The best walks and hikes around Horwich

Yes, the area is very welcoming for dogs. Many trails on the West Pennine Moors are suitable for walking with your dog. For a well-regarded local spot, Seven Acres Country Park is a great choice, offering a tranquil wildlife reserve with established paths. Another popular area for dog walkers is BOB'S BREW WEIR, which has open spaces and paths along the River Douglas.

For a gentle walk that's great for families, the area around Turton and Entwistle Reservoir is a fantastic option. It's a highly-rated spot with a straightforward, scenic path around the water that is suitable for all ages.

Tigers Clough is the best place to see waterfalls. It's a popular local spot featuring a lovely brook and a series of small cascades, making it a rewarding destination for a short hike, especially for those with 'little explorers'.

The area is rich in history. For a walk that takes in some unique ruins, the Rivington Pike Tower – The Japanese Garden loop from Horwich is an excellent choice. This trail leads you through the fascinating Rivington Terraced Gardens, created by Lord Leverhulme, where you can explore the remains of the Japanese Garden and the iconic Pigeon Tower.

There's a wide variety of trails to choose from, with over 60 curated routes available on komoot. These range from easy strolls around reservoirs to challenging ascents on the moors, so you'll find plenty of options whatever your fitness level.

The hiking routes around Horwich are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning panoramic views from the hilltops and the unique mix of wild moorland, tranquil reservoirs, and historic parkland.

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the ascent to Winter Hill, the highest point in the West Pennine Moors, is a classic. The trails leading to the summit are strenuous but reward you with some of the most expansive and breathtaking views in the region.

Horwich is well-connected, making it possible to access many trailheads without a car. The town has a railway station, Horwich Parkway, and several bus routes that stop near the starting points for popular walks into Lever Park and the West Pennine Moors.

The weather on the moors can change quickly, even in summer. It's essential to wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots. Dressing in layers is recommended, and you should always pack a waterproof jacket, even if the forecast looks clear. An Ordnance Survey map and a compass or a reliable GPS device are also crucial for navigation.

The landscape around Horwich is dotted with reservoirs offering excellent circular walks. The path around Anglezarke Reservoir is a popular long-distance option that connects with other reservoirs in the Rivington chain. For a shorter but equally scenic loop, the trail around High Rid Reservoir is a great choice closer to town.

For panoramic views, the summit of Rivington Pike is unmatched, offering sightlines to Blackpool Tower and the Lake District on a clear day. The area around Two Lads' Cairn also provides fantastic, wide-open vistas across the moors and towards the town.