The West Pennine Moors Walking Festival, held in the scenic town of Chorley, Lancashire, offers an invigorating venture into some of Northern England’s most rugged and fiercely beautiful landscapes. From late April through May, walkers of all levels are invited to engage with moorland that stretches unyielding under wide skies and forests that shift in character with every step. The festival’s routes range from gentle 5-mile forest strolls to robust 15-mile upland challenges with elevation gains that test stamina and grit — expect climbs peaking near 400 meters.

Trails weave through mixed terrain: soft peat bogs that absorb your footfall, gravelly uplands where heather and bracken tussle, and dense woodlands whose branches reach like hands holding the path. Streams rush and murmur alongside, some daring you to cross without losing footing, urging progress with a restless energy that electrifies the air. Overhead, birds of prey circle tirelessly, their shadows darting on the moor below, while the wind carries scents of earth and rain — nature’s invitation to move deeper.

Planning your hike here means preparing for variable weather and forever-shifting terrain. Sturdy waterproof boots are non-negotiable; the moors' peat can be stubbornly wet even after dry spells. Layering is crucial — mornings might bite with cold, but midday sun warms exposed expanses. Packing water is essential, as streams may not always be safe to drink directly, and refilling points can be sparse along more isolated trails.

The festival itself balances guided group walks with independent exploration. Expert route leaders provide historical insights about the moors’ mining past and local legends tied to the landscape. Whether you lean toward slower, contemplative walks or faster-paced hikes is up to you — the moors accommodate both with an equal measure of challenge and charm.

For those looking to capture the essence of the moors, dawn and dusk light offers a fleeting gold that ignites the bracken and softens the harsh outlines of ancient stone walls. Patience might yield glimpses of roe deer slipping between trees or a fleeting barn owl on silent patrol.

The West Pennine Moors impose themselves not as a backdrop but as an active participant in your expedition: the wind commands respect, the hills invite endurance, and the landscape demands attention. It’s an adventure that rewards preparation and presence, inviting walkers to step out, tune in, and push their boundaries amid Lancashire’s wild, open spaces.