Walking

Blackburn and Darwen sits at the heart of Lancashire's Hill Country. Here you can experience the dramatic moorland, tranquil reservoirs, traditional farmland and wooded valleys. The area is a haven for wildlife and an early morning walk will often reveal a surprise in the hedgerows and woodland areas. The terrain is ideal for both short rambles and serious expeditions. The countryside provides the ideal opportunity to take life at your own pace and enjoy the great outdoors.

Explore the Borough's 280 miles of public rights of way that lead through beautiful parks, farmland, woodlands, hidden valleys, around reservoirs, along riversides and over the 90 square miles of the unspoilt  West Pennine Moors.

Sunnyhurst Woods in Darwen covers seven miles of footpaths that meander through beautiful natural woodland setting. The old keepers cottage now serves as a visitor centre and art gallery for local artists where visitors can enjoy refreshments. A local landmark, Darwen Tower, is in the midst of the West Pennine Moors by Sunnyhurst woods. At the top of the tower you can experience the super views of the moors and beyond, spanning the English coast to the crags and mountains of Wales and the Lake District on a clear day.

The Witton Weavers Way is a 32 mile walk of discovery which can be completed in 2 days, although it is made up of 4 individual shorter walks . Leaflets are available for the full trail as well as the four shorter circular routes around the Way.
These are as follows:

• The Beamers Trail - 6 miles
• The Reelers Trail - 7.5 miles
• The Tacklers Trail - 9.5 miles
• The Warpers Trail - 8.5 miles
• Walk number 5 - to connect the others to make the full Witton Weavers Way

For something a bit shorter & suitable for families or those just wanting a quick stroll try one of these walks around Witton Country Park:

• Riverside Saunter 1 or 2 miles 
• Historic Footsteps 1.5 or 2.5 miles
• Wainright's Ramble 2.5 or 4.5 miles

There are also two walks up to Darwen Tower, one leading up from Sunnyhurst Wood and one from Bold Venture Park.

4 Walks around East Rural Darwen

Also available to download are a set of Heritage Trails around Blackburn, Darwen & other areas of the Borough. Click here for more information.