Line © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL), checked by Global Adventurer.
The walk
From the Rigg Lane car park the walk follows the path east along Birk Bank, past old quarries, and climbs the edge of the fell to Clougha Pike, the rocky western end of the Bowland fells. The view stretches over Lancaster and Morecambe Bay to the Lake District and the Isle of Man on a clear day. The way back heads east along the top and down a shooting track to the north, then west along the foot of the fell to the car park.
It is 7.3 km with 324 m of ascent; allow about 2½ hours. The grade is Easy. The climb is steep and rough near the top.
Dogs are not allowed on the Clougha access land, except on the public footpath straight up to the Pike and back. The access land can be closed on some shooting days between August and December: check Natural England's access maps before you go. The fell top is boggy and featureless in mist.
The Rigg Lane car park at Birk Bank is free and small. There is no station near; the nearest is Lancaster, about 6 km away.
Route drawn by Global Adventurer along OpenStreetMap paths (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL), with figures worked out from it. Check the forecast and the ground on the day: paths change.
Good to know
- Up through Birk Bank to Clougha Pike, the western end of the Bowland fells
- Views over Lancaster, Morecambe Bay and the Lake District
- Back down a shooting track on the access land
- The fells are grouse moor in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Summits on the way
- Clougha Pike 410 m
Getting there
Start: Birk Bank car park, Rigg Lane · Free parking. 54.03772, -2.72451
Places to stay nearby
Rooms in and around Birk Bank car park: Booking.com → Expedia →
Affiliate links: if you book, Global Adventurer earns a small commission at no cost to you.
Paths change, and the weather decides the day. The line and figures come from OpenStreetMap and our own checks; take a map, check the forecast, and turn back if it isn't right.