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Pendle Hill

557m Elevation
395m Prominence
England Country
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Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Thieveley Pike, The Singing Ringing Tree loop from Holme Chapel

9.5 km ~3h Moderate

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Skipton to Gargrave Canal Walk

16.5 km ~4h 45m Moderate

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Hardcastle Crags Estate Track to Gibson Mill

3.7 km ~1h 20m Easy

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Malham Landscape Trail: Janet's Foss, Gordale Scar, and Malham Cove

8.1 km ~2h 30m Moderate

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Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Pendle Hill via Barley Circular

This classic route begins in the village of Barley and takes walkers along a well-maintained path through Barley Green and up the steep ascent of Pendle Hill. After enjoying the panoramic views from the summit, the descent follows the eastern side of the hill back to Barley. This circular route is the most popular and offers a good mix of scenery and challenge.

8 km ~3 hours Moderate

Pendle Hill from Downham

Starting in the picturesque village of Downham, this route follows tracks and paths through farmland before ascending Pendle Hill from the northwest. The approach offers a quieter, more rural experience, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside from the summit. The return leg takes a similar route back to Downham.

9 km ~3.5 hours Moderate

Pendle Hill via Ogden Clough

Beginning in Barley, this route heads out past Upper and Lower Ogden Reservoirs before climbing gradually through Ogden Clough. The ascent offers a more gradual climb compared to the Barley Circular route, making it suitable for those who prefer a steadier approach. After reaching the summit, the route loops back to Barley.

10 km ~4 hours Moderate

Pendle Hill via Sabden Fold

This less frequented route begins in Sabden Fold and approaches Pendle Hill from the south. The path meanders through open fields and moorland, offering a quieter, more solitary experience. After reaching the summit, walkers can retrace their steps or take an alternative descent to explore more of the area.

8.5 km ~3.5 hours Moderate

Pendle Hill Challenge Walk

A longer, more demanding route for experienced walkers, this challenge walk starts in Barley and incorporates several of the surrounding villages, reservoirs, and moorland before ascending Pendle Hill. It provides a comprehensive exploration of the area and is ideal for those seeking a full-day adventure.

18 km ~7 hours Challenging
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Dodd Dewey

Elevation

557m

1,827 ft

Prominence

395m

Coordinates

53.8686, -2.2986

SD804414

OS Map

103

Explorer: OL21N OL41E

At the Summit

The summit boasts a prominent trig point, a large stone cairn, and expansive views that might just leave you breathless (and not just from the climb!).

Terrain & Geology

A mix of rocky paths and grassy slopes with some boggy areas that can catch you off guard if you're not paying attention.

Pendle Hill is primarily composed of gritstone, which provides a rocky and resilient terrain. Its geological formations date back to the Carboniferous period, making it a fascinating case of ancient Earth's history.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can see the Yorkshire Dales, Manchester, and on clear days, even as far as the Lake District.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

Pendle is thought to derive from the Old English 'pen' meaning hill and 'dela' meaning hill slope.

Historical Significance

Pendle Hill is steeped in history, known for the infamous Pendle witch trials of 1612, making it a hotspot for both history buffs and Halloween enthusiasts!

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a parking area in the village of Barley, located close to the start of the Pendle Hill Circular Walk.

Public Transport

Barley is accessible by bus from nearby towns such as Nelson and Burnley, during peak hours.

Nearby Facilities

In Barley, you'll find a café for a well-deserved cuppa and toilets available in the village.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Uneven and rocky paths can lead to slips and trips; watch your step. Weather can change quickly, so be prepared!

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Pendle Hill?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Pendle Hill through the maps

Are there other walkers around Pendle Hill?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Pendle Hill search or of course create your own walk for Pendle Hill

Can I organise a walk to Pendle Hill?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Pendle Hill.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Pendle Hill?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Pendle Hill here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: SD804414

View on OpenStreetMap

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