Towers and Turrets

Overview

The Last Drop Village hotel and spa complex stands high above Bolton on the edge of the hills and makes an excellent starting point for this walk across a scenic golf course, over one bridge of towers and turrets (one of which can be climbed) and past another, through woods to the attractive village of Chapeltown. You visit two reservoirs offering extensive views and linked by a delightful wooded gorge with a rippling stream.

Along the way, look out for Turton Tower, a house that has been evolving over the last 600 years. From a stone tower house in the 1400s to the home of the Tudor Orrell and, later, the Victorian Kay Families, Turton Tower has been altered and adapted to suit the needs and tastes of those who lived here. It is because of these changes that Turton Tower is of national importance and unique in Northwest England. Today it still captures the spirit of those ages and displays some of the finest paintings and furniture in the region. Visit the Turton Tower website to find out details of opening times and entry fees.

Although the walking on this route is straightforward, it may be advisable to use the relevant Ordnance Survey map (287 West Pennine Moors) or the OS mapping app.

Accessibility and facilities

Because of the varied terrain involved, this route is not rated as suitable for wheelchair and pushchair-users. Note, however, that many of the paths around Jumbles reservoir are fully accessible.

There is a – the ‘Drop Inn’ – and a ‘Village tea room’ within the Last Drop hotel/spa complex and pubs within Bromley Cross, notably The Railway right next to the station.

How to get there

The main start point given on this page (and in the leaflet) is Last Drop Village Hotel and Spa. We also list an alternative start point (by the entrance to Grange Manor on Grange Road – point 7 in the description), which is only a short walk from Bromley Cross train station.

To work out how to get to and from the walk start points, simply click the Google Maps link(s) 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.

Alternatively, input the postcode(s) shown on this page into the TfGM journey planner at https://my.tfgm.com/#/planner/