The country walk just outside of Manchester with stunning views and an intriguing history

If you’ve ever passed through the Lancashire countryside north of Greater Manchester then there’s one sight you’ll probably be familiar with. Pendle Hill rises up from the surrounding countryside, dominating the landscape.

Measuring 1,827ft above sea level at its summit, Pendle Hill can be seen from miles around. It’s situated in a detached part of the Forest of Bowland, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Around an hour’s drive from Manchester, Pendle Hill is a great place to visit for an invigorating country hike with spectacular views. On a clear day you can even see as far as Blackpool Tower from the summit, as well as the Yorkshire Three Peaks.

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What makes Pendle Hill particularly intriguing though is its history. The area is famous for the Pendle Witch Trials which took place in 1612, making it reputedly one of the most haunted spots in Britain.

The ghosts of 10 witches who were sentenced to death and buried under Pendle Hill are said to haunt the area and the surrounding villages. You can find references to the witches throughout the area and in the nearby village of Roughlee there’s a statue dedicated to Alice Nutter, who was accused of witchcraft and hanged in 1612.

There’s a five mile circular walk which takes you from the village of Barley to the hill’s summit and back again. It passes the Ogden Reservoirs and through grassy fields, then up onto the moorland.

When you reach the top you’ll find a triangulation point and you’ll be rewarded with incredible views, looking out for miles around. It's an ideal spot to stop for a picnic before descending back down to Barley.

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