Peel Park, Castle Clough Wood and Leeds and Liverpool Canal Loop

Starting your adventure near Lancashire, England, this 14 km (approximately 8.7 miles) loop trail offers a delightful mix of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and moderate physical challenge. With an elevation gain of around 300 meters (approximately 984 feet), this trail is rated as medium difficulty, making it suitable for hikers with some experience.

Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can either drive or use public transport. If you're driving, set your GPS to Peel Park, Accrington, which is a convenient starting point. For those using public transport, the nearest train station is Accrington Station. From there, it's a short bus ride or a 20-minute walk to Peel Park.

Trail Overview The trail begins at Peel Park, a lovely green space perfect for a warm-up stroll. As you start your hike, you'll be greeted by well-maintained paths and a variety of flora. The park itself is a great spot for bird-watching, so keep your binoculars handy.

#### Peel Park to Castle Clough Wood After about 2 km (1.2 miles) of relatively flat terrain, you'll enter Castle Clough Wood. This section of the trail is more shaded and features a gentle ascent. The wood is known for its rich biodiversity, including oak, ash, and beech trees. During spring and summer, the forest floor is carpeted with wildflowers, making it a picturesque segment of your hike.

#### Historical Significance Castle Clough Wood is steeped in history. The area was once part of a medieval hunting ground, and you might come across remnants of old stone walls and pathways. These relics offer a glimpse into the region's past, adding an educational element to your hike.

Leeds and Liverpool Canal Around the 7 km (4.3 miles) mark, you'll reach the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. This section is relatively flat and offers a stark contrast to the wooded areas you've just traversed. The canal is a marvel of 18th-century engineering and played a crucial role in the Industrial Revolution. As you walk along the towpath, you'll see old stone bridges and perhaps even a narrowboat or two.

#### Wildlife and Scenery The canal is a hotspot for wildlife. Look out for kingfishers, herons, and even the occasional otter. The waterway is lined with reeds and wildflowers, providing a serene backdrop for this part of your journey.

Final Stretch The last 3 km (1.9 miles) of the trail loop back towards Peel Park. This section involves a moderate ascent, bringing your total elevation gain to around 300 meters. As you approach the park, you'll pass through open fields and meadows, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Navigation For navigation, it's highly recommended to use the HiiKER app, which provides detailed maps and real-time updates. This will ensure you stay on track and can fully enjoy the diverse landscapes and historical landmarks along the way.

This trail offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and moderate physical challenge, making it a rewarding experience for any hiker.