From isolated hilltop towers and areas of outstanding natural beauty to rolling parkland – we pick 10 views that will make you wish you brought your camera
Chances are if you’re a keen photographer, an avid rambler or part of a cycle club, then awe-inspiring vistas will be a regular reward to outdoor activity in Lancashire. But for those yet to explore the fells and valleys of the county, we pick 10 views guaranteed to make even the most exercise shy don those walking boots and get outdoors.
Jubilee Tower, also known as Darwen Tower
Perched atop of Darwen Hill, the tower dates back to 1898. If not worn out from the walk up the hill, visitors can climb the tower’s internal stairs for an even more breathtaking view of the surrounding country that includes Yorkshire, the Isle of Man and even Blackpool Tower.
Longridge Fell
With far-reaching views across the Forest of Bowland, the steep ascent is well worth the climb. Start the Bowland walk at the Jeffery Hill carpark and prepare to see Beacon Fell and the Trough of Bowland upon reaching the summit Spire Hill.
Williamson Park
There are 54 acres of parkland in this pretty part of Lancaster. Expect spectacular views as well as the beautiful Ashton Memorial folly, built by Lancaster’s linoleum industrialist Lord Ashton in 1909.
Blackpool Tower
While the coastal view from Blackpool’s eponymous tower is recommended by day, come night-fall the fluorescent panorama, viewed from 380 feet up in the sky, is magical.
Lancaster Castle
It is thought that Lancaster Castle is built on the site of an old Roman fort, although the structure we see today was dates from around the 11th century. The Castle famously served as the setting for the Lancashire Witch trials in 1612, where ten people were found guilty of witchcraft and sentenced to death.
Clitheroe Castle
Clitheroe has been dominated by its landmark castle for centuries and is said to have been built in 1186 by Robert de Lacey. From its vantage point at the top of Castle Hill, you can see the beautiful Ribble Valley, Pendle Hill and much further afield. The Castle is surrounded by 16 acres of parkland and Clitheroe Castle Museum has a host of interactive permanent exhibitions and a packed schedule of events all year round.
Gragareth
Expect to find stunning panoramic views of Ingleborough, The Lake District and Morecambe Bay from 627 meters above sea level at the top of Lancashire’s highest point.
Kirkby Lonsdale
Ruskin's View certainly has some ringing endorsements from the world of art, the view of the River Lune from St Mary's Church was praised by John Ruskin as "One of the loveliest views in England" and painted by J.M.W. Turner..
Peel Monument, Holcombe Hill
Head here on a clear day to be rewarded with views stretching as far as North Wales, as well as the town of Holcombe and Ramsbottom village below. Cyclists will know this area for the Rake, the home of one of the UK’s shortest but most gruelling cycle races.
Silverdale
One of Lancashire’s most beautiful coastal areas and steeped in history – Elizabeth Gaskell wrote some of her novels from a tower overlooking the sea. Nearby is Leighton Hall, a historic home open to the public, and the Leighton Moss RSPB sanctuary.
