Darwen is a traditional Lancashire town set against the backdrop of the West Pennine Moors, with a strong connection to both industry and landscape. Its history as a mill town is still part of the town’s identity, even welcoming Mahatma Gandhi during his visit to Lancashire in 1931. Today, the town centre is home to a Victorian Market Hall dating back to 1871, where a mix of stalls offers everything from everyday essentials to local goods.
The surrounding countryside is a key part of what makes Darwen special, with routes leading out into open moorland and wooded valleys. Sunnyhurst Wood provides miles of well-marked paths, leading up to Darwen Tower, built to mark Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee and offering wide views across the area. Closer to town, spaces like Bold Venture Park and Whitehall Park offer easier walks, while golf courses, reservoirs and local spots to eat and stay add to what’s on offer around Darwen.
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Darwen Festival of Fun Returns for Sixth Year with Free Family Day of Live Entertainment, Markets and Street Food Darwen Market Square to host a full day of performances, workshops, artisan stalls on 29th August 2026
Lancashire has some of the best country walking in England, from short, gentle rambles to long distance treks allowing you to enjoy some of the best views and vistas the county has to offer.
There’s no better way to enjoy the spring sun than sharing a delicious picnic with friends or family. Take a look at some of Lancashire's best picnic spots
A majestic Victorian manor house lovingly transformed into a traditional country house hotel.
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Date: 24th Oct 2026
Join a night of broad way hits and movie songs. Expect to hear solos, duets and ensemble versions of songs from popular shows.
Read MoreDate: 29th Aug 2026
A free family festival in Darwen, featuring live entertainment, street performers, food and music.
Read MoreDates: 29th Jun 2026 - 6th Sept 2026
Stop scrolling, Go Ape.
Read MoreDuration1 hour 30 mins
Distance2 miles
On a clear day the Isle of Man and the hills of North Wales can be seen from Darwen Tower. The Tower celebrates Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee in 1897 and to many local people it also celebrated the freeing of Darwen Moor in the previous year.
Read MoreDuration1 hour 30 mins
Distance2 miles
This circular walk takes in some fantastic views of the surrounding countryside from Darwen Moors.
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