Burnley's Pennine Countryside
Surrounded by hills and moorland, Burnley lies in a hollow where the River Calder and the River Brun meet. Its industrial past belies its rural setting with nearly two-thirds countryside; it has scenery that can rival parts of the Dales, Lakes and Bowland.
Burnley’s countryside is a living mosaic of woods, farmland and waterways with over 400 kilometeres of cycleways, bridleways and footpaths leading from the South Pennine Moors via the spectacular Cliviger Gorge to the Calder and Ribble Valleys in the shadow of Pendle Hill.
Blond winter grasses, golden autumn leaves, purple heather and spring bluebells provide the landscape with year round colour and it is home to abundant wildlife with heron, kingfisher, peregrine, woodpecker, hare, fox badger and deer all making their homes in the area.
So come an visit this hidden part of Lancashire; relax, unwind and enjoy the beautiful countryside; take a closer look at the rare birds and wildlife; visit the attractions along your route and enjoy a relaxing drink and meal in one of the many pubs and restaurants nearby.
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Forest of Burnley
Ancient woodland and new planting, arboretum trees and sculpture trails; the Forest of Burnley can be explored along the footpaths, cycleways and bridleways that weave through the woodland. -
Waterways
One of the seven wonders of the British canal network, two rivers winding through the town and countryside and reservoirs for fishing, windsurfing or sailing.
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Panopticon
High on the moors overlooking Burnley stands the award-winning ‘Singing-Ringing Tree’; a brand new landmark resembling a wind-blown hawthorne. Enjoy the view, the fresh air and the stunning work of art. -
Parks and gardens
Ideal for large scale events or just family fun; you will find bandstands, flowerbeds, playgrounds, riverside walks, a boating lake, orchards, woodland and much more in Burnley’s beautiful parks and gardens.
In the movie The Lord of the Rings the part of Gandalf the Grey - the legendary wizard is played by Burnley born Sir Ian McKellan.