The best walks and hikes around Astley Village

Yes, the area is well-suited for circular hikes. Many routes combine paths through local parks with sections along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal or the River Douglas, allowing you to finish back where you started without retracing your steps. For a shorter, accessible loop, consider the The Top Lock Pub – The Malthouse Farm loop from Great Knowley, which is a gentle walk through the countryside.

The terrain around Astley Village is quite varied. You'll find many flat, well-maintained paths, especially along the canal towpaths and within Astley Park. Other routes feature gentle gradients as they meander through woodlands and open fields. For more of a challenge, some trails extend towards the West Pennine Moors, offering steeper ascents and more rugged ground.

Definitely. Astley Park is a fantastic starting point for families, with dedicated trails, a sensory garden, and plenty of open space. The paths are generally easy and engaging for younger walkers. For a slightly longer but still manageable adventure, the trails within Yarrow Valley Country Park are also very popular with families.

Most trails in the area are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep your dog on a lead, especially near farmland with livestock or in designated park areas. The expansive grounds of Cuerden Valley Park and the paths along the River Douglas are great for walks with a canine companion.

There are several welcoming pubs in and around the area perfect for relaxing after a walk. Many hikers enjoy visiting the pubs near the Top Lock on the canal, which are conveniently located at the start or end of several popular routes. The Red Lion in Astley Village is also a well-regarded option for a post-hike meal or drink.

Yes, you can find some lovely waterside features on local hikes. Duxbury Weir is a popular spot for a scenic walk along running water. For a more distinct waterfall, a short trip to Roddlesworth Waterfall near Tockholes offers a great photo opportunity and can be incorporated into a longer moorland hike.

For those seeking elevation and rewarding views, the trails heading towards the West Pennine Moors are your best bet. The Rivington Pike Tower – Seven Arched Bridge loop from Chorley is a demanding hike that rewards you with panoramic views from the iconic tower. You can also find challenging terrain around Denham Hill Quarry.

For walks centered around the village, the main car park for Astley Park is the most convenient option. Yarrow Valley Country Park and Cuerden Valley Park also have their own dedicated parking areas. For routes starting along the canal, you can often find smaller parking spots near the locks, such as at Top Lock, Wheelton.

Yes, Astley Village and the surrounding area are accessible by public transport. Chorley is the main hub, with a train station and numerous bus routes that stop near the entrances to Astley Park and other trailheads. This makes it easy to plan a day of hiking without needing a car.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the variety of scenery, from the peaceful canal towpaths and ancient woodlands to the open moorland views. The well-maintained and clearly marked public footpaths are also frequently mentioned as a major plus.

There are over 450 hiking routes to explore in the region. This collection includes everything from short, easy strolls within parks to long-distance treks, with a good balance of easy and moderate options to suit most fitness levels.

Many trails incorporate local points of interest. Some popular spots include:

• Astley Park: A local favourite, featuring woodlands, a lake, and the historic Astley Hall.
• Duxbury Weir: A scenic spot on the River Douglas, perfect for a peaceful waterside walk.
• Withnell Nature Trail: An easy walk along a former railway line, offering a mix of woodland and heathland.
• Roddlesworth Waterfall: A picturesque waterfall that can be included in hikes on the nearby moors.