Attractions and Places To See around Astley Village - Top 20

Astley Village and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit the Winter Hill Summit and TV Mast, which features a trig point and communication masts, and a memorial to a 1958 plane crash. Another significant site is the Rivington Pike Tower, a Grade 2 listed structure built in 1733 with superb views. Don't miss the Pigeon Tower (Dovecote Tower), Rivington, built by Lord Leverhulme in 1910. Further afield, the Astley Green Colliery Museum offers insights into the area's industrial heritage, and Damhouse (Astley Hall) is a listed building dating back to 1595.

Yes, the area boasts several natural attractions. Astley Park offers over 100 acres of woodlands, a lake, and play areas, perfect for walks and jogging. The Bridgewater Canal provides scenic towpaths for leisurely strolls. For a unique natural experience, Astley Moss is an important mossland site with diverse invertebrates, including ten species of dragonflies, and is undergoing conservation efforts to restore its peatland ecosystem. You can also find the tranquil The Japanese Garden in Rivington.

For breathtaking views, head to Rivington Pike Tower, a popular summit offering amazing panoramas. The Winter Hill Summit and TV Mast, at 456m, also provides extensive views across the West Pennine Hills. Even the third floor of the Pigeon Tower (Dovecote Tower), Rivington was designed as a sitting room with excellent views.

Absolutely! Astley Park is a great option with its play areas and open spaces. The Pigeon Tower (Dovecote Tower), Rivington and The Japanese Garden are both listed as family-friendly highlights. Additionally, Astley Hall Museum and Art Gallery in Chorley, while not directly in Astley Village, is a significant attraction with a beautiful park featuring lakes, gardens, woodland walks, playgrounds, and even a petting zoo, making it ideal for families.

There are numerous hiking opportunities. You can explore routes like the 'Rivington Pike Tower – Seven Arched Bridge loop from Chorley' (difficult, 22.3 km) or easier options such as the 'Geoff Witts Millennium Green loop from Euxton Balshaw Lane' (easy, 5.2 km) and the 'Astley Hall loop from Chorley' (easy, 3.4 km). For more hiking ideas, check out the full guide on Hiking around Astley Village.

Yes, the area offers several running trails. Popular routes include 'The War Horse loop from Buckshaw Parkway' (easy, 4.8 km), 'The Bobbin Mill loop from Buckshaw Parkway' (moderate, 6.2 km), and the 'Astley Hall loop from Chorley' (moderate, 7.3 km). You can find more running options in the Running Trails around Astley Village guide.

Beginners can enjoy several easy hikes. Options include 'The Top Lock Pub – The Malthouse Farm loop from Preston England Temple' (easy, 3.3 km), 'Fredericks Ice Cream Parlour loop from Chorley' (easy, 6 km), and 'The War Horse loop from Buckshaw Parkway' (easy, 6.4 km). For a comprehensive list of gentle routes, refer to the Easy hikes around Astley Village guide.

The Sheephouse Lane Climb is a popular route known for its stunning scenery and great views on a clear day. It's particularly favored by cyclists and those looking to enjoy the outdoors, featuring a steady climb with varying gradients.

Visitors frequently praise the superb views from spots like Rivington Pike Tower and the diverse trails available for walking and cycling. The historical significance of sites like Winter Hill Summit and the unique charm of places like The Japanese Garden are also highly appreciated. The area's blend of history, nature, and recreational opportunities makes it a versatile destination.

Yes, Astley Moss is a notable natural feature. It's an important mossland site on the edge of Chat Moss, characterized by a unique acid environment. This area supports a diverse range of invertebrates, including ten species of dragonflies, and is home to various bird species. Dedicated conservation efforts are underway to restore its peatland ecosystem, making it a fascinating spot for nature enthusiasts.

Astley Hall Museum and Art Gallery, located in Chorley, is a Grade I listed manor house renowned for its Jacobean plasterwork and period interiors. It's set within a beautiful park with lakes, gardens, and woodland walks. For more details on opening times and exhibitions, you can visit the Visit Northwest website.