A spooky women-only Halloween hike over Pendle Hill, uncovering the true and tragic story of the infamous 1612 Pendle Witch Trials.

I have teamed up with ACAI Outdoorwear for a very special Halloween adventure on one of Lancashire’s most atmospheric hills.

Starting from Barley, we’ll climb onto Pendle Hill and make our way towards its 557m summit, exploring the landscape associated with one of the most famous witch trials in English history.

But this isn’t a story of pointy hats and broomsticks. Along the way we’ll uncover the real events of 1612: poverty, superstition, religious tension, accusations of harmful magic, the rivalry between the families of Demdike and Chattox, the Good Friday gathering at Malkin Tower and the extraordinary testimony that helped send people to the gallows.

We’ll walk at a supportive, sociable pace, stopping at suitable points to tell the story as it unfolded before descending through the moorland landscape towards Barley.

Expect a good climb, huge views, dark history and plenty of appropriately spooky atmosphere just one day before Halloween.

ACAI are offering a goody bag for all ladies who attend.

Polite notice: please only book your ticket if you can definitely make it on the day as there is limited availability. Goody bags will be given out upon arrival at the meeting place.

Distance: 6.7km / 4.2 miles

Ascent: 356m / 1,168ft

Level of difficulty: Intermediate – a relatively short route with a steep climb, uneven moorland terrain and an exposed 557m summit. Suitable fitness, good footwear and warm/waterproof layers are required.

👋 Who will be your guide?

I'm Emily, founder of Peak Outdoor Community (AKA @trigsandteeth on Instagram), and a qualified Mountain Leader based in Glossop on the edge of the Dark Peak. I've loved being outdoors since I was young, but hiking became a real passion in 2019 when I started exploring solo. Those adventures completely changed my life and inspired me to create Peak Outdoor Community to help other women discover the confidence, friendship and joy that comes from spending time outdoors. Every walk is relaxed, welcoming and packed with stories about the history, geology and wildlife that make the Peak District such a special place.

🌿 Website: Peak Outdoor Community (https://www.peakoutdoorcommunity.com/)

📱 Instagram: @peakoutdoorcommunity (https://www.instagram.com/peakoutdoorcommunity/) @trigsandteeth (https://www.instagram.com/trigsandteeth/)

🚗 Meeting Information

Meeting Point: Pendle Hill The Avenue Car ParkBarley New Rd, Barley, Burnley BB12 9LD, Google Maps (https://maps.app.goo.gl/xdGn1Dd4j9s8wGzo6)

Arrival Time: 15 minutes before the advertised start. Walk Starts: 8.30am

🎒 What to bring

Walking boots or shoes with good grip

Small rucksack

Waterproof jacket

Warm layers

Food/snacks

At least 1 litre of water

Personal medication

Optional extras:

Walking poles

Sit mat

Flask

🌿 TerrainA steep climb from the Barley side leads onto open moorland and the broad summit of Pendle Hill. Expect stone-pitched sections, uneven and potentially boggy ground, exposed weather and a sustained descent. Ogden Clough can be wet and slippery after rain.

🚻 Toilets

There are public toilets in the car park (with donation box). If needed during the walk, the leader can point out an appropriate discreet 'wild wee' spot.

🐶 Dogs

Well-behaved dogs are very welcome, provided they remain on a lead throughout the walk to keep both livestock and group members safe.

❤️ Safety

The aim of every Peak Outdoor Community walk is to create a welcoming, relaxed and enjoyable experience. We walk at a comfortable pace with plenty of opportunities to stop, chat and learn about the landscape.As with all outdoor activities, there are inherent risks. Participants are responsible for ensuring they are fit enough for the walk and should let us know about any relevant medical conditions before attending.All participants must complete a Medical & Disclaimer Form at least 24 hours before the event. All walks are led by qualified Mountain Leaders with Outdoor First Aid qualifications.Because this is an evening event, every participant must carry a working headtorch. The route may be shortened or changed if weather, visibility, group progress or fading light make the planned summit route unsuitable.

💷 Refund Policy

This walk is free to book on. However, places are limted and there is a waiting list so please cancel your place if you are no longer able to attend,

🌦️ And Finally...

Our walks go ahead in all seasons because some of the best adventures happen when we embrace the British weather! If conditions become unsafe due to severe weather, I'll rearrange the walk to another date. Please see our website for our full Terms & Conditions.

Description supplied by the event organiser.