Nearby
Things to do.
Bolton is only 12 miles from Manchester so you can easily access a multitude of interesting places and activities Manchester has to offer within 25 minutes.
Having said all that Bolton stands on its own when it comes to things to do and see and here’s just a short suggestion list:
Wayoh Reservoir.
Edgworth, Lancashire, England
This walk is by far our (and our dogs) favourite place to stretch the legs and relax. Wayoh Reservoir is near the village of Edgworth and was built in 1876 to supply water to Bolton. A circular path runs around the reservoir and is mostly away from road traffic and livestock - the path crosses the road in two places.
It’s an easy walk, but the path is stony and can get muddy in places. There aren’t many facilities on the walk but there is a cafe in the Edgworth village you can de-tour halfway through your walk or the lovely Strawbury Duck pub nearby.
Turton Tower.
Chapeltown Rd, Chapeltown, Bolton BL7 0HG, United Kingdom
A great family day out - Turton Tower is a manor house in Chapeltown in North Turton. It’s a scheduled ancient monument and a grade I listed building. It was built in the late Middle Ages as a two-storey stone pele tower which was altered and enlarged mainly in the late 16th century.
It is built on high ground 600 feet above sea level about four miles north of Bolton. A north wing and additions were made during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I and alterations were made during the early years of Queen Victoria.
Jumbles Country Park.
Bradshaw Rd, Bolton BL2 4JS, United Kingdom
Another must-go for nature and great walks, especially for our four-legged friends. This country park is in the Bradshaw Valley, around 4 miles north of Bolton town centre. It opened in 1971 following the construction of Jumbles Reservoir, the walk takes you around the reservoir and gives the dogs plenty of opportunities for a quick swim in the water to cool off.
There’s no playground there, but there are toilets, a car park, an information centre overlooking the water and a cafe where you can get some ice cream, coffee, and cake.
Rivington Pike.
Bolton BL6 6RU, United Kingdom
Stunning hikes and breathtaking countryside views are only minutes away from a quaint town - Horwich. The Pike Tower is a famous local landmark located at the summit of Rivington and can be easily spotted from parts of Bolton.
This area is very popular with hikers and mountain bike enthusiasts but it’s not just about the Pike - there is also Liverpool Castle, Pigeon Tower, Rivington Terraced Gardens, and Lever’s Bridge - all worth seeing. And if you like to get your hands dirty Go Ape Rivington promises that and more!
Bolton Museum Art Gallery & Aquarium.
Le Mans Cres, Bolton BL1 1SE, United Kingdom
If you enjoy culture, art, history, or fish (Bolton Aquarium has over 70 varieties from across the world) this place should definitely make your to-visit list. Ranging from Egyptian mummies to local history and wildlife, Bolton's collection has something for everyone.
With family-friendly events and exhibitions available all year round, you can learn about the fascinating story of Bolton, its places, and people, alongside displays of Art, Egyptology, Archaeology, Botany, and Zoology. You’re also just around the corner from a shopping centre and cafes.
Smithills Hall.
Smithills Dean Rd, Bolton BL1 7NP, United Kingdom
Smithills Hall is a Grade I listed manor house and a scheduled monument. It stands on the slopes of the West Pennine Moors above Bolton at a height of 500 feet, three miles northwest of the town centre. It occupies a defensive site near Astley and Raveden Brooks. One of the oldest manor houses in the northwest of England, its oldest parts, including the great hall, date from the 15th century, and it has since been altered and extended particularly the west part. This stunning property is open to the public.
