If you’re looking for autumn walks in Lancashire, you’ll find plenty of beautiful countryside to explore as the seasons change. From peaceful woodland trails and scenic reservoirs to rolling hills and riverside paths, Lancashire offers a wonderful variety of walking routes for getting outdoors and enjoying the crisp autumn air.
Whether you fancy a gentle weekend stroll, a longer countryside adventure or somewhere to enjoy the changing colours of the trees, there are plenty of places worth discovering. Here are some of the best autumn walks in Lancashire to add to your seasonal plans.
1. Explore the Woodland Trails at Beacon Fell
For a lovely autumn walk with rewarding views, head to Beacon Fell Country Park, north of Preston. Situated on the edge of the Forest of Bowland, this attractive country park covers woodland, grassland and open moorland, making it a great place to enjoy the changing seasons.
There are several waymarked trails to choose from, allowing you to enjoy anything from a shorter woodland wander to a longer walk around the fell. As autumn arrives, the trees bring beautiful seasonal colours, while the higher viewpoints offer impressive views across the Lancashire Plain and towards the Bowland Fells.
It’s a particularly good option if you want a countryside walk without committing to a challenging hill climb. There is also a visitor centre, café, toilets and picnic areas, making it convenient for a relaxed day out.
Find route information on the Lancashire County Council Beacon Fell page.
2. Enjoy the Scenery Around Stocks Reservoir
If you enjoy walking somewhere with plenty of open space and beautiful views, Stocks Reservoir in the Forest of Bowland is well worth visiting.
The Stocks Circular is an eight-mile route that takes you around the reservoir, offering a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the surrounding countryside. With woodland, open water and views towards the Bowland landscape, it’s particularly attractive during autumn.
The walk is graded moderate, so it’s best suited to those comfortable with a longer countryside route. You’ll want suitable walking boots, particularly after rainfall, as some sections can become muddy.
Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way, too. The reservoir and surrounding woodland provide habitats for a variety of birds and other wildlife, making this a lovely destination for nature enthusiasts.
You can find route details and practical information through Forestry England’s Stocks Circular guide.
3. Discover the Woodland at Gisburn Forest
For a walk surrounded by trees, Gisburn Forest offers a wonderful change of scenery. Located within the Forest of Bowland, this extensive woodland is a peaceful place to spend an autumn afternoon.
There are several walking trails to explore, including the Birch Hills Walk, which is a shorter route through mixed woodland with views towards Stocks Reservoir. Wildlife hides along the route provide opportunities to stop and look out for birds.
For those wanting something more challenging, the Dale Head Ramble offers a longer walk through the forest, with a steady climb and attractive views across the surrounding landscape.
Autumn is a particularly rewarding time to visit, when the woodland takes on warmer colours and the paths feel quieter than during the busier summer months.
Gisburn Forest is also a good choice if you want to combine walking with a longer countryside day out. Check the Forestry England walking trails before visiting to choose a suitable route.
4. Take a Countryside Walk Around Pendle Hill
Few Lancashire landscapes are as recognisable as Pendle Hill. Rising above the surrounding villages, this famous landmark offers some fantastic walking opportunities and spectacular views across the countryside.
One popular starting point is the village of Barley, where you can follow routes towards the hill and enjoy the surrounding scenery. The climb to the summit is rewarding, with panoramic views across Lancashire and beyond on a clear day.
Autumn can be a lovely time to explore this area, with cooler temperatures making walking more comfortable than during the height of summer. The surrounding villages and rolling countryside also provide plenty of opportunities for shorter walks if you don’t fancy tackling the full ascent.
Pendle Hill is exposed in places, so check the weather forecast before setting off and take suitable clothing and footwear. Conditions can change quickly on higher ground.
For route inspiration, explore the Visit Ribble Valley walking guide.
5. Follow the Riverside Paths Around Dunsop Bridge
For something a little gentler, the countryside around Dunsop Bridge offers some beautiful walking opportunities within the Forest of Bowland.
This picturesque village is surrounded by rolling hills, farmland and the River Dunsop, creating a peaceful setting for an autumn countryside escape.
One option is the River Dunsop and Black Brook Circular, which follows woodland edges before heading out across farmland above the village. The route offers lovely views across the valley and surrounding hills, particularly on a clear autumn day.
If you prefer a longer walk, the route from Dunsop Bridge to Whitewell follows the River Hodder through the valley, with beautiful views of the surrounding fells. You can finish near the Inn at Whitewell, making it a good opportunity to stop for refreshments after your walk.
Some sections can become muddy following rain, and you may encounter livestock along the way, so appropriate footwear and responsible dog walking are important.
6. Enjoy a Peaceful Walk at Mere Sands Wood
If woodland and wildlife are more your thing, Mere Sands Wood Nature Reserve near Rufford is a lovely place to explore.
Managed by Lancashire Wildlife Trust, the reserve features woodland, lakes, ponds and wetland habitats, with a network of paths and viewing areas to discover.
Autumn is a particularly interesting season for wildlife watching. As the weather cools, seasonal birdlife becomes an important part of the reserve’s appeal, while the surrounding trees and woodland provide an attractive backdrop for a leisurely walk.
There are bird hides where you can stop and observe wildlife without disturbing it, making this a good destination for photography and nature enthusiasts.
The reserve also has visitor facilities, including a visitor centre and refreshments, so you can make a relaxed morning or afternoon of your visit.
Find out more through the Lancashire Wildlife Trust website.
7. Discover the Trails at Yarrow Valley Country Park
For a scenic autumn walk in central Lancashire, Yarrow Valley Country Park near Chorley is another excellent option.
The park follows the River Yarrow and offers a mixture of woodland, open green spaces, riverside scenery and peaceful walking paths. It’s a lovely place to enjoy a slower-paced day outdoors, particularly when the trees begin to change colour.
There are different routes to explore, so you can choose a shorter walk or spend longer discovering the park. The riverside setting makes it especially attractive for photography, while the woodland provides a welcome escape from busy roads and town centres.
It’s also a good option for families and dog walkers, with facilities near the main entrance at Birkacre, including a visitor hub and café.
If you’re looking for somewhere to enjoy a relaxed autumn stroll without travelling deep into the countryside, Yarrow Valley is well worth considering.
8. Make Time for the Ribble Valley Countryside
The Ribble Valley is one of Lancashire’s most rewarding areas for countryside walking. Its combination of rolling farmland, pretty villages, woodland and river valleys makes it an ideal destination for exploring during autumn.
There are plenty of routes to choose from around places such as Chipping, Whitewell, Slaidburn and Bolton-by-Bowland. Some walks follow quiet country lanes and riverside paths, while others climb into the surrounding hills for more impressive views.
If you enjoy combining a walk with a good meal, look out for the Ribble Valley’s Walks with Taste routes. These self-guided walks are designed around local pubs and places to eat, allowing you to enjoy the countryside before returning for a well-earned lunch or drink.
It’s a lovely way to make a full day of your autumn walk while discovering some of Lancashire’s smaller villages and independent hospitality businesses.
Explore the Visit Ribble Valley walking routes for further inspiration.
Tips for Enjoying Autumn Walks in Lancashire
Autumn is a wonderful season for exploring Lancashire on foot, but a little preparation will help you make the most of your visit.
Wear sturdy walking boots or shoes with good grip, particularly if you’re heading into woodland or across farmland. Paths can become muddy after rainfall, while higher routes may be exposed to wind and changing weather.
It’s also worth checking your chosen route before setting off, taking a map or suitable navigation device and allowing enough time to finish before sunset. If you’re walking with a dog, be mindful of livestock and follow local guidance on leads and access.
For longer countryside walks, pack water, snacks and an extra layer so you’re prepared for cooler conditions.
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