Best attractions and places to see around Up Holland, a village in West Lancashire, England, include a mix of historic landmarks and natural features. The area is characterized by its ancient origins, with sites like the Ancient Parish Church of St. Thomas the Martyr. Up Holland features distinctive cobbled roads and is bordered by semi-natural ancient woodlands such as Dean Wood. The landscape offers opportunities for exploring lakes, woodlands, and challenging cycling routes.
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 café (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 didn’t and got lost
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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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I've only just moved to this area. It's so beautiful for me and my dog for our local walk.
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A Flash is a unique industrial legacy to Wigan and there are many around the Wigan area. Each are lakes formed as a result of mining subsidence. Scotsmans flash the largest of the “Wigan Flashes” is a designated site of scientific interest. This is due to the abundance of rare plant species, several species of orchid, extensive reed beds and migrating birds such as Reed and Sedge Warbler. Scotsmans flash is a beautiful place for a stop to enjoy the views.
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Up Holland offers several natural attractions. You can visit Scotman's Flash, a large lake and a designated Site of Scientific Interest known for its rare plant species and migrating birds. Another option is Carr Mill Dam, a lake and reservoir with trails suitable for walking. Additionally, Dean Wood, a semi-natural ancient woodland, is vibrant with bluebells and wild garlic in spring and is home to varied wildlife.
Yes, there are numerous walking and hiking opportunities. Dean Wood offers beautiful woodland walks, and Ruff Wood is ideal for quiet contemplation. For structured routes, you can explore various options listed in the Easy hikes around Up Holland guide, which includes trails like the Alma Field Trig Point loop and the Lafford Lane loop.
Up Holland has a rich history. The Ancient Parish Church of St. Thomas the Martyr is a significant landmark, with parts dating back to a Benedictine Priory from 1307. The village itself has ancient origins, mentioned in the Domesday Book, and features distinctive cobbled roads that reflect its historical character. Nearby, Haigh Woodland Park and Haigh Hall also offer a historic country house built between 1827 and 1840.
Absolutely. Scotman's Flash and Carr Mill Dam are both considered family-friendly, offering opportunities for walks and enjoying nature. Abbey Lakes is another spot where families can enjoy watching a wide variety of ducks and geese. Haigh Woodland Park and Haigh Hall provides extensive grounds with cycling paths and a cafe, making it a great family day out.
Cyclists have several options. For a challenging ride, Shaley Brow Climb is notorious for its 14% gradient in parts. A quieter alternative for a fast descent from the north or an easier climb from the south is Pimbo Lane. You can find more detailed routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Up Holland guide.
Spring is particularly beautiful for visiting natural areas like Dean Wood, when bluebells, wild garlic, and lesser celandine are in bloom. Generally, the warmer months offer ideal conditions for walking, cycling, and enjoying the lakes. However, many trails are accessible year-round, with winter walks offering a different, serene experience.
Yes, Dean Wood is a haven for wildlife, supporting a varied population of birds and small mammals. Scotman's Flash is a designated site of scientific interest due to its extensive reed beds and migrating birds such as Reed and Sedge Warbler. Abbey Lakes is also known for its wide variety of ducks and geese.
For easy walks, consider the trails around Carr Mill Dam. The Easy hikes around Up Holland guide provides several routes, including the Alma Field Trig Point loop and the Lafford Lane loop, which are generally considered easy.
Beacon Country Park, located nearby, is a flagship countryside site spanning over 300 acres and includes a cafe, making it a great spot for a longer visit with amenities.
Visitors appreciate the blend of historic sites and natural beauty. The tranquil walks through ancient woodlands like Dean Wood, the scenic views from places like Fairy Glen, and the challenging yet rewarding cycling routes like Shaley Brow are frequently enjoyed. The community also values the extensive grounds and facilities at places like Haigh Woodland Park and Haigh Hall.
Yes, there are several running trails available. The Running Trails around Up Holland guide features routes like the Pepper Pot Tower loop and the Carr Mill Fields loop, catering to moderate difficulty levels.
Yes, there are options available. Beacon Country Park has a cafe on-site. Additionally, Haigh Woodland Park and Haigh Hall also features a cafe. The village of Up Holland itself and surrounding areas offer pubs and cafes for refreshments.


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