Seven Acres Local Nature Reserve is situated in the Bradshaw Brook Valley in the residential district of Breightmet in the east of Bolton. Designated in 2004, the reserve provides a popular location to experience the countryside and wildlife with open views towards Winter Hill and the moors north of Bolton.
The reserve now boasts grassland areas of over one hectare (ha) and native broadleaf woodland covering 9.6 ha. Habitats of wildflower meadows, marshland area, developing heathland and pond and lodge are also managed for wildlife. Bradshaw Brook runs the length of the Reserve with a footbridge around the mid-point. The patchwork of habitats provides communities of butterflies, dragonflies and bird life with amphibians and deer present. The network of paths, bridleways and cycleway stretch 2 km and provide access around the site from 15 entrance points. Industrial heritage is prominent on the site and is blended well with the wildlife habitats.
The site has many access points and links to the wider Public Rights of Way footpath network.
With over 2 km (1.3 miles) of footpath and cycleway, walks of varying length and duration may be enjoyed. For those who seek further involvement, the Friends of Seven Acres arrange regular events both on site and interesting visits to other places.
Accessibility
According to Friends of Seven Acres, “there is good access for disabled users at the Thicketford Road car park with a nice wide kissing-gate which also provides a RADAR key facility.”
How to get there
To work out how to get to and from the walk start points, simply click the Google Maps links shown on this page. Then click ‘Directions’ and enter your postcode or location in the relevant field. For public transport options, click on the train icon.