Attractions and places to see around Lathom South include a mix of historical sites, natural features, and recreational opportunities. This civil parish in West Lancashire is characterized by gentle terrain, with flat agricultural plains and slightly rising elevations. The area's landscape features waterways like the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, and historical significance tied to Lathom House. Visitors can explore a variety of outdoor activities and cultural landmarks.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
Highlight • Cycleway
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Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
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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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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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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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Nice little bridge over the canal definitely worth a photo
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Shaley Brow is in my opinion a Jekyll and Hyde kind of hill, on paper it doesn't look all that bad, yes it kicks up to about 14% but take it at a steady pace with a low gear and the hill can be conquered without too much of a problem. However attack it at any sort of pace, be it with a competitive group, going after a strava KOM or like in 2013 for HMCC's annual hill climb competition, Shaley Brow has a habit of ripping your legs off, laughing at you as you struggle on and finally giving you an all mighty kick when you are down. If you want an idea on how feared this local climb is I have been riding with the club for 3 years and in that time have only ridden it 4 times. If a group gets close a hush will come over the riders waiting to see if the ride leader is feeling sadistic and the chat only gets going when they realise they are turning away, which luckily they often do.
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Lathom South offers a variety of natural features. You can walk or cycle along the towpaths of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, which passes through the parish. The area also features the River Tawd and Eller Brook, which flow into the River Douglas. For more extensive natural beauty, consider visiting Fairy Glen for woodland trails and waterfalls, Mere Sands Wood for woodlands and lakes, or Gorse Hill Nature Reserve for a tranquil atmosphere and birdwatching. Carr Mill Dam is another notable lake and reservoir with trails for walking and mountain biking.
Yes, Lathom South is rich in history. The area is significant for the historical Lathom House, once a grand country house and medieval deer park. While the main house was largely demolished, earthwork banks and ditches remain, including "Cromwell's Ditch" from the Civil War. You can also visit Lathom Park Chapel, a building from around 1500 with notable windows and carvings, and bullet holes believed to be from Roundhead muskets. Nearby, you can find the visible ruins of Burscough Priory, founded around 1190.
Lathom South is popular with cyclists. You can enjoy quiet rides on lanes like Pimbo Lane, known for its fast descent from the north. For a more challenging ride, try the Shaley Brow Climb, which features steep gradients. The Eyes Lane Metal Bridge is a lovely spot to admire views while cycling. For longer routes, explore the nearby road cycling guide, which includes routes like the 'Lancashire Cycleway Ormskirk Loop' and 'Leeds and Liverpool Canal – Martin Mere Wetland Centre loop'. You can find more details on these routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Lathom South guide.
Yes, several spots are suitable for families. Mere Sands Wood is a large nature reserve with accessible paths, ideal for wildlife viewing. Carr Mill Dam offers trails around its edge that are good for walking. The nearby village of Croston is also described as family-friendly, with a historic village center and various activities throughout the year.
Lathom South offers a network of public footpaths and canal towpaths. Popular hiking trails include the Mini Beast Trail – Ruff Wood loop and the Old Gorse Hill Reservoir loop, both starting from nearby Ormskirk. For more options, you can explore the Hiking around Lathom South guide, which features routes like the 'Ruff Wood – St James' Church, Westhead loop' and 'View of Ashurst's Beacon – Ashurst Beacon loop'.
Visitors appreciate the scenic views and tranquil atmosphere. The Eyes Lane Metal Bridge is noted as a lovely spot to admire the view and is popular for photos. Carr Mill Dam is enjoyed for its walking trails, though visitors note it can get muddy. Cyclists enjoy the quiet lanes and challenging climbs like Pimbo Lane and Shaley Brow Climb.
Yes, the nearby village of Croston is considered one of the most attractive large villages in the area. It features a historic stone cross, several pubs and restaurants, and has an ancient history with a market charter granted in 1283. It's a great place to explore local culture and enjoy a meal.
For runners, Lathom South and its surroundings offer several trails. You can find routes like the 'Rainford Bypass – Bickerstaffe Cycle Trails loop' and the 'New Park Wood – Ruff Wood loop'. The Running Trails around Lathom South guide provides more detailed information on these and other running routes, including distances and difficulty grades.
Yes, Lathom South offers several dog-friendly options. Many of the public footpaths and canal towpaths are suitable for dog walking. Carr Mill Dam is also noted as dog-friendly, with trails around the lake. Always remember to keep dogs on a lead where necessary and clean up after them.
The gentle terrain of Lathom South makes it suitable for outdoor activities throughout much of the year. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walking, cycling, and exploring natural features like Fairy Glen and Mere Sands Wood. Autumn provides beautiful scenery with changing foliage. While some trails can get muddy in wetter seasons, many paths remain accessible, making it a year-round destination for those prepared for varied conditions.
Absolutely. The Eyes Lane Metal Bridge is a popular, quiet spot to enjoy views, particularly over the canal. The towpaths along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal also offer serene stretches with picturesque countryside views. Additionally, nature reserves like Mere Sands Wood and Gorse Hill Nature Reserve provide peaceful settings for enjoying the natural landscape.
Lathom South has local options for refreshments. The Wardens Club is a local pub located in Blaguegate Lane, Lathom South. Additionally, the nearby village of Croston is known for having several pubs and restaurants, offering more choices for dining and socializing after exploring the area.


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