It's Your Choice - Research

Research taken from www.chorley.gov.uk

Chorley has much to offer with beautiful countryside, from the rugged magnificence of the West Pennine Moors to the beauty of Rivington, Chorley's "mini lake district".

There is scenic woodland and grassland in the popular Yarrow Valley Country Park and Cuerden Valley Park plus hundreds of acres of  Astley Park close to the heart of the town centre and the Leeds Liverpool Canal - its yours to enjoy.

Walking

There are a series of five special Chorley Walking leaflets with walks to suit the experienced rambler or the gentle Sunday stroller. With rich wildlife, fascinating historic features and good pubs along the way these walks are a feast for the senses. You can download free copies of the Chorley walks here.

• The Chorley Circular (9 miles) 

• Botany Bay Circular (11 miles) 
• Brindle to Withnell Fold Nature Reserve (4 miles) 
• Whittle-le-Woods and The Walton Summit Branch (6 Miles)  
• Rufford and Mawdesley (6 Miles) 

Cycling

The rolling countryside to the West of  the Borough offers idyllic cycling routes along quiet country lanes passing through picture postcard villages such as Croston and Mawdesley.  Whilst to the East the hills of the West Pennine Moors offer routes that are both scenic and challenging. Click here for information on cycle routes.

Canals

The Leeds Liverpool Canal runs right through the borough and what was once a symbol of Chorley's strength during the industrial revolution, is now transformed into an attractive route for narrow boats, walkers and cyclists rich in wildlife. The Canal is the longest in the country and is linked to 2,000 miles of inland waterways. Recently the Ribble Link was opened which joins the Leeds Liverpool to the Lancaster Canal. For further information click here to access the British Waterways site.

For cruises, try:

• Canal Cruises: Boatel Party Cruises 01257 273269
• Canal Boat Hire: L & L Cruises. 01257 480825

Rivington

With its rugged hills, picturesque reservoirs and woodland, Rivington is Chorley's mini lake district, with a natural beauty to rival the real thing. The famous Rivington Pike, an ancient beacon to warn of invasion, is a landmark that dominates the local landscape. However, what makes Rivington different is the influence of Lord Leverhulme, founder of Lever brothers, who created a number of unique features which he gave to the local people. These include, the Japanese Terraced Gardens on the Northwest slopes of the Pike, a beautiful real life secret garden and the Replica of the ruined Liverpool Castle.

Rivington Barns

These unique Saxon Tithe Barns are well worth a visit. The Great House Barn is open daily with a tea/coffee shop, also serving light meals. The Hall Barn is famous for its nights out, with a variety of special entertainment, including Bavarian Nights, Barn Dances and Medieval Banquets. It is also available for functions. The Hall Barn is open every Sunday and hosts an antiques fair on alternate Wednesdays