Waterfalls around Eccleston offer natural attractions within a rural setting, characterized by wooded areas and brooks. The locality features ancient broadleaf woodlands and diverse landscapes, providing scenic backdrops for outdoor activities. Eccleston's natural environment makes it a destination for those seeking walks and natural beauty. The area is known for its series of waterfalls formed by brooks cutting through bedrock.
Last updated: May 18, 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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The land here that now forms Yarrow Valley Country Park was acquired by Chorley Council in the early 1980's. It's the site of the former cloth mills, then dyeing works and more recently a small colliery. None of the industry remains but there are interesting traces left including some of the foundation stones of the coal mines, the mill ponds and some machinery. There is a cafe and information centre on site.
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Fairy Glen is a small area of recreation land that follows the Spodley Brook upstream through ancient broadleaf woodland. There are several waterfalls where the brook has cut into the bedrock over time. It's a popular family and dog walking area which becomes busy at weekends in good weather.
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Yes, several waterfalls in the area are suitable for families. Fairy Glen Waterfalls is a popular spot for family and dog walks, featuring multiple cascades along Spodley Brook within ancient broadleaf woodland. Another great option is Yarrow Valley Country Park, which offers lakes, rivers, and waterfalls, along with a cafe and information centre on site.
The waterfalls around Eccleston are set within diverse natural landscapes. You'll find ancient broadleaf woodlands, winding brooks, and areas where water has carved through bedrock. Locations like Fairy Glen Waterfalls showcase a series of cascades within a serene woodland, while Yarrow Valley Country Park combines waterfalls with lakes and rivers, offering varied scenery.
Yes, the area around Eccleston has a rich history that intertwines with its natural beauty. Lead Mine Clough is a notable historical site with several waterfalls, set within an old mining area featuring a gorge. Additionally, Yarrow Valley Country Park is the site of former cloth mills and a colliery, with interesting traces of its industrial past still visible.
The waterfalls are particularly impressive after rainfall when the water flow is strong. This makes them quite striking and ideal for photography. However, be aware that popular spots like Fairy Glen Waterfalls can get busy on weekends during good weather. Visiting early morning can help avoid crowds.
Beyond visiting the waterfalls, you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. The region offers numerous hiking opportunities, with routes ranging from easy to moderate. You can explore trails around Yarrow Valley Country Park or embark on longer walks that incorporate waterfalls like Hatch Brook Waterfall. For more detailed hiking routes, check out the Hiking around Eccleston guide. There are also options for road cycling and gravel biking in the wider area.
Yes, some waterfall trails can be challenging. The path to Waterfalls at Limestone Brook can be difficult, uneven, and slippery in places, often in close proximity to a drop into the river. Similarly, Lead Mine Clough features intermediate to challenging trails through an old mining area and gorge.
Given that paths can be muddy and slippery, even without recent rain, it's advisable to wear appropriate footwear with good grip. Waterproof or water-resistant clothing might also be beneficial, especially if visiting after rainfall to fully enjoy the stronger waterfall flows.
Many of the trails around Eccleston's waterfalls are dog-friendly. For instance, Fairy Glen Waterfalls is a popular area for dog walkers, and Yarrow Valley Country Park is also well-suited for walks with dogs.
Specific parking details vary by location. For Yarrow Valley Country Park, there is usually dedicated parking available. For other popular spots like Fairy Glen Waterfalls, parking can be found nearby, though it can get busy during peak times. It's always a good idea to check local signage or online resources for the most current parking information before your visit.
Visitors frequently praise the natural beauty and tranquility of the area. Many appreciate the 'lovely walks' offered by places like Fairy Glen Waterfalls, highlighting the serene ancient broadleaf woodland. The diverse landscapes, from historical mining sites at Lead Mine Clough to the varied scenery of Yarrow Valley Country Park, are also highly valued.
Yes, Yarrow Valley Country Park has a cafe and information centre on site, making it a convenient stop for refreshments. For other waterfall locations, you might find cafes, pubs, or accommodation options in the nearby villages and towns, such as Eccleston itself or Chorley.


Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around Eccleston: