Join us for a guided walk of Smithills Estate, looking at this beautiful area’s history, scenic views and varied habitats.
Step back in time to learn about the industry and people that once occupied this now tranquil landscape, from long-forgotten pubs and the industrial past of the Smithills Estate.
Starting at Barrow Bridge, this walk will explore semi-natural ancient woodland of High Shores Clough, wildflower grassland of Twitchells meadow, new woodland of Walker Fold, Burnt Edge Colliery and the precious heathland habitat of Burnt Edge before returning back to Barrow Bridge.
They’ll be an opportunity to stop for a hot drink and cake at and temporary toilet at Walker Fold.
Event information:
Meeting point: Barrow Bridge car park, Barrow Bridge Road, Bolton. BL1 7NH
(what3words: learns.moment.code)
Price: Free (donations welcome via Walker Fold car park machine)
Time: 9.45 am
Duration: Approx 3.5 hours
To ensure group safety and conservation of the area, numbers are limited.
What to know before the walk:
This walk is approx. 3.5 hours, 8.8 km/ 5.5 miles and is partly on footpaths and partly on uneven ground.
This walk includes steps, crossing a main road is not suitable for anyone with mobility issues.
We ask all attendees to come prepared for cold and potentially wet weather. This walk will be cancelled if there is severe weather. Please check your emails the day before the walk.
Please bring snacks and plenty of water for the walk.
Walker Fold car park has a coffee van and temporary toilet.
Please make the Woodland Trust team aware of any medical issues before the start of the walk, e.g. asthma, diabetes, etc
Barrow Bridge has poor phone signal, please plan your route ahead of time.
Well behaved dogs welcome on a lead.
Children under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Starting point Woodland Trust Barrow Bridge Car Park Bolton BL1 7NH