The Easter school holidays are upon us and where better to take your children that out for a great walk.
Bolton has so much to offer in the way of walks and here are some of the great places to take in some exercise and fresh air.
As a leading Bolton Estate Agent we know that these areas are also a great part of living in the Bolton area, important to know if you are looking to sell your property or are even looking to buy a property in the Bolton area.
The town of Bolton is nestled in Greater Manchester and it offers a plethora of scenic walks that cater to both casual strollers and avid hikers. From the tranquil reservoirs to fabulous historic landmarks, the area boasts some diverse landscapes waiting to be explored. Here are some of the top local walks to reviews in and around Bolton:
1. Rivington Pike and Gardens
Rivington Pike, without doubt, stands as one of Bolton’s most iconic landmarks. The walk up to the summit provides such amazing panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Most walks start from Rivington Hall Barn, where the trail meanders through the fabulous terraced gardens, which are a testament to Lord Leverhulme’s vision. As the wall progresses, walkers can explore the Japanese Gardens, Italian Lake, and the replica of Liverpool Castle. The walk up the Pike is moderate, making it accessible for most fitness levels. If taking a walk up on clear days, the summit offers views stretching as far as the Isle of Man.
2. Jumbles Country Park
This park is located to the north of Bolton and centres centres around the Jumbles Reservoir. The circular walk around the reservoir is approximately a walk of 2.5 miles and is relatively flat, making it a great walk, suitable for families and casual walkers. The path progresses through woodlands and offers amazing opportunities to spot local wildlife. At the end of your walk there is a the Jumbles Café near the car park, which provides a perfect spot to relax post-walk.
3. Turton and Entwistle Reservoirs
For those walkers seeking a longer trek, a great walk is the combined walk around Turton and Entwistle Reservoirs, which offers a serene experience. Starting the walk from the Entwistle Reservoir car park, the trail encompasses both reservoirs, covering a distance of approximately 5 miles. Both paths are well-maintained, passing through areas of dense woodlands and open spaces. if you are a bird enthusiast, the you will really appreciate the diverse avian population in the area.
4. Smithills Estate
This area is managed by the Woodland Trust. Smithills Estate is Bolton’s largest heritage site. The estate offers a variety of trails that traverse all sorts of areas such as moorlands, woodlands, and farmland. One very notable route is the climb up Winter Hill, which, standing at 1,496 feet, provides such fabulous expansive views over Bolton and beyond. The estate is also very rich in history, and it is interesting to see the evident remnants of ancient settlements and industrial archaeology.
5. Moses Gate Country Park
This park is situated to the south of Bolton. Moses Gate Country Park spans over 750 acres. The park features an array of woodlands, wetlands, and grasslands. The main attraction at this park is the trio of lodges, which are Rock Hall, Crompton, and Darcy, which reflect the remnants of the area’s industrial past. The circular walk around these three lodges is approximately 3 miles and is just teeming with wildlife, including swans, herons, and kingfishers.
6. Leverhulme Park and the Eagley Brook Trail
Leverhulme Park is Bolton’s largest park and it offers a combination of both formal gardens and natural woodlands. The Eagley Brook Trail starts from the park and follows the brook through a ovely wooded valley, leading to an area of historic interest – Eagley Mills. This walk is approximately 4-mile walk and is relatively flat. It offers insights into Bolton’s industrial heritage amidst some lovely natural beauty.
7. Queens Park and the River Croal Trail
This park is located close to Bolton’s town centre. It is a Victorian-era park with fabulous manicured lawns, stunning ornate fountains, and a beautiful picturesque lake. From the park the River Croal Trail following the river through beautiful wooded areas. The combined walk is approximately around 2 miles and is suitable for all ages of the family.
8. Seven Acres Country Park
Seven Acres Country Park is a Local Nature Reserve and is located between the areas of Tonge and Breightmet. The park encompasses a range of diverse habitats, including open water, heathland and woodland. Walkers in this area can enjoy trails that wind through these varied landscapes, offering opportunities to spot well over 70 species of birds and an array of butterflies and dragonflies.
9. Barrow Bridge and Walker Fold
Starting from the village of Barrow Bridge, this walk takes you through the scenic Smithills Estate. The trail passes through different terrain such as woodlands and open moorlands. and also offers amazing offers views of Winter Hill. This walk is approximately 5 miles and walkers need to be aware it includes some steep sections, making it moderately challenging.
10. Hall i’ th’ Wood and Tonge Trail
This urban walk combines both history and nature. Starting from the Hall i’ th’ Wood Museum, this trail follows a walk through Bradshaw Brook and then through Tonge Park and into the Seven Acres Country Park. The route is approximately 3 miles.
It is important to remember when embarking on these walks such as these that it is advisable to ensure you are wearing appropriate footwear. Trails and walks such as these can become muddy, especially after if it has been recently raining. It is important to always check local conditions and access rights before setting out on the walk, and consider carrying a map or even a GPS device to aid navigation.