Best attractions and places to see around North Turton include a variety of historical landmarks and natural features within the West Pennine Moors. This civil parish in Lancashire, England, offers expansive moorland landscapes and significant cultural sites. Visitors can explore ancient structures and enjoy scenic reservoirs, blending historical interest with outdoor activity. The area provides diverse opportunities for exploration, from historical buildings to natural beauty.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
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Much of the path around the base is presently closed owing to maintenance works, so please be aware!
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The path around the reservoir is worthwhile. It's used by many runners and dog walkers. Unfortunately, the reservoir is currently low on water.
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I visited on a sunny day, it was warm at the bottom and very windy at the very top. The route was quite easy.
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A lovely, easy walk along reservoir shores, with wooded borders that look beautiful in autumn sunshine
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A grand, high-level cruise around the West Pennine Moors. The route follows long chunks of the Witton Weavers’ Way on good tracks so is suitable for a winter’s night. It can, however, get claggy in the woods. The bridleway signage is a lot more generous on the ground than the map would suggest, especially if you have an older map.
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Tower open at weekends, great view from the top despite missing landmark plaques!
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Rivington is a lovely place to get out for a walk - lots to see within a short distance and great to keep kids and adults entertained.
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Rivington Pike at 362m is a very popular summit for runners and walkers. The trails up through the terraced gardens are a lot of fun to run and you can extend the loop by taking in Winter Hill. Get up early or take a head torch and run in the evening to avoid the crowds although it's quite fun running up past them at any time. The tower was built in 1733 on the site of the ancient beacon. It was a hunting lodge but when restored none of the internal features where kept and the door and windows have been blocked.
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North Turton is rich in history. You can visit Rivington Pike Tower, a Grade 2 listed hunting lodge from 1733 offering superb views. Another significant site is Darwen Tower (Jubilee Tower), built in 1898 to commemorate Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee, which you can climb for extensive vistas. Don't miss Turton Tower, a Grade I listed medieval manor house with over 600 years of history, or the unique Pigeon Tower (Dovecote Tower), Rivington, built by Lord Leverhulme in 1910.
Absolutely. North Turton is nestled within the West Pennine Moors, offering vast moorlands and scenic reservoirs. Key natural features include Entwistle Reservoir, known for easy walking routes, and Wayoh Reservoir. For panoramic views, head to Winter Hill Summit, standing at 456 meters, or the aforementioned Rivington Pike Tower and Darwen Tower.
The area around North Turton is excellent for outdoor activities, especially hiking, running, and gravel biking. You can find easy hiking trails like the Warpers Trail or the Entwistle Reservoir loop. For running, explore routes around Wayoh Reservoir or the Heron Artwork at the Lake. Gravel biking options include longer routes like the Entwistle Reservoir to Belmont Reservoir loop. For more details on these and other routes, check out the easy hikes, running trails, and gravel biking routes guides.
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Entwistle Reservoir offers easy walking routes that are popular with families. The grounds and cafe at Turton Tower are open year-round and provide a pleasant setting for a family outing. The Pigeon Tower (Dovecote Tower), Rivington is also considered family-friendly.
The West Pennine Moors, where North Turton is located, are beautiful year-round. For walks, spring and summer offer pleasant weather and lush landscapes, while autumn brings vibrant colors. However, it's advisable to be prepared for changeable weather, especially on exposed moorland areas like Winter Hill Summit, where walking boots and windproof jackets are recommended.
For refreshments, the grounds of Turton Tower include a cafe that is open year-round. Additionally, near Entwistle Reservoir, you'll find a coffee shop and two pubs, making it a convenient spot for a break during your walk.
Beyond the historical buildings, North Turton also features significant cultural and archaeological sites. St Anne's Church in Chapeltown has a history dating back to 1111. For a glimpse into prehistoric times, visit Cheetham Close on the moorland between Chapeltown and Egerton, which contains the remains of Bronze Age stone circles, offering the earliest evidence of settlers in the area.
Yes, North Turton offers several easy walking trails, particularly around its reservoirs. The Entwistle Reservoir is well-known for its easy walking routes. Other easy options include the Warpers Trail and the Entwistle Reservoir – Turton and Entwistle Trail loop. You can find more details on these routes in the Easy hikes around North Turton guide.
Visitors frequently praise the superb views from viewpoints like Rivington Pike Tower and Darwen Tower. The historical significance of sites like Turton Tower and the accessibility of natural beauty, such as the walking routes around Entwistle Reservoir, are also highly appreciated. The opportunity to explore both ancient structures and expansive moorland landscapes is a major draw.
Yes, North Turton has a rich industrial past. Turton Moor, a post-industrial peat moorland, is an excellent area for exploring industrial archaeology. Additionally, the parish contains remnants of the Blackburn, Darwen and Bolton Railway, including a viaduct and ornamental bridges, showcasing the region's historical infrastructure.
The reservoirs, such as Entwistle Reservoir and Wayoh Reservoir, are not only key natural features but also hold historical importance. Entwistle Reservoir, built in 1832, was historically crucial for supplying water to Bolton and regulating water for local textile mills. Today, they provide tranquil settings for walks and contribute significantly to the scenic beauty of the West Pennine Moors.


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