M5, Burnley to Barnoldswick

This is a journey that becomes more serene with every bus stop past and where there's always fascination to be enjoyed looking out of the window.

Burnley is left behind - it's big brand shops and charming pubs, but very soon the suburbs bring with them independent shops and cobbled stone houses with well kept gardens, as the bus takes a gradual upwards gradient making its way towards Yorshire across the Pendle. The bus passes the expansive lawns of the Oaks Hotel on the right. Nelson approaches, with green pastures and hills on the left, overlooked by delightful houses and trees the opposite side of the road. There's some interesting shops surrounding Nelson, but the bus is soon on its way, past Masons Mill on the left as Colne emerges, with its absolutely blooming floral displays (the hanging baskets are fabulous), charming restaurants, trendy bars and shops for everyone's taste, including the fabulous West End Models on the right, opposite the bus stop by the railway station.

The pass passes Colne Market on the right and the elegant Union pub on the left - again with fantastic flowers lighting up the landscape. The bus leaves Colne and the countryside comes to life, farmyard animals and big beautiful reservoirs (the Upper and Lower Foulridge) either side of the road. The bus twists and turns slightly as it navigates its way between fields, past detached grey stone buildings, churches and the pretty Hare and Hounds pub, as well as a War Memorial in Skipton Road and the delightful Salterforth Cottage. The views are amazing over the hills, quite often with clouds barely scaling the tops as the bus overlooks Yorkshire - what's quirky though are that there are also palm trees dotted along this twisting route too! This really is rural Britain at its finest as we pass Kelbrook bowling green before Barnoldswick approaches, where there are more hanging baskets with flowers than ever before, particularly at the bus stop where folk need to use to make the return journey back to Burnley - the bus shelter is bedecked in floral beauty! It's a great finale to a fabulous journey!

Start your day in Burnley with a visit to Towneley Hall, a magnificent stately home set within Towneley Park. Stroll through its well-kept gardens, explore the local history exhibits, or take a quiet moment by the lake. Afterward, hop on the bus to Nelson. Here, take time to wander around the town’s market, where you can find an eclectic mix of stalls, or pop into the Pendle Heritage Centre to dive deeper into the local history, especially the infamous Pendle witches. If the weather’s good, the nearby Marsden Park is a lovely spot for a relaxing walk or a quick picnic.

Next, head to Colne. This lively town has a rich history tied to the textile industry, and a visit to the Colne Heritage Centre will give you a glimpse into that past. After soaking in some local history, it's time for a bite to eat. Make your way to The Red Lion, a charming pub that blends traditional and contemporary British cuisine. Their Sunday roast is renowned, but if you're there midweek, their hearty pies and fresh fish dishes are local favourites. The atmosphere is cosy, and the service friendly, perfect for a quick refuel before continuing your journey.

Once you're recharged, take the bus to Barnoldswick, where the charm of the town is hard to resist. Visit the quaint shops in the town centre, or take a walk along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, which runs right through the town. If you're into history, the Barnoldswick Museum is well worth a visit to learn about the town’s industrial roots, particularly its aviation history as the birthplace of the Bristol Boxkite. End your day with a peaceful stroll up to the viewpoint near the town for stunning views across the Lancashire countryside, offering a perfect end to your day.