Winter makes the perfect backdrop for a stunning walk in nature, as the greenery reaches a peaceful stillness, sometimes coated in a white blanket of snow.
Whether you prefer to ‘lose yourself’ in the woodlands, a relaxing stroll by the river or a picnic with stunning views, we are spoilt with choice in Lancashire.
Here are 15 gorgeous winter walks to enjoy in Lancashire, including Yarrow Valley Country Park:
7. Cuerden Valley Park, Bamber Bridge
This 650 acre country park is a great place for a family walk with the dog. Several parking options, as well as a cafe and The Roost pizza and bar area. There are many walking options for different abilities - through woodland, into walled gardens, or next to the River Lostock. Photo: UGC
8. The Tolkien Trail, Ribble Valley
The Tolkien Trail follows in the footsteps of author JR Tolkein, who regularly stayed at Stonyhurst College. This five and a half mile circular walk, starting and finishing at Hurst Green in the Ribble Valley, explores the richly beautiful surroundings that inspired him. A number of names which occur in ‘The Lord of the Rings’ are similar to those found locally, including Shire Lane (in Hurst Green) and the River Shirebourn (similar to the name of the family which built Stonyhurst). Hurst Green is eight km/five miles west of Clitheroe and 15km/nine and a half miles north east of Preston on the B6243. There is limited car parking in the village. Photo: nw
9. Lancaster Canal walks
Take a leisurely, flat walk along a Lancaster Canal towpath this Winter. The canal weaves its way through scenic villages and towns from Preston to Lancaster, with many good pubs and cafes along the way. | Wendy Elle
10. Lytham, St Annes and the Ribble Estuary
Take a stroll along the front at Lytham, accompanied by bracing sea breezes and views of the Ribble Estuary. The walk can be taken on the promenade or down on the sand, but watch out for the tide. And don’t forget to explore the town centre, with its independent shops and cafes offering warm treats to fend off the winter chill. | National World
11. Blackpool Central Promenade
For a bracing and lively winter walk, head to Blackpool's central promenade. There are some weird and wonderful sights along the Promenade including the colourful Odyssey art installation. The tall Dune Grass Sculptures are also along here, as well as amsusements and a host of food a drink options. Photo: Daniel Martino
12. Singing Ringing Tree, Burnley
Burnley's Panopticon, 'Singing Ringing Tree', is a unique musical sculpture which overlooks Burnley from its position high above the town on Crown Point. Constructed from pipes of galvanised steel stacked in layers, this Panopticon takes the form of a tree bending to the winds and harnesses the energy of those winds to produce a low, tuneful song. In June 2007, Singing Ringing Tree was named winner of a National Award for architectural excellence by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). 'Singing Ringing Tree' is close to the Dunnockshaw Millennium Wood, part of the Forest of Burnley reforestation programme, and links to the Pennine Bridleway and local walking routes. Many native tree and bird species are to be observed. Photo: UGC