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:
13. Gisburn Forest, Ribble Valley
This Forestry Commission-run forest is part of the Forest of Bowland and is perfectly set up for families keen to take on a wintry adventure. There's vast green space and woodland and the forest is famed for its multiple walking trails, with varied terrain and sweeping, vast scenic views, while also having a route suitable for differing abilities, experience and ages. Gisburn Forest is also ideal for anyone looking for a walk in the wilderness, but that is also easily accessible and the Stocks Reservoir circular route (white arrows) is also an option and you can find a map of the trails, here offering fantastic views wherever you look. Another bonus is that the drive to the car parks at Gisburn Hub, Cocklet Hill and Stocks Reservoir offer up more sweeping views of snow-covered trees and if you're fortunate, you can watch as the low winter sun floods through the woodland as you pass by. Photo: Lancashire Post
14. Beacon Fell Country Park
The Beacon Fell Country Park consists of 110 hectares (271 acres) of woodland, moorland and farmland. The Beacon Fell summit is 266 metres (873 feet) above sea level and offers spectacular views of the Forest of Bowland and Morecambe Bay. On a clear day it is even possible to see the Isle of Man. The visitor centre provides a cosy retreat for a hot drink after your stroll. Photo: Tripadvisor
15. Mere Sands Wood, Rufford
Mere Sands Wood is a Lancashire Wildlife Trust nature reserve near Rufford, famous for its rich biodiversity, including rare birds like kingfishers, dragonflies, and fungi, set around lakes created from former sand extraction. It offers easy walking trails, birdwatching hides, a visitor centre, cafe, and parking, making it a popular spot for wildlife enthusiasts to enjoy woodland, wetlands, and meadows.