Round the Hills Walk

On the first Sunday in September each year, around 700 brave souls take part in this iconic walk around the hills and valleys of Rossendale.  Families, including young children, friends, dogs, and many visitors to the area enjoy this 'miles of smiles' walk.

The challenging 18 mile circular route starts at Marl Pits Leisure Centre on Newchurch Road and includes Cribden Hill, Goodshaw Hill, Clowbridge Reservoir and over the hills to Water and Waterfoot before ascending the highest hill, Cowpe Lowe (440 metres - 442 ft), on the way back to Marl Pits.  Those who cannot manage 18 miles can take a short cut to make it a 14 mile walk.

The walk was established in 1966 by Walter Whittaker, with the aim of encouraging local people to enjoy a healthy walk in the local hills.  It has been an annual event every year since then, apart from two occasions - one because of very bad weather, and the other because of Covid.  Rossendale Rotary took over the event quite a few years ago.

Even during Covid restrictions we encouraged people, through our Facebook page, to take the walk at a time to suit themselves.  The response was amazing and helped in preserving the walk as a popular annual event.