Best attractions and places to see around Blacko include a variety of natural landmarks, historic villages, and viewpoints within the Pendle district of Lancashire. The area is characterized by its scenic landscapes, including views of Pendle Hill and the Forest of Bowland AONB. Visitors can explore sites that highlight local history and natural beauty, offering diverse experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. Blacko serves as a base for discovering the unique character of this part of England.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
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On the narrow grass verge between the road and the footpath in the village of Roughlee stands a memorial to Alice Nutter. Approaching cyclists from a distance might immediately think, "What a lovely statue." But anyone who stops to take a closer look will surely notice the woman's hands bound with a heavy iron chain, as well as the sad expression on her face. Alice Nutter was born around 1560 and, along with several other women, was convicted of witchcraft and executed in 1612.
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She patiently waits here, on the narrow grassy strip between the road and the footpath in the village of Roughlee. From a distance, the slowly approaching hiker might spontaneously think, "What a lovely monument." But up close, the attentive observer will not fail to notice the hands bound with a heavy iron chain, nor the sad expression on this woman's face. Her name is Alice Nutter. She was born around 1560 and in 1612—along with several other women—was convicted of witchcraft and executed.
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Don't forget that it's always windy on top.
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Sabden offers a great stop for an en-route refreshment. I love the White Hart Pub and, during the week it offers incredibly good value lunches. You will also find a post office / convenience store to top up on water if necessary. It also is a typical Lancashire Village. Situated in both the Ribble Valley and the Forest of Bowland AONB. Then history if very rich, starting from the Middle Ages. At that time, the main industry was farming and quarrying. You can still spot some old vaccary walls nearby. But more recently; the water quality in Ribble Valley was ideal for calico printing, and the industry took off in the 18th and 19th centuries. At one point, seven mills in Sabden employed over 2,000 people. Most of the houses were built for the mill employees and the industry continued until 1931. It was also home to cotton spinning and weaving mills. The last one closed in 1964 and is now an antique centre.
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I grew up running around here, the front side with the steps is great for training.
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Visitors frequently enjoy exploring Pendle Hill summit trig point, known for its excellent views and connection to the Pendle Witch Trials. Another highly-rated spot is Downham Village, a beautifully preserved settlement with a traditional Lancashire charm. Sabden Village also offers a peaceful countryside experience with rich history.
Yes, the area is rich in history. You can visit Alice Nutter Statue in Roughlee, commemorating one of the accused in the Pendle Witch Trials. Downham Village is a living historical site, preserving its 16th-century character. Additionally, The Clarion House, built in 1912, offers a glimpse into local social history and serves as a cafe for walkers and cyclists.
Blacko offers stunning natural landscapes. You can enjoy views of the iconic Pendle Hill, a significant natural landmark popular for hiking. The village itself is situated across the valley of Pendle Water, and parts of Blacko parish are within the beautiful Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). From Blacko Tower, you can also see Boulsworth Hill to the southeast.
For families, Downham Village and Sabden Village are pleasant for strolls. Nearby, Sough Park provides recreational facilities including a children's playground and skateboard area. Thornton Hall Country Park, located in Thornton in Craven, is a larger family-friendly attraction with animal encounters, rides, and play areas.
The area around Blacko is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous hiking routes, such as the 'Pendle Way: Barrowford and Roughlee Loop' or the 'Barley (village) – Pendle Hill summit trig point loop'. For cycling, options include the 'Alice Nutter Statue – View of Pendle Hill loop' or the 'Pennine Way – Foulridge Wharf and Café loop'. Gravel biking routes are also available, like the 'Wycoller River with Ducks – Wycoller Hall ruins loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the hiking guide, cycling guide, and gravel biking guide for Blacko.
Blacko Tower (Stansfield Tower) offers prominent views from the summit of Blacko Hill, including Boulsworth Hill, Nelson, and Pendle Hill. The Pendle Hill summit trig point provides extensive views north into the Forest of Bowland and over populated areas of Lancashire. Downham Village also offers direct views of Pendle Hill, especially scenic at sunset.
Yes, Downham Village boasts the excellent Assheton Arms pub. In Sabden Village, you'll find a lovely cafe and the White Hart Pub. The Clarion House, open on Sundays, also serves hot and cold drinks, crisps, and confectionery, welcoming walkers and cyclists.
Downham Village is unique because it has been owned by the same family since 1558, preserving its historic character. You won't find satellite dishes, overhead cables, or road signs, maintaining a traditional Lancashire village ambiance. It was also the filming location for 'Whistle Down the Wind'.
The region around Blacko, including Pendle Hill and the Forest of Bowland AONB, is beautiful throughout the warmer months for hiking and cycling. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
While Blacko itself is a village, nearby Gisburn offers accommodation options such as the charming 17th-century manor, Stirk House Hotel, which also serves as an event venue. Other villages in the wider Pendle district and Ribble Valley also provide various lodging choices.
Pendle Hill is a prominent natural landmark visible from Blacko, known for its distinctive humpback shape and its strong connection to the infamous Pendle Witch Trials of the early 17th century. It's a popular spot for hiking, offering challenging climbs and rewarding views, and is intertwined with local myth and legend.
Sough Park, located nearby in Sough, is a landscaped park offering various recreational facilities. These include a children's playground, a skateboard area, tennis courts, and a bowling green. It also features a war memorial and provides peaceful walking paths by a brook.


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