The best walks and hikes around Pennington Flash
4.5
(247)
3,279
hikers
268
hikes
Hiking around Pennington Flash offers a unique landscape shaped by its industrial past, now a designated National Nature Reserve. The area features distinctive "flashes" – bodies of water formed by mining subsidence – alongside extensive reed beds, fen, scrub, and woodland. Hikers can explore a network of trails that provide views of tranquil waters and surrounding marshland, supporting a rich biodiversity. This environment creates varied and picturesque settings for outdoor activities.
Best hiking trails around Pennington Flash
- The most popular hiking route is Around Pennington Flash Nature Reserve, a 3.2 miles (5.1 km) trail that takes 1 hour 19 minutes to complete. This easy path offers continuous views of the main lake and its diverse wildlife.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Tom Edmondson Hide – Pennington Flash Lake loop from Leigh Sports Village Stadium, an easy 4.6 miles (7.4 km) path. It navigates through varied landscapes, including open water views and marshland, providing excellent birdwatching opportunities.
- Local hikers also love the Pennington Flash Lake – Views of Pennington Flash loop from Leigh Sports Village Stadium, a 4.0 miles (6.5 km) trail leading through reed beds and open water, often completed in about 1 hour 40 minutes.
- Hiking around Pennington Flash is defined by open water, extensive reed beds, and woodland paths. The network offers options for different ability levels, primarily featuring easy routes suitable for most hikers.
- The routes in Pennington Flash are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 230 reviews. More than 3200 hikers have used komoot to explore Pennington Flash's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
4.6
(32)
285
hikers
5.12km
01:19
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.5
(2)
146
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.6
(5)
58
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.5
(2)
23
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
50
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Nice cycling
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The circular walk around the lake is definitely worth it. There are many beautiful views of the lake.
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couldn't find the bench non of the locals knew it. 😤 at least I'll have to do this lovely again.
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First time here. It's a beautiful area with ducks, swans, and geese my dog loved it. plenty of children for the icecream van.
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A good little cut through from the EastLancs Road St Helens Road will take you to Pennington flash.
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The rest and playground has a beautiful view of the lake
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The circular route is easy to walk on and is also great fun for children.
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It's a nice place to see wildlife. We enjoyed it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Pennington Flash?
There are over 270 hiking routes to explore around Pennington Flash, catering to various preferences. The majority, about 175, are classified as easy, with an additional 92 moderate routes and a few more challenging options.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the trails at Pennington Flash?
The trails at Pennington Flash feature a diverse landscape, including paths through open water areas, extensive reed beds, fen, scrub, and woodland. Many routes offer tranquil views of the water and surrounding marshland, providing a varied and picturesque hiking experience.
Are there any circular walks around Pennington Flash?
Yes, Pennington Flash is well-known for its circular routes. A popular option is the Around Pennington Flash Nature Reserve route, which is 5.1 km long and offers continuous views of the main lake and its diverse wildlife.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Pennington Flash?
Pennington Flash is a great destination for hiking year-round. However, spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions with mild weather and beautiful seasonal changes in the landscape. These seasons are also excellent for birdwatching, as migratory species pass through.
Are the trails at Pennington Flash suitable for families with children?
Absolutely. Many trails at Pennington Flash are easy and well-maintained, making them ideal for families. The reserve also features an exciting adventure playground, picnic areas, and a visitor centre with a café, adding to the family-friendly experience.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails at Pennington Flash. However, it's important to keep them on a lead, especially around wildlife habitats and other visitors, to protect the diverse bird species and other animals that call the reserve home.
What wildlife can I expect to see while hiking?
Pennington Flash is a National Nature Reserve and a haven for wildlife, particularly birds, with over 230 species recorded. Hikers often spot various waterfowl, waders, and even protected species like the water vole. Six bird hides are strategically placed for excellent viewing opportunities.
Are there facilities like cafes or toilets available at Pennington Flash?
Yes, Pennington Flash offers convenient facilities for visitors. There is a visitor centre with a café where you can grab refreshments, and public toilets are also available on-site.
How long does it typically take to walk around Pennington Flash?
The time it takes depends on the specific route. A popular easy loop, such as the Around Pennington Flash Nature Reserve, is about 5.1 km and typically takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes to complete at a leisurely pace.
What do other hikers say about their experience at Pennington Flash?
The komoot community highly rates hiking in Pennington Flash, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 230 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the tranquil waters, diverse wildlife, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable outdoor experience.
Is there parking available at Pennington Flash?
Yes, there is a dedicated car park at Pennington Flash, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Parking facilities are generally well-signposted upon arrival at the reserve.
Can I reach Pennington Flash using public transport?
While specific public transport routes can vary, Pennington Flash is generally accessible by public transport, with bus services often connecting to nearby towns like Leigh. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for the most current information on routes and timings.
Most popular routes around Pennington Flash
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