Rossendale Way
Discover the picturesque Rossendale Valley, a haven for walkers with stunning hills, reservoirs, and charming towns.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Crisp air, fewer crowds
Rossendale Way
Best Time
Crisp air, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the picturesque Rossendale Valley, a haven for walkers with stunning hills, reservoirs, and charming towns.
"Underrated spots in the North of England with picturesque landscapes and great walking. "
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The terrain can be varied, so good walking boots are essential for enjoying the Rossendale Way.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Mobile signal can be patchy in remote areas; ensure you have your route downloaded.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rossendale Valley Vistas
Various viewpoints
Experience breathtaking countryside and green valleys, a true escape for nature lovers.
Reservoir Serenity
Numerous reservoirs
Discover picturesque reservoirs dotted throughout the landscape, adding a unique charm to your walk.
Rawtenstall Charm
Rawtenstall town
Explore this historic town, a great starting point for walks and offering local amenities like unique eateries.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Hills
Plan Your Route
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The terrain can be varied, so good walking boots are essential for enjoying the Rossendale Way.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Mobile signal can be patchy in remote areas; ensure you have your route downloaded.
🎒 Pack for All Weathers
Lancashire weather is unpredictable. Bring layers, waterproofs, and sun protection.
📸 Capture the Views
The Rossendale Valley offers stunning photo opportunities, especially at sunset.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The terrain can be varied, so good walking boots are essential for enjoying the Rossendale Way.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Mobile signal can be patchy in remote areas; ensure you have your route downloaded.
🎒 Pack for All Weathers
Lancashire weather is unpredictable. Bring layers, waterproofs, and sun protection.
📸 Capture the Views
The Rossendale Valley offers stunning photo opportunities, especially at sunset.
🍕 Refuel in Rawtenstall
Discover local gems like 'Pizza Man's Pizzeria' for a post-walk treat.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Rossendale Way for its beautiful, often underrated, countryside and the sense of remoteness it offers. The varied terrain provides a good challenge for walkers, with stunning reservoir views being a frequent highlight. Some find the signage could be improved in certain areas, and weather preparedness is essential.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Rossendale Way is accessible from various points. Rawtenstall, with its bus station, is a common starting point. You can reach Rawtenstall by bus from nearby towns like Bury and Burnley. Driving is also an option, with parking available in towns like Rawtenstall and Bacup.
Yes, Rawtenstall Bus Station serves as a hub for accessing walks in the area. Local bus services can connect you to different parts of the Rossendale Valley.
While primarily a walking route, some sections might be suitable for mountain biking, offering scenic rides through the valley.
Parking is available in towns like Rawtenstall and Bacup, which serve as good starting or ending points for your walk.
The full Rossendale Way is a significant undertaking. However, many shorter, well-marked sections are perfect for beginners and day walkers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Rossendale Way is a public footpath and is free to access. There are no entry fees.
Occasionally, local groups organize events like the 'Rossendale Round the Hills Walk' which has specific start and end points. Keep an eye on local event listings.
As an outdoor walking route, the Rossendale Way is accessible 24/7. However, it's best to walk during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
While not explicitly mentioned in the provided content, it's highly recommended to use Ordnance Survey maps or reliable online mapping tools for detailed route planning.
No permits are required for general walking on the Rossendale Way. It's open to all walkers.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The terrain varies from well-trodden paths to more rugged moorland and hills. Expect some ascents and descents, making sturdy footwear essential.
Facilities are generally found in the towns and villages like Rawtenstall. It's advisable to carry your own water and snacks, especially for longer walks.
Signage can vary. While some sections are clearly marked, it's always best to have a map or GPS device to navigate confidently.
You might encounter various bird species, particularly around the reservoirs, and enjoy the diverse flora of the Lancashire countryside.
The full Rossendale Way is a long-distance trail and not typically completed in a single day. However, many shorter circular walks or sections can be enjoyed within a day.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Rawtenstall offers several dining options, including 'Pizza Man's Pizzeria' located conveniently in the bus station, perfect for a takeaway or sit-down meal.
While not directly on all trails, you'll find pubs and cafes in the towns and villages bordering the Rossendale Way, such as Rawtenstall.
Absolutely! The scenic beauty of the Rossendale Valley makes it an ideal spot for a picnic. Remember to take all your litter with you.
Rossendale has a history of textile industries, but today you can enjoy traditional British pub fare and diverse international cuisines in its towns.
Yes, the towns within the Rossendale Valley, like Rawtenstall, have pubs where you can relax and enjoy a drink after your walk.
📸 📸 Photography
The rolling hills, reservoirs, and expansive valleys offer stunning photographic opportunities. Sunsets over Rossendale are particularly beautiful.
Early mornings and late afternoons, especially during golden hour, provide the best light for capturing the landscape's beauty.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions.
The reservoirs offer reflective surfaces and dramatic backdrops. The rolling hills themselves provide panoramic views that are highly photogenic.
Always check local regulations regarding drone usage in public spaces and national parks before flying. Respect private property and wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Towns like Rawtenstall provide amenities and places to refuel, making it easy to manage a day out. Look for local events or shorter circular walks that offer variety without being too strenuous. The open spaces are perfect for kids to explore and burn off energy in a beautiful natural setting.
🚶 Solo Hikers & Ramblers
Rawtenstall provides a good starting point with access to amenities. The varied terrain means you can choose walks that match your fitness level, from gentle valley strolls to more challenging hill climbs. Enjoy the peace and the stunning views at your own pace.
📸 Nature Photographers
Aim for the golden hours – early morning and late afternoon – for the most dramatic light. Wide-angle lenses are excellent for capturing the sweeping vistas, while telephoto lenses can be useful for spotting and photographing local wildlife. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions and to capture the serene beauty of the reservoirs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Rossendale Valley
Many visitors are drawn to the Rossendale Way, a network of walking routes that traverse the valley's diverse landscapes. Whether you're looking for a challenging hike or a gentle stroll, there's a path for everyone. The 'Rossendale Round' is a popular, albeit demanding, circular walk that showcases the best of the area's natural features.
Beyond the trails, towns like Rawtenstall offer a glimpse into local life, with independent shops, cafes, and eateries. It's a great place to start or end your adventure, providing amenities and a taste of the local community.
Walking the Rossendale Way
Popular starting points include Marl Pits Leisure Centre in Rawtenstall, which hosts organized walks like the annual 'Rossendale Round the Hills Walk'. This event offers choices of 18 or 14-mile routes, catering to different fitness levels. Reservoirs are a common and beautiful feature along many routes, providing scenic spots for rest and reflection.
When planning your walk, it's crucial to check local maps and consider downloading offline navigation as mobile signal can be unreliable in more remote areas. Be prepared for changeable weather; layers and waterproofs are advisable even in summer.
Discovering Rawtenstall
The town itself offers a pleasant atmosphere with a variety of shops and eateries. For a taste of local flavor, 'Pizza Man's Pizzeria' in the bus station is a popular choice for both takeaway and dining in, known for using imported Italian ingredients.
Rawtenstall is also historically significant, being part of a region that was once a powerhouse of the textile industry. Today, it blends its heritage with a modern appeal, making it a welcoming base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty of the Rossendale Valley.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit