Waterfalls around Samlesbury offer diverse natural and man-made cascades within scenic landscapes. The area, situated between Blackburn and Preston, features river valleys and woodland, providing accessible outdoor experiences. Hoghton Bottoms, in particular, is known for its weir waterfall on the River Darwen, set within a picturesque sandstone gorge. These locations combine natural beauty with historical elements, such as the Hoghton Bottoms Viaduct.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
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Pretty waterfall set in woodland within Bold Venture Park.
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Bold Venture Park is a wonderful little park with waterfall sculptures. Although cycling is not permitted throughout the park, it's still nice to visit. I pushed my bike along, which is fine.
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Beautiful park and lakes lovely place for a stop. Some of the path can be gravel so take care if on road wheels
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This is a spectacular section of the River Darwen, where a picturesque sandstone gorge leads to a tumbling weir and the 108-foot (33 m) high Hoghton Bottoms Viaduct towers above. Great photo opportunities abound, as both the weir and the viaduct are undoubtedly spectacular. Bear in mind that trails around here can be very boggy following rainfall and in the winter months, so I'd highly recommend sturdy hiking boots.
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Great waterfall in the woods. Be careful underfoot as it can be muddy and slippery even when it’s not rained recently.
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Hoghton Bottoms Weir is one of many barriers on the River Darwen. It is also the barrier who’s alteration will bring the single greatest increase in habitat connectivity in the project, and largest barrier to be addresses through Ribble Life Together. The weir sits at the top of a picturesque sandstone gorge- the only feature of its type in the Ribble Catchment- and it is crossed by the Hoghton Tower Viaduct. The weir is a famous local landmark and is easily accessible thanks to a public footpath running alongside the river. This structure is also an important piece of local history, and once provided water to Higher Mill and Livesey’s Cotton Factory. The mill leat is still visible in it’s entirity, from the weir to the viaduct over the river.
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You can explore several unique waterfalls. The Hoghton Bottoms Weir and Viaduct features a tumbling weir within a picturesque sandstone gorge, with the impressive 108-foot (33 m) high viaduct towering above. Another option is Roddlesworth Waterfall, a forest waterfall popular for walks around reservoirs. For a family-friendly experience, Bold Venture Park Waterfall offers unique waterfall sculptures set within woodland.
The area around Samlesbury's waterfalls is rich in natural beauty. At Hoghton Bottoms, you'll find a picturesque sandstone gorge and the River Darwen. Roddlesworth Waterfall is nestled within a forest, surrounded by reservoirs. You can also expect scenic woodland walks and river valleys throughout the region.
Yes, the most prominent historical landmark is the impressive 108-foot (33 m) high Hoghton Bottoms Viaduct, which adds a significant architectural element to the natural beauty of the weir. The area also retains visible remnants of a mill leat, highlighting its industrial past.
Many of the waterfall locations are family-friendly. Bold Venture Park Waterfall is particularly noted for its family-friendly park setting with waterfall sculptures. Cuerden Valley Park and Nature Reserve also features a waterfall and is considered family-friendly, offering lakes and forest areas to explore.
Yes, several waterfall areas are dog-friendly. Roddlesworth Waterfall is specifically mentioned as being suitable for dog walkers, offering walks around reservoirs. The woodland trails at Hoghton Bottoms are also popular with dog walkers, though always remember to pick up after your pet.
The terrain can vary. Trails around Hoghton Bottoms Weir and Viaduct can be very boggy after rainfall and during winter months, so sturdy hiking boots are highly recommended. Similarly, the path to Hatch Brook Waterfall can be muddy and slippery even without recent rain. Some paths, like those in Cuerden Valley Park, may have gravel sections.
Given that many trails can become boggy or muddy, especially after rainfall or in winter, it's highly recommended to wear sturdy hiking boots. Layered clothing is also advisable to adapt to changing weather conditions.
Yes, if you're visiting Hoghton Bottoms, the nearby dog-friendly Boars Head pub is a popular spot for refreshments after your walk.
To reach Hoghton Bottoms, visitors often head towards Hoghton Village Hall, then turn onto Chapel Lane, which leads to a path at the start of the trail. Parking is typically available in the vicinity of Hoghton Village Hall.
Absolutely. The region offers numerous hiking routes. You can find moderate hikes like 'The Royal Oak, Riley Green – Sheep Pasture loop from Hoghton' or 'Pleasington Priory – Witton Country Park loop from Hoghton'. For easier options, consider 'Brockholes Nature Reserve – Boilton Wood loop from Samlesbury'. Explore more options on the Hiking around Samlesbury guide.
Beyond hiking, the area is also suitable for gravel biking. Routes like 'Lancaster Canal Towpath – Haslam Park Nature Reserve loop from Preston' offer an easy ride, while 'Entwistle Reservoir – View of Belmont Reservoir loop from Tockholes' provides a moderate challenge. Find more details on the Gravel biking around Samlesbury guide.
The waterfalls can be enjoyed year-round, but conditions vary. After heavy rainfall, the weirs and cascades will be more impressive, but trails can become very boggy. Spring and autumn offer beautiful scenery with lush greenery or vibrant fall colors. Winter can be picturesque, but trails will likely be muddy and slippery.
Visitors frequently highlight the spectacular nature of the Hoghton Bottoms Weir and Viaduct. The picturesque sandstone gorge, the tumbling weir, and the towering viaduct create excellent photo opportunities. It's appreciated for combining natural beauty with historical interest.

