A stunning walking route that winds past an ancient quarry, a towering hill steeped in witchcraft folklore, verdant farmland and picturesque villages has been hailed as one of Lancashire's finest walks.

Lancashire and the surrounding area have long been linked to the notorious Pendle Witch trials of 1612, and the beloved Walking With Witches trail guides walkers past significant landmarks connected to the region's 'supernatural' history.

However, this walk isn't solely for those fascinated by the dark and mysterious. Packed with spectacular views and breathtaking vistas at every turn, this route is ideal for anyone who loves the great outdoors and craves a slice of nature's finest offerings.

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The trail begins at Barley Car Park in Pendle, where ramblers can choose between the Western Loop (four miles in length) or the Eastern Loop (three and a half miles in length).

Those opting for the Western Loop will cross a bubbling stream via a footbridge before arriving at the village of Newchurch, renowned for its St Mary's Church which features the 'eye of god' painted on its exterior to repel evil spirits, and a 'witches grave' bearing the inscription 'Nutter' near the entrance, apparently referencing the infamous 'witch' Alice Nutter (though the date on the gravestone is too recent for it to genuinely relate to Alice).

The next stop on the Western Loop would be Faugh's Quarry, the spot where the notorious 'witch' Demdike allegedly encountered the devil, reports Lancs Live.

Walkers would then proceed to Moss End Farm, another crucial location in the Pendle Witch Trials as it was the home of John Bullcock, who gave evidence against the witches and accused them of causing his wife Jane's death.

The route would then lead hikers past Saddlers Farm (believed to be Demdike's home), which has since been transformed into the Shekinah Christian Centre.

Completing the Western Loop, walkers would pass Drivers Height Farm, descend towards the Upper Ogden Reservoir and return to Barley, whilst enjoying spectacular views of Pendle Hill throughout.

Pendle Hill remains synonymous with the Pendle Witch Trials, though there's no concrete evidence that any of the trial's pivotal events actually occurred on the hill itself.

However, its history extends beyond witchcraft - in 1652, writer and English Dissenter George Fox ascended Pendle Hill and whilst gazing out from its peak, experienced a vision that led him to establish the influential Quaker movement.

The summit of Pendle Hill, also called The Big End, is thought to be the location of a Bronze Age burial mound.

One Tripadvisor reviewer says: "A walk up Pendle Hill is a must for every Lancastrian. If you weren't blessed to be born in Gods-own-County, then standing at the trig point you will be able to tell your friends that you have seen the whole of Lancashire. Highly recommended walk (on a clear day)."

Meanwhile, another walker shares their experience: "Sunday morning walk/climb! Walking from the bottom straight up the front is absolutely brilliant testing not to stop but just keep pushing forward. It's worth the views alone. And climbing back down the side was just as good with views 2nd to none. I will be doing this again soon."

The Eastern Loop, meanwhile, takes walkers along the Pendle Way, passing Croft House Farm and crossing stiles and footbridges before reaching Roughlee village, a significant location in the notorious Pendle Witch Trials.

Continuing past Crowtrees Farm, believed to have been Alice Nutter's residence, ramblers follow the picturesque route before circling back to the car park.

Despite the area's reputation for being haunted and steeped in sinister history, there's no denying Pendle's breathtaking beauty - making it perfect for keen walkers, particularly those with a penchant for the paranormal.