Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX follows the short Pendle Way route from Barley to Pendle Hill and returns the same way. It covers 5.8 km with about 339 m of ascent, normally taking 2½ to 3½ hours. The village and lower tracks are gentle, but the final climb onto the plateau is steep and often muddy.
Leave Barley on the signed paths through the village and towards the foot of Pendle Hill. Follow the Pendle Way waymarks, recognised by the black witch symbol and yellow arrows, across fields and onto the open hillside. The improved zigzag path gains height before joining the steeper summit approach. Once on the broad plateau, continue to the trig point at 557 m. In mist, the edge and summit paths can feel surprisingly remote.
Return to Barley by exactly the same Pendle Way line. This GPX does not complete the longer 11 km reservoir and woodland circuit. Field paths, gates and several signed routes around Barley can cause confusion, so check the GPX on the way back. Keep dogs controlled around livestock, stay on the improved path and expect the summit plateau to be colder and windier than the village.
The Pendle Way is waymarked with a black witch on a broomstick and yellow arrows.
Pendle Hill visitor information
Route Waypoints
Start from the main village car park and check local charges. Use the pedestrian exit towards Barley rather than the vehicle road.
Follow the signed route through the village, keeping to pavements and public paths. Watch for the point where the Pendle Way leaves the lanes for field gates.
Pick up the black-witch and yellow-arrow waymarks. Confirm the return junction before entering fields, as several other signed routes meet around Barley.
Continue through gates and stiles towards the hill. Keep dogs on a lead near livestock.
Climb the restored path across Barley Moor. Stay on the built line to reduce erosion.
Gain the broad summit ground. In cloud, use a bearing rather than following the edge blindly.
Reach the trig point at 557 m. Do not continue onto the longer Pendle circuit.
Retrace the zigzags, fields and village paths to the car park. At each field junction, follow the Pendle Way markers back towards Barley rather than the reservoir circuit.
Essential Tips
Pendle has several overlapping trails. The black-witch symbol and GPX identify the short Pendle Way line.
The improved path protects badly eroded ground. Do not cut directly up or down the slope.
The approach crosses working fields. Use a lead, close gates and give cattle plenty of room.
Wind, rain and cloud are much stronger above Barley. Carry a waterproof and navigation even on this short route.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to climb Pendle Hill from Barley?
It normally takes 2½ to 3½ hours for the round trip from Barley car park to the summit and back. The route covers 5.8 km with 339 m of ascent.
What are the black witch waymarks on Pendle Hill?
They're the official markers for the Pendle Way route—a black witch on a broomstick with yellow arrows. Follow these to stay on the correct path, as several other trails overlap around Barley.
How steep is the climb up Pendle Hill?
The village and lower tracks are gentle, but the final climb onto the plateau is steep and often muddy. There's an improved zigzag path that makes the ascent easier—stay on it to avoid erosion.