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Great Hill Loop

A varied trip through quiet forests and across barren moorland.

Hiking Difficult

Distance
16 km
Ascent
326 m
Descent
326 m
Duration
3-4 hrs
Low Point
147 m
High Point
359 m
Gradient
Great Hill Loop Map

Taking in desolate opens spaces, tight forests and peaceful lake shore paths, this is an exceptionally varied hike in an underrated part of the World.

Description

Park up in Brinscall - a traditional Lancastrian village which is home to a lovely tea shop and some quaint country pubs. Follow a road which climbs south out of the village and turns into a track as it makes its way up the moors towards the summit of Great Hill. The path becomes rockier and more uneven just below the summit but it's still easy enough terrain all the way to the top.

On the summit is a wind break and unless you're here on a rare still day you'll be glad of it! It's amazingly effective but the summit of Great Hill is still not a place you're likely to linger - it's a beautiful yet barren spot, completely unsuitable for picnics!

Head south-west off the summit, dropping down to and then crossing over a small creek. Follow a vague and - unless you're here in the height of summer - muddy path across moorland, heading for a rounded hump called "Round Loaf". Go over this and begin descending down towards Limestone Brook, a peaceful little valley which leads off the moors and into forests. Descend the forests past the Wellington Memorial (a tribute to the crew of a Wellington Bomber which crashed nearby in 1942) to a road. Stroll down this past Yarrow Reservoir and then on to Angelzarke Reservoir.

Get onto a path called "Woodland Trail" and follow this as it winds along the east shore of Angelzarke Reservoir. At the northern end of the reservoir follow a clear, flat path which follows a river past the hamlet of White Coppice and on to Brinscall.

Difficulty

Difficult

Hiking trails where obstacles such as rocks or roots are prevalent. Some obstacles can require care to step over or around. At times, the trail can be worn and eroded. The grade of the trail is generally quite steep, and can often lead to strenuous hiking.

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between March and October

Features

  • Wildlife
  • Picturesque
  • Summit Hike
  • Dog friendly
  • Family friendly

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area