Mountain peaks around Bolton-By-Bowland provide diverse hiking experiences within the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). This region, situated on the southeastern edge of the AONB, serves as a base for exploring notable fells and hills near Bolton-By-Bowland. The area offers varied terrain, from commanding landmarks to remote, wild landscapes, with popular walking trails offering panoramic views. Visitors can find numerous footpaths and trails catering to different fitness levels.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
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Also on a very clear day you can see Blackpool Tower to the west, approx 40 miles away.
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Don't forget that it's always windy on top.
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Holden Moor (Whelp Stone Crag) 371m P67 (1217ft) (DoBIH Hill ID: 16586) [JNSA 10841] County of Yorkshire Definitive List summit Forest of Bowland National Landscape Definitive List summit County of Yorkshire Trig Pillar
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I grew up running around here, the front side with the steps is great for training.
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Weets Hill rises to 1,302 feet (397 m) above Barnoldswick and features on the Pendle Way, a 45-mile (72 km) loop of the region. It's the second highest point on the walk, behind the eponymous Pendle Hill. Views from the summit are extensive on a clear day, with the Aire Valley, the Ribble Valley and the distant Yorkshire Dales all visible. The famous Yorkshire Three Peaks are arrayed with Inglebrough on the left, Whernside in the middle and Pen-y-ghent on the right. There's also a bench near the trig point, so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the panorama.
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Whelp Stone Crag is the highest point of Gisburn Forest in the Forest of Bowland. Although care must be taken, especially in wet conditions, the views across the Ribble Valley are amazing on a clear day and well worth the climb.
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Pendle Hill looms over East Lancashire between the towns of Clitheroe and Nelson. With its distinctive humpback shape, visible for miles around from all directions, it is a local landmark, rising from an area of green beauty. The district is dotted with tiny hamlets and farms, divided by ancient drystone walls and full of folklore and stories – not least the famous tale of the Pendle Witches. Geographically, Pendle Hill is part of the Pennine Chain of hills that run north-south through the northern half of England. It is included in the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, though Pendle is a discrete hill, separated from the main upland area of Bowland by the Ribble Valley.
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Pendle Hill, LancashirePendle Hill looms over East Lancashire between the towns of Clitheroe and Nelson. With its distinctive humpback shape, visible for miles around from all directions, it is a local landmark, rising from an area of green beauty. The district is dotted with tiny hamlets and farms, divided by ancient drystone walls and full of folklore and stories – not least the famous tale of the Pendle Witches. Geographically, Pendle Hill is part of the Pennine Chain of hills that run north-south through the northern half of England. It is included in the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, though Pendle is a discrete hill, separated from the main upland area of Bowland by the Ribble Valley.
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Among the most popular peaks, Pendle Hill summit trig point stands out for its extensive views and historical significance, particularly its association with the Pendle Witch Trials. Another highly regarded spot is Weets Hill Summit & Trig Point, offering broad panoramas of the Aire and Ribble Valleys, and the distant Yorkshire Dales.
Ward's Stone is the highest point in the Forest of Bowland, reaching 561 meters (1,841 feet). Its summit provides spectacular views across a vast expanse of northwest England, including the Yorkshire Dales, the Lake District, and Morecambe Bay. It's known for its distinctive landscape with two trig points and large gritstone boulders.
While many peaks offer a challenge, some routes are suitable for families. For instance, the climb up Parlick Fell, often tackled with Fair Snape Fell, is considered a good option for older children and those seeking a moderate challenge. The area also features easy hikes like the Hobble's Way – Bolton-by-Bowland Village loop, which are less strenuous.
The peaks around Bolton-By-Bowland offer diverse natural features. Ward's Stone is notable for its flat top with two trig points and large gritstone boulders. Wolfhole Crag features striking gritstone rock formations and buttresses, attracting rock climbers. Bowland Knotts is a definitive point in the Forest of Bowland, offering unique views of the surrounding landscape.
For a challenging experience, consider the ascent to Ward's Stone, which can be long and demanding, with some paths being indistinct and potentially boggy, offering a true wilderness feel. The Pendle Hill summit trig point also offers challenging routes, including a steep climb up stone stairs from Barley.
Many peaks provide excellent views. Pendle Hill offers extensive views across the Ribble Valley, the Yorkshire Dales, and even the Southern Lake District on a clear day. Beacon Hill, located above Grindleton, provides a complete panorama of the Yorkshire Dales, the Bowland Fells, and the Ribble Valley. The ridge walk between Fair Snape Fell and Parlick Fell is also renowned for breathtaking views of the Lancashire countryside and the Irish Sea.
Yes, the area around Bolton-By-Bowland offers gravel biking opportunities. You can find routes such as the Stocks Reservoir and Gisburn Forest loop, which is an easy option, or more difficult routes like the Bowland Knotts Climb. These are part of the wider gravel biking guides for the region.
Pendle Hill is deeply steeped in folklore and mystery, primarily known for its association with the infamous Pendle Witch Trials of 1612. This rich history makes it a captivating destination for those interested in local legends and historical events.
While specific recommendations vary, generally, spring and autumn offer pleasant conditions for hiking with milder temperatures and often clearer views. However, some highlights like Bowland Knotts are best enjoyed on a calm, dry day, suggesting that stable weather is key regardless of the season.
For a more solitary experience, Wolfhole Crag is an excellent choice. It is an isolated and less-frequented hill known for its quiet atmosphere and offers a genuine wilderness experience due to its remoteness and longer trek over varied terrain.
Yes, there are numerous footpaths and trails. For example, the Pendle Hill Path offers choices between a shorter, steeper ascent or a longer, less steep switchback path. The area also features the Stocks Reservoir loop, a moderate hike, and the Ribble Valley Jubilee Trail for an easier option.
Bolton-By-Bowland village itself offers visitor amenities such as a car park, toilet facilities, and a tourist information center, making it a convenient starting point for exploring the surrounding fells.


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