Ribble from its source at Ribblehead to the estuary at Preston; passing through a variety of landscapes including limestone gorge, open moorland and tidal marsh. New for 2006 - Visit Edisford Picnic Site in Clitheroe and you'll see the beautifully commissioned plinth and plaque, which depicts the River Ribble from source to sea.

Longridge

Longridge 'Heritage Trails' are two short walks around this thriving small town on the edge of the Forest of Bowland. Trail 1 Quarrying & Textiles is approx. 1.5 miles - about 1.5 hours and Trail 2 Religion & Commerce is approx. 2 miles - about 2 hours (a full colour, detailed brochure, is available from Clitheroe Tourist Information Centre and various outlets in Longridge).

Circular Walks in Ribble Valley

Ribble Valley is steeped in history and many generations have left their mark on its landscape. Discover each one for yourself during any one of our spectacular walks.

Why not begin with the pack of 5 short circular walks of between 2.5 and 5.5 miles based on Clitheroe and the villages of Bolton-by-Bowland, Slaidburn, Dunsop Bridge and Bashall Eaves. Each walk takes in the many attractions and interesting features of the landscape and local surroundings.

These packs were designed to accompany the longest and very popular circular walk 'Journey Through the Centre of the Kingdom'. A 46 mile (75km) walk that takes you through many of the historic sites in the district to the village of Dunsop Bridge, which has been determined by the Ordnance Survey as the nearest point to the centre of the British Isles.

'Journey through the Centre of the Kingdom' starts at the Norman Castle which dominates the historic market town of Clitheroe, your journey will take you to a ruined Cistercian abbey, a number of beautiful late medieval churches, and the homes of two 'traitors' - one who betrayed his king during the Wars of the Roses, and another who was executed for his rebellion against religious changes.

The dramatic history is accompanied by equally dramatic scenery in this beautiful part of Lancashire. An interactive CD cost £14.99, about this walk is available from Clitheroe Tourist Information Centre.

The route is divided into 8 sections, with accommodation available at the start and finish of each section. Details of the accommodation is available on our Accommodation web page, advance bookings can be made direct or through the Tourist Information Centre.

Gisburn Forest

This is the largest forest in Lancashire with a network of forest walks and a cycle trails of 10 miles (16km). Walking is a great way to explore the forest and the best way to spot wildlife. There are 3 way-marked walks for an easy introduction to the forest and for the more adventurous, a detailed map may be needed to negotiate the numerous other tracks and paths that wind through the forest.

Ghostly Guided Walks

For intriguing walks there are 'Simon's Clitheroe and Whalley Ghost Walks'. Simon Entwistle dressed in authentic Victorian costume will be delighted to accompany you on the 1.25 hour guided walk exploring haunted ginnels, cobbled streets and burial grounds.

Complete with resident ghosts and sound effects, Simon tells the history of these fascinating towns. The walks have proved very popular with families and have been featured on TV and radio.

The Clitheroe walks take place from spring through to mid November. Whalley Ghost walks need to be prebooked. Private bookings for both walks can be taken all year round. For times and prices please contact Clitheroe Tourist Information Centre.

For further information about the listed walks, guide books, ordnance survey maps and outdoor pursuits please contact:

Clitheroe Tourist Information Centre,
12-14 Market Place,
Clitheroe.
Lancs
BB7 2DA

Telephone 01200 425566
email: tourism@ribblevalley.gov.uk

Open: Mon-Sat 9am - 5pm
Bank Holiday Mondays 10am - 4pm

Curlew Guided Walking offers short walking breaks across the dramatic heather moors of the ancient Forest of Bowland. 

Curlew Guided Walking                                                                          26 De Vitre Cottages                                                                       Ashton Road                                                                                    Lancaster                                                                                                  LA1 5AN                                                                                                  Tel: 01524 35601 (UK) Tel: +44 1524 35601 (outside UK)                                                                                                            E-mail: info@curlewguidedwalking.co.uk