The sun well and truly here in the North, so we’re eager to get out and about to make the most of the weather – before it inevitably turns (I know, hard to imagine right now). Fortunately, a spectacular green oasis awaits right on the doorstep of Greater Manchester. Nestled on the border of Bolton and Chorley, Rivington covers a sprawling landscape featuring a picturesque village, expansive woodlands, wide-open spaces, and multiple reservoirs.
A rich local history
The area boasts a fascinating heritage, largely thanks to the famous terraced gardens created by the renowned Lord Leverhulme. As the founder of Unilever and a prominent Bolton industrialist, his legacy is woven throughout the local area, lending his title to landmarks like Leverhulme Park.
There are also plenty of legends and feats of folklore surrounding this vast area, not least the story of the Two Lads – a mysterious monument to which is being rebuilt by the local authorities thanks to their local impact.
Reservoirs and scenic trails
Rivington is home to an impressive seven reservoirs—including Upper and Lower Rivington, Anglezarke, and Yarrow—which provide the perfect backdrop for some fantastic, leafy walking routes along the water.
- Family-friendly paths: Navigate thoughtfully cleared trails that weave through lush woodlands and vibrant fields.
- Variety of routes: Choose from a range of lengths and difficulties to suit any strolling pace.
- Endless activities: During the spring and summer months, enjoy kayaking and sailing on the water, or head to the local Go Ape site to zip-line and swing through the canopy to your heart’s content. Plentiful maps and signage ensure you won’t get lost, even when you feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere.
Rewarding hikes and historic landmarks
No trip is complete without tackling Rivington Pike on Winter Hill, located in the West Pennine Moors. The trek up is well worth the effort, rewarding hikers with breathtaking, sweeping views across Wales and the North of England. Rivington Pike Tower is the ultimate spot for a celebratory, albeit incredibly windy, photo op! On your descent, be sure to explore:
- The magical Harry Potter-esque Pigeon Tower.
- The exquisitely landscaped Japanese and Italian gardens, complete with stunning ponds and unique architectural features.
Delightful dining and drinking spots
The local culinary scene offers a fantastic mix of cafes, eateries, and street food, and it just keeps getting better. Look out for:
- Spring Cottage & Great House Barn: Perfect for a charming lunch, afternoon tea, or a simple brew and a chat, surrounded by elegant foliage and quaint design.
- Curley’s Dining Room: Head down into Horwich after your hike to refuel with hearty fish and chips, pies, and burgers, all while getting cosy and overlooking Curley’s picturesque fishery.
- The Rivington: This beloved local staple sits above one of the reservoirs beside the bowling green. Run by an incredibly friendly team, the modest cafe serves up everything from ice cream and cake to sandwiches and hot drinks—ideal for a quick pit stop after chasing the dog or getting too competitive at bowls.
- Rivington Brewing Co: Situated just across the reservoir, this local micro brewery and taproom is a stellar addition to the area. Expect great craft beer, delicious casual eats, and an unbeatable outdoor space that turns into an absolute paradise when the weather picks up. It’s the ultimate social hub for a post-walk catch-up with mates.
A quintessential English village
Finally, take a drive or a stroll through Rivington Village. Dating back to an early settlement between 620-650 AD, it exudes that wonderfully warm, historic charm typical of an old English village. You can even find original wooden stocks—a relic of historical public humiliation—still standing proudly on the green outside the village hall.
Whether you want to conquer a massive hike or simply relax with a pint, Rivington is absolutely packed with things to do. At just a 45-minute drive from Manchester, it’s a brilliant day out to capitalise on the sunshine—or even brave on a grim day.
