A local monument is set to be rebuilt this summer, and it’s one that’s steeped in folklore and mystery. The Two Lads landmark sits on the steep climb up to Winter Hill in Bolton, on the section of Wilders Moor known as Crooked Edge Hill. It lies within the Horwich town boundary and is culturally significant to the local community, forming part of the Smithills Estate, currently owned by the Woodland Trust.
The cairns have been recorded on maps since 1787. Early maps show two cairns, though many local people will remember only one large cairn, as the second was not rebuilt until 1970. Today, the site consists of one large cairn, one demolished cairn, and a third small pile of stones some distance away.
Historic England Research Records (Monument Number 43445) describe the site as “Two Lads”, noting it as a confused heap of stones that appears to be the remains of one or more cairns. It is not a Scheduled Monument.
Why restoration is needed
The Woodland Trust has decided to rebuild the cairns to improve safety, conserve their historical significance, and protect them for future generations. The project is supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
The current structures are unstable, unsafe, and have been repeatedly vandalised and rebuilt. The large cairn is fenced off due to safety concerns and does not meet current health and safety standards, with long-term action required to deter further vandalism and make the area safe for visitors.
What the restoration will include
Following public consultation, a design has been agreed that draws on several historical iterations rather than restoring the cairns to a single point in time. Key elements include:
- Beehive-shaped cairns: Traditional Lancashire cairns were built in a beehive shape. Over time, Two Lads has flattened due to repeated demolition and rebuilding. The project will restore the classic beehive form, making the cairns sturdier and more visible in the landscape.
- Rebuilding the original second cairn: The second cairn once stood beside the current large cairn and is now marked only by rubble. It will be rebuilt in its last known position so that “Two Lads” once again appear in the landscape.
- Internal cement for stability: Minimal cement will be used inside the structures to improve stability and deter vandalism. It will not be visible externally.
- Mounded drystone wall: A traditional Lancashire drystone mounded wall will be constructed around the cairns. It will be low enough to avoid feeling restrictive but high enough to discourage climbing. Coping stones will be added to increase durability and discourage sitting. The wall will also support moorland restoration.
- External wall planting: An external mound of organic material will be planted with heather and moss. Over time, this will blend the wall into the landscape and support the wider moorland ecosystem. The aim is for the wall to be hidden from view when looking up from below Winter Hill, preserving the skyline silhouette.
Will the cairns still be visible on Crooked Edge Hill?
Yes. The cairns will not be made smaller; they are likely to be taller and will remain clearly visible above the wall on the Winter Hill skyline.
Project timeline
Dates may vary depending on weather and bird surveys.
- 15–31 July: Deconstruction of the current cairns and preparation of the site
- 3–14 August: Community archaeological dig led by Team Civic with volunteers
- 8–9 August: Community open days for public participation
- 17 August to October (or later): Rebuilding of the cairns and wall with a local dry stone waller and community volunteers
Temporary closures and restricted access will be in place during the works for safety. Public rights of way near the site will not be affected. Once complete, full access will be restored.
Environmental considerations
As a conservation charity, the Woodland Trust prioritises environmental protection. The restoration methods have been approved by the local authority, with consultation from Natural England regarding the West Pennine Moors SSSI designation.
Bird surveys are being conducted by Appleton’s, and only peat‑friendly machinery is permitted. To minimise ground disturbance, the archaeological trenches will be reused for the cairn and wall foundations.
Restoration approach
Professionals will take great care to protect original stones and materials. Replacement stones will be sourced from a local quarry where needed. The restoration process includes:
- Assessment: Detailed examination of the cairns and surrounding area
- Stabilisation: Reinforcement to prevent further damage
- Reconstruction: Replacement of missing or damaged stones with closely matched materials
- Preservation: Maintaining historical authenticity while improving resilience to weathering
How the community can get involved
- Share stories and raise awareness of the cairns’ heritage
- Complete the Two Lads Cairn Visitor Survey
- Volunteer opportunities
