The best walks and hikes around Bretherton
4.5
(493)
5,331
hikers
389
hikes
Hiking around Bretherton offers a network of trails primarily characterized by flat, low-lying terrain, often following the courses of canals and rivers. The region features open rural landscapes, agricultural fields, and pathways alongside waterways like the Leeds and Liverpool Canal and the River Douglas. Elevation changes are minimal, making many routes accessible for various fitness levels.
Best hiking trails around Bretherton
- The most popular hiking route is Rufford Old Hall – Leeds and Liverpool Canal loop from St Mary's Church, a 7.7 miles (12.5 km) trail that takes 3 hours 10 minutes to complete. This moderate route explores historical grounds and follows a scenic canal path.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is The Wheatsheaf Pub – Londis Shop Coffee loop from Croston, an easy 2.7 miles (4.3 km) path. This route offers a pleasant village walk, connecting local amenities with gentle, flat terrain.
- Local hikers also love the Tarleton Lock – River Douglas Footpath loop from Much Hoole, a 3.1 miles (5.0 km) trail leading through riverside paths and past a lock, often completed in about 1 hour 16 minutes.
- Hiking around Bretherton is defined by tranquil canal towpaths, meandering river routes, and open rural landscapes. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and some more challenging routes, catering to different ability levels.
- The routes in Bretherton are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 470 reviews. More than 5,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Bretherton's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
4.7
(9)
53
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
45
hikers
4.31km
01:06
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.6
(7)
27
hikers
5.02km
01:16
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
24
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
14
hikers
9.52km
02:24
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Bank Bridge also known as Tarleton Bridge is an English Heritage, Grade II listed structure as is the Bank Warehouse adjacent to the bridge situated on the Leeds Liverpool Canal Rufford Branch.
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"Rufford Old Hall is a National Trust property in Rufford, Lancashire, in north-west England. Built in the late fifteenth or early sixteenth centuries for the Hesketh family, only the great hall survives from the original structure. A brick-built wing in the Jacobean style was added in 1661, at right angles to the great hall, and a third wing was added in the 1820s. The hall is designated by English Heritage as a Grade I listed building, and the cottage, coach house and stables in the courtyard at the rear of the hall are designated Grade II." Source: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rufford_Old_Hall You can find out more about opening times, events, attractions and facilities here; https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/liverpool-lancashire/rufford-old-hall
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lovely village to stop lots of cafes
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The bridge is in the middle of nowhere so don't expect coffee and cake unless you bring your own! Nice road for cycling though linking Mere Brow and Croston - always quiet and traffic free.
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Agreed on the beauty of the area but if you arrive at the bridge and find it empty, take your pics and vids quickly because the racket caused by cars passing over it is absolutely awful/unbearable. Not sure who designed it with loose individual metal slats in mind but the clatter means a re-think is required! The central rubber 'carpet' (sections of which are missing) might mildly dim noise generated by cyclists but is totally redundant for the main culprit: the car. Speaking of which: a decision needs to be made on whether the lane and bridge should remain accessible by car because at the moment (and with burgeoning sizes of vehicles in future), the purpose of the cycleway is somewhat diminished when riders have to constantly stop while two cars squirm past each other or to allow one to overtake. Perhaps it was just busier on the day I visited but it got very silly indeed!
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Croston was founded in the 7th century when St Aidan arrived at the riverside settlements. In the absence of a church, a cross was erected as a place of worship. The name is derived from the two Old English words 'cross' and 'tūn' (town/homestead/village) and is unique to the village. The parish of Croston was formerly far larger than it is today. It included Chorley, Much Hoole, Rufford, Bretherton, Mawdesley, Tarleton, Hesketh Bank, Bispham, Walmer Bridge and Ulnes Walton. These became independent parishes as a result of a series of separations between 1642 and 1821.[2] A charter granted by Edward I in 1283 permitted an annual medieval fair and market to be held on the village green. Pre-20th Century maps also depict a castle which is believed to have been of a wooden construction because there is no evidence of a stone structure.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Bretherton?
There are nearly 400 hiking trails around Bretherton, offering a wide range of options for all skill levels. The majority of these routes are characterized by flat, low-lying terrain, often following canals and rivers.
Are there many easy hiking trails suitable for beginners in Bretherton?
Yes, Bretherton is ideal for beginners and those seeking easy walks. Over 230 of the available routes are rated as easy, featuring minimal elevation changes and well-defined paths along waterways and through rural landscapes. A good example is The Wheatsheaf Pub – Londis Shop Coffee loop from Croston, an easy 2.7-mile (4.3 km) path.
Are the hiking trails around Bretherton suitable for families with children?
Absolutely. Many of the trails around Bretherton are very family-friendly due to their flat terrain and scenic canal or riverside paths. Routes like the Tarleton Lock – River Douglas Footpath loop from Much Hoole offer pleasant, manageable distances for children.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails near Bretherton?
Most hiking trails in Bretherton are dog-friendly, especially those along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal and River Douglas. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, particularly when passing through agricultural fields or near livestock, and to be mindful of local signage.
Are there many circular hiking routes in Bretherton?
Yes, Bretherton offers a good selection of circular hiking routes, perfect for starting and ending your walk in the same location. Many popular trails, such as the Bank Hall loop from St Mary's Church, are designed as loops, allowing you to explore the area without retracing your steps.
What interesting sights or landmarks can I see while hiking near Bretherton?
While hiking near Bretherton, you can discover several interesting sights. Highlights include the historic Croston Stone Cross and Village Centre, the tranquil Yarrow Valley Country Park, and the Martin Mere Wetland Centre, which is a haven for wildlife. You might also encounter charming features like the Eyes Lane Metal Bridge.
Where can I find parking for hiking trails in Bretherton?
While specific parking areas aren't always designated for every trailhead, you can typically find parking in village centers like Bretherton or Croston, or at popular starting points for canal walks. Always check local signage for any parking restrictions.
Are there any pubs or cafes along the hiking routes in Bretherton?
Yes, you'll find several opportunities for refreshments. The region features charming villages with local pubs and cafes. For instance, the route The Wheatsheaf Pub – Londis Shop Coffee loop from Croston directly connects to local amenities, including a pub and a coffee shop.
What is the best time of year to hike in Bretherton?
Bretherton's flat terrain makes it suitable for hiking year-round. Spring and summer offer lush green landscapes and pleasant weather for canal and riverside walks. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, while winter walks can be serene, though paths might be muddy, especially after rain.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Bretherton?
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience in Bretherton, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 470 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil canal towpaths, the meandering river routes, and the peaceful, open rural landscapes that define the area's charm.
How long do hikes typically take around Bretherton?
Hikes around Bretherton vary in length and duration. Many easy routes can be completed in 1-2 hours, such as the Tarleton Lock – River Douglas Footpath loop from Much Hoole which takes about 1 hour 16 minutes. Longer, moderate trails like the Rufford Old Hall – Leeds and Liverpool Canal loop from St Mary's Church can take around 3 hours 10 minutes.
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