Attractions and Places To See around Rossendale - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Rossendale include a diverse range of historical sites, natural landscapes, and outdoor activity areas. The region, often referred to as the Rossendale Valley, features former industrial sites repurposed for recreation, alongside scenic viewpoints and reservoirs. Visitors can explore a variety of man-made monuments and natural features across this area. It offers numerous opportunities for outdoor exploration and discovery.
Best attractions and places to see around Rossendale
- The most popular attractions is Lee Quarry Trails, a mountain biking park that offers an entertaining selection of trails. It features various sections, including pump tracks, suitable for different skill levels.
- Another must-see spot is Healey Dell Viaduct, a historical bridge. This 103-foot-high structure, built in 1867, once carried the Rochdale to Bacup railway line and now forms part of the National Cycle Network.
- Visitors also love Clowbridge Reservoir, an other man-made feature. This reservoir offers a 9.5-km circular trail popular for birding, fishing, and hiking.
- Rossendale is known for historical sites, scenic viewpoints, and outdoor activity areas. The region provides a variety of attractions to see and explore, from industrial heritage to natural trails.
- The attractions around Rossendale are appreciated by the komoot community, with 82 upvotes and 55 photos contributing to their popularity.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Lee Quarry Trails
Highlight (Segment) • MTB Park
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Compston's Cross
Highlight • Viewpoint
Compston's Cross was moved here by Alderman Samuel Compston in 1902. The high ground makes for marvellous walking, with excellent views to Clowbridge Reservoir, Nutshaw Hill and Pendle Hill.
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Cheesden Lumb Mill Ruins and Waterfall
Highlight • Historical Site
By 1809, we know that the mill was being used to perform a whole range of textile procedures. An advert in the Manchester Mercury has the mill placed up for auction and details its contents. These include a carding engine (used to prepare a woollen fleece for spinning), a ‘billy’ (an improved form of a Spinning Jenny), a ‘teaser’ (a circular drum covered with heads from the spiky teasel flower to improve the texture of the cloth by raising its nap) and a blueing house (where the cloth was hung and sulphur dioxide fumes from a brimstone stove would bleach it).
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Healey Dell Viaduct
Highlight • Bridge
The last time a passenger train chugged across it was in 1949 and freight trains continued until the 1960s. Today the National Cycle Network makes good use of it.
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Washwheel Mill Chimney
Highlight • Monument
Remaining Archaeology
This is a compact site which is full of industrial archaeology including the remains of the stone becks used in the bleaching process which probably held around 400 gallons of scouring liquor. To the north (directly behind the mill) is the main lodge which was fed by a riveted iron pipe from a lodge to the west (across the river). The pipe is still in evidence but has fallen into the river. The supply pipe for the water used in the bleaching process is still on site also close by to the chimney. A large overgrown indent with some stone and brick surviving runs parallel to the brook - this was the location for the Lancashire Boiler and economiser.
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Cowpe Lowe Trig Point
Highlight • Historical Site
It is one of the centrepieces on the Rossendale Way, which circumnavigates the region. The Way skirts the rim of Cowpe Low's bowl, rewarding walkers with delightful views of the Rossendale Valley.
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Lumb Viaduct
Highlight • Bridge
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Whittle Pike Memorial Cross
Highlight • Monument
The cross was erected by a local Scouts group (Bury St Marks Senior Scouts) of which F/O Molyneux was a founder. Another plaque was added in 1992 above the original.
The circumstances of the loss of two Avro Shackletons are unknown. They left RAF St Eval in Cornwall on separate exercises after 10am but for various reasons ended up taking off just a few minutes apart and heading for the same area on a patrol and search exercise over the Irish Sea.
By 8pm however, when both pilots F/O Board and P/O Wood made their hourly radio reports, there was the prescribed 85 miles between the two aircraft.
At just before 9pm P/O Len Wood in WL743 radioed in again and after that nothing was heard from either Shackleton.
Amid various theories, the Board of Inquiry deemed the most probable cause of their disappearance was that they were both in the same target area at the same time and, unlikely as it may seem, crashed into each other.
Despite a 3 day search, no trace of either aircraft was found. 11 years later one of WL743’s engines was caught in the net of a trawler fishing off the south west of Ireland.
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Scout Moor Wind Farm
Highlight • Structure
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Clowbridge Reservoir
Highlight • Structure
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Tips from the Community
What inevitably catches the eye of passing cyclists here are the modern heirs of the beautiful historic windmills. Centuries ago, our ancestors were clever enough to harness the power of the wind for their own purposes, driving millstones and, for example, grinding grain into flour. Often placed in dozens throughout the landscape, this modern and unaesthetic variant—in the past, attention was paid to the architecture of each individual mill—serves to generate electricity. These wind farms are not without controversy, as their construction often lacks consideration for the landscape, and, above all, their slender blades can become death traps for birds.
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The small sacred monument, listed here in the komoot system under the name "Stone Cross Monument," is called "Compston's Cross." It has a base of three tapered brick circles and has stood at this location for more than 120 years. It is likely of older origin, as the stone cross is said to have been relocated here – about halfway between Clough Bottom Reservoir and Clowbridge Reservoir – at the beginning of the 20th century.
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Kamoot will send you up the right hand side of the river, cross here it is much easier. Aldo the path just before this area is non existent unless you are a dog or a dear 🤣 try and head down the hill as soon as possible
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some family-friendly attractions in Rossendale?
For families, the Lumb Viaduct offers a historical site that is also part of a cycle way, making it suitable for walks and rides. Additionally, the trails around Clowbridge Reservoir provide a moderately challenging 9.5-km circular route for hiking and birding, though dogs are not permitted on the immediate pathway.
Are there easy walking routes or circular trails in Rossendale?
Yes, Rossendale offers several easy walking routes. The 9.5-km circular trail around Clowbridge Reservoir is popular for hiking. For more options, you can explore the hiking guide for Rossendale, which includes easy routes like the Clough Head Visitor Centre – Calf Hey Reservoir Loop.
What historical sites can I visit in the Rossendale Valley?
Rossendale is rich in historical sites. You can visit the impressive Healey Dell Viaduct, a 103-foot-high structure built in 1867, which is now part of the National Cycle Network. Other notable historical spots include Compston's Cross, a sacred monument offering excellent views, and the ruins of Cheesden Lumb Mill Ruins and Waterfall.
Where can I find good viewpoints in Rossendale?
For panoramic views, head to Compston's Cross, which provides excellent vistas of Clowbridge Reservoir, Nutshaw Hill, and Pendle Hill. Other viewpoints include Cowpe Lowe Trig Point and Whittle Pike Memorial Cross, both offering elevated perspectives of the landscape.
Are there mountain biking trails in Rossendale?
Absolutely, Rossendale is well-known for its mountain biking opportunities. The Lee Quarry Trails offer an entertaining selection of trails, including pump tracks, suitable for various skill levels. You can find more detailed routes and information in the MTB Trails around Rossendale guide.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
Beyond visiting specific attractions, Rossendale offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and general cycling. For detailed routes, explore the hiking guide, MTB trails guide, and cycling guide for the area.
What is the best time of year to visit Rossendale attractions?
The best time to visit Rossendale attractions largely depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer offer the mildest weather for outdoor pursuits like hiking and cycling. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can offer a different, often quieter, experience of the landscapes, though some trails might be more challenging due to weather conditions.
Are there any unique or 'hidden gem' attractions in Rossendale?
While not entirely hidden, the Scout Moor Wind Farm is a unique and awe-inspiring sight, being the second-largest onshore wind farm in England, with great gravel roads for exploration. The Cheesden Lumb Mill Ruins and Waterfall also offer a picturesque and less-frequented historical spot.
Can I find places for wild swimming in the Rossendale area?
While specific designated wild swimming spots are not highlighted, the region's natural landscapes, including areas around waterfalls like those near Cheesden Lumb Mill Ruins or 'secret waterfalls' accessible from Healey Dell Viaduct, are sometimes explored by wild swimmers. Always exercise caution and check local regulations before entering open water.
What are the public transport options for reaching attractions in Rossendale?
Public transport in Rossendale primarily consists of local bus services connecting towns and villages. However, many of the more remote natural attractions and trailheads may require a car for convenient access. It's advisable to check specific bus routes and schedules if relying on public transport to reach your desired destination.
Are there dog-friendly walks in Rossendale?
Many of Rossendale's outdoor trails are dog-friendly, allowing you to explore the scenic landscapes with your pet. However, specific rules may apply in certain areas; for example, dogs are generally not allowed on the immediate pathway around Clowbridge Reservoir. Always keep dogs on a lead where livestock are present and clean up after them.
What kind of natural features can I explore in Rossendale?
Rossendale offers a variety of natural features, including reservoirs like Clowbridge Reservoir, which is popular for birding and hiking. You can also discover waterfalls, such as those near Cheesden Lumb Mill Ruins, and enjoy expansive views from various hilltops and viewpoints across the valley.
Most popular routes around Rossendale
Most popular attractions around Rossendale
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