Pendle Hill

Pendle Hill rises in a long whaleback above Sabden, reaching 557 m at Big End. It is a Marilyn — a distinct hill rather than a mountain — but its isolation from the rest of the Pennines gives it disproportionate presence and excellent views. On a clear day you can see the Yorkshire Dales, the Forest of Bowland, and the Irish Sea from the top.

The most popular ascent is from Barley on the north side, but the climb from Sabden is shorter and quieter. Follow the road towards Clitheroe to the start of the path. The summit can be windy and the cloud comes down quickly — take a jacket even in summer.

things to do sight
A story
Pendle Hill is best known as the backdrop to the Pendle witch trials of 1612, when ten people from villages around its base were hanged at Lancaster for witchcraft. The Quaker founder George Fox also climbed the hill in 1652 and claimed a vision at its summit that set the Society of Friends in motion.