Longridge Fell

A straightforward Ribble Valley walk with a proper Fell feel, Longridge Fell is ideal when I want decent mileage without anything too wild. From Hurst Green I head up through Deer House Wood, climb steadily onto the Fell, then take in the wide forestry tracks and open views before looping back down to the village for a pint.

I usually start in Hurst Green, parking just before Stonyhurst College, then head up through Deer House Wood towards the old road. It’s a nice way to begin, with that gradual shift from village edge to woodland and then onto the higher ground. From the old road I turn right briefly, then left onto the path through the woods, which leads nicely onto the forestry road heading up towards the top of Longridge Fell.

Once up there, this walk comes into its own. The tracks make for easy walking, the height gives it a more open feel, and there is a good spot near the top on the forestry road where I like to stop for lunch or a longer break. It is not a dramatic summit sort of outing, but that’s part of the charm, it’s simple, roomy and very easy to enjoy.

For the way back, I usually return down and take the gravel road for a bit of variety, then drop back through the farm towards Hurst Green. It makes a tidy loop and keeps the descent straightforward. Back in the village, having two pubs waiting at the end is a very welcome bonus, especially after a damp Lancashire morning.