Pendle Hill walks and everything you need to know before you go
Updated: 4 days ago
Famous for its rugged beauty and mysterious history, Pendle Hill is a popular walk for those staying in nearby villages like Barley. But with so many ways up, which route should you choose?
Our guide covers two of the best Pendle Hill walking routes, so you know exactly which is right for you. We also share tips and recommendations about where to stay to help you get the most out of your trip.
Where is Pendle Hill and why is it famous?
The hill itself is 557 metres above sea level.From the top, you can see the Lake District hills, the Yorkshire Three Peaks, and even Blackpool Tower. On a clear day, you can spot the Snowdon mountain range from the summit.
The landscape is wild and rugged, and the area is steeped in history. In 1652, George Fox climbed to the summit and had a vision that led him to found the Religious Society of Friends, better known as the Quakers.
Pendle Hill is also closely associated with the Pendle Witch Trials (1612), where a group of local women were accused of witchcraft and tried at Lancaster. Ten out of the twelve women were found guilty and hanged for the supposed crime.
The best Pendle Hill walking routes for first-timers
There are several ways up Pendle Hill, but the best one depends on where you’re staying, how much time you have, and what you want to see.
Route 1: Pendle Hill Steps
The classic route from Barley is the stone-stepped path, known as Pendle Steps. It’s generally the best route for first-timers because it doesn’t take too long to reach the summit.
The walk starts from the car park in Barley, and you pass the Pendle Inn and The Barley Mow pub, before turning left along Pendle Way. It’s a fairly gentle climb initially, with well-signed paths.
Once you reach the steps, it gets steeper, before arriving at a wall at the top (and the weather shelter seats). This is where you see the George Fox plaque. Continue along the wide track away from the wall to reach the trig point at the summit.
After taking in the view, continue along the wide track to return to Barley. Enjoy views of the reservoirs down to your left, before heading left diagonally, down a steep, gravelled path.
This path takes you back to the bottom of the steps, where you can follow the route that brought you up. Afterwards, why not grab a bite to eat at The Barley Mow?
Route 2: Pendle Hill via Ogden Reservoirs and Boar Clough
Pendle Hill via Ogden Reservoirs and Boar Clough is a more scenic way up because you get stunning reservoir views, and venture across moors and woodland.
Like the above Pendle Hill walk route, this one begins at the pay and display car park. Head along the road past the village hall, before walking by the beautiful Lower Ogden Reservoir, with Fell Wood visible behind it.
From there, walk along the path to Upper Ogden Reservoir. If you go early, keep an eye out for deer! Past the reservoir, head up to Ogden Clough, to a point where the path splits.
You can go either way, but the simpler route is to head right, which is a short, steep climb up Boar Clough. Follow the path as the climb becomes more gentle, before meeting a wide track for the final couple of hundred metres.
When you’re ready to head down, retrace your steps along the wide track before descending Boar Clough. About 500 metres on, turn left diagonally and continue along the path down.
Walk across a field to arrive back just below Upper Ogden Reservoir. Retrace your steps back to Barley.
What to consider before walking Pendle Hill
Before walking up Pendle Hill, you need to plan where to park and what to wear. And, if you’re taking a four-legged friend, make sure the route is dog-friendly.
Where to park at Pendle Hill. For parking, the easiest option is the pay and display car park. You may be able to find Pendle Hill lay-by parking around the village, but it’s not guaranteed. If you visit on a weekend or around Halloween, the village gets busy!
What to wear when walking Pendle Hill. Both routes can be boggy, especially after heavy rain, so we recommend packing proper walking boots. It’ll be windy at the top, so be sure to pack layers and a waterproof jacket if.
How to walk Pendle Hill with a dog. Bringing a dog? Keep your four-legged friend on a lead as sheep graze the fields and farmland year round. If you’re visiting from further afield, you might also need a dog friendly hotel in Lancashire.
FAQs about Pendle Hill
How long does it take to walk up Pendle Hill?
It depends which route you use. If you head up the Pendle Steps from Barley, it takes roughly an hour to reach the summit, but it’ll be a bit longer if you go via Ogden Clough.
How high is Pendle Hill?
Pendle Hill is 557 metres (1,827 ft) above sea level.
Where to stay near Pendle Hill?
Barley is the closest village to Pendle Hill, but staying in nearby towns like Padiham and Nelson gives you more choice of places to eat and explore. Plus, you can still be at the hill within minutes.
Book your stay for walking Pendle Hill
The walk up Pendle Hill won’t eat up too much of your day, but you get stunning views across to the Lakes, Yorkshire, and even Wales. Besides the rugged landscape, the hill is iconic for its mysterious past, and it’s an excellent route for a furry companion.
The Lawrence in Padiham is a great base for walking Pendle Hill as it’s just a 10-minute drive away from the start of most routes. With just 15 beautiful rooms, you’re sure to have a peaceful stay.
All rooms are dog-friendly (£15 per night), so it’s the perfect option if you plan to bring a furry friend. You can take your dog down to breakfast and dinner with you too, where you can even order a doggy dinner for your pooch.
Although our restaurant offers a varied, seasonal menu, there are plenty of places to eat and drink nearby. And if you don't fancy a big walk, head to Memorial Park or Gawthorpe Hall for a short stroll or a game of fetch.
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