Attractions and places to see around Croston, a village in Lancashire, England, offer a mix of historical sites and natural landscapes. The area is characterized by its position along the River Yarrow and features a blend of preserved historical architecture and accessible outdoor spaces. Visitors can explore cultural landmarks within the village and natural areas in the surrounding countryside.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
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Yarrow Valley Country Park was first established in 1987 on land previously used for bleaching, dyeing, calico printing, and mining. Once industrial activity had ended, the site lay derelict for 30 years until the late 1980's when Chorley Council acquired the site. Yarrow Valley Country Park, a 700-acre facility run by Chorley Council, includes a cafรฉ (treeface) built using Heritage Lottery funds. There is a play area for children, with a dog protection order, and also an angling agreement at Yarrow Valley Country Park, which gives the fishing rights at Birkacre to Wigan & District Angling Association (WDAA). Yarrow Valley Country Park has been awarded Green Flag status since 2004. The 'park' is used by (dog) walkers, runners & cyclists. Share with care :)
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Green route, make sure follow the map as we didnโt and got lost
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lovely village to stop lots of cafes
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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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This park has so much to offer beautiful lakes waterfalls many different routes which is great for the kids and dog walkers
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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 'tลซn' (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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Traditional Country Pub Serving Traditional Homemade/ Pub Food.4 Cask Ales. Open Daily Bar 12-12. Our Current Food Serving Times Are Wed-Sat 12:00 - 2:00 pm & 5:00 - pm, Sun 12- Hot Beverages served all day. All welcome, families and dogs,no dress code! Disabled access. Large car park and separate beer gardens. Quiz & Bingo every Tues starts 9.30pm.
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Great canal side pub dating from 1837, when it served as offices for the Leeds and Liverpool freight services. Traditional pub with separate areas and home cooked food. Pill box beer often served as memorial to WWII. There is a lookout post outside. Twice yearly military displays and annual classic bus services prevail, with themed beers for the occasion. This is a popular pub with families, walkers and cyclists, in excellent rural setting with an outside garden with eating area.
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Croston is rich in history. You can visit the medieval St Michael and All Angels Church, explore the well-preserved 17th-century cottages on Church Street, and see the 15th-century Cobbled Packhorse Bridge over the River Yarrow. The Croston Stone Cross and Village Centre itself is a historical site, featuring the Stone Cross and the historic Grapes pub. Other notable sites include the Croston Old School and the 18th-century handloom weavers' cottages on Drinkhouses Lane.
Yes, the River Yarrow flows through the village, offering scenic views. For outdoor activities, The 'Moss' in Croston provides a circular route through farmland, popular for walking and jogging. Just a short distance away, the Yarrow Valley Country Park is a substantial 700-acre facility with lakes, waterfalls, and various trails. The nearby Martin Mere Wetland Centre is also a significant natural attraction and bird sanctuary.
The surrounding countryside offers ample opportunities for walking and cycling. You can explore various routes along open fields, footpaths, and riverbanks. For specific trails, consider the hiking routes around Croston, or if you prefer cycling, there are many cycling routes available. The Yarrow Valley Country Park also has numerous trails suitable for walking and dog walking.
Absolutely. The Yarrow Valley Country Park is a great option, featuring a children's play area and easy routes suitable for families. The Martin Mere Wetland Centre is another excellent family-friendly destination, offering a chance to observe wildlife. Within the village, the Croston Stone Cross and Village Centre is pleasant for a stroll, and The Croft is a hidden gem with wooden swings for children.
The Eyes Lane Metal Bridge offers a lovely stop to admire views over the canal. The River Yarrow, particularly near the Cobbled Packhorse Bridge and The Grapes pub, provides picturesque scenes. For broader landscape views, The 'Moss' in Croston is noted for stunning views at sunrise or sunset over farmland.
Yes, Croston village has several pubs and restaurants. The historic Grapes pub overlooks the River Yarrow and the ancient cross. A popular canal-side option is Heatons Bridge, a traditional country pub dating from 1837, known for its home-cooked food, cask ales, and family-friendly atmosphere with an outdoor garden. The Yarrow Valley Country Park also has a cafรฉ on site.
Croston is charming year-round, but spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring the village's historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities along the River Yarrow and in the surrounding countryside. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, while winter can offer a quiet, picturesque experience, especially around the historic village centre.
Many of the outdoor areas around Croston are suitable for dogs. The 'Moss' in Croston is a popular spot for dog walking. The Yarrow Valley Country Park also welcomes dog walkers on its various routes. Additionally, the Heatons Bridge pub is dog-friendly, making it a good stop after a walk.
While many historical sites in Croston may have limited accessibility due to their age, Heatons Bridge pub explicitly states it has disabled access, including a large car park and separate beer gardens. When planning your visit, it's always advisable to check specific venue accessibility directly.
The Croston Stone Cross and Village Centre is widely regarded as one of the most attractive in the region. It features the historic Stone Cross, which replaced an earlier one, and is home to the historic Grapes pub. The village centre is known for its well-preserved 17th-century cottages on Church Street and a strong community spirit, hosting various local events throughout the year.
Yes, The Croft is considered a 'hidden gem' within the village. It offers a more secluded spot with wooden swings and a natural setting, providing a peaceful escape from the main village areas.
There are various cycling routes catering to different skill levels. You can find easy routes like the 'Croston Stone Circle loop' or more challenging ones such as the 'Ashurst Beacon โ Eyes Lane Bridge loop'. Many routes explore the scenic countryside and canal paths. You can find detailed information on cycling around Croston.
Visitors frequently praise Croston for its attractive village centre, historical charm, and the welcoming atmosphere of its pubs and restaurants. The scenic walks along the River Yarrow and through the surrounding countryside, including places like The 'Moss' and Yarrow Valley Country Park, are also highly appreciated. The community spirit and local events add to the village's appeal.


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