Attractions and Places To See around Dalton - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Dalton include a variety of natural and man-made features. The region offers opportunities for outdoor activities, with many places in Dalton suitable for exploring. Visitors can discover numerous lakes, cycle paths, and historical settlements. These diverse attractions provide options for those seeking to experience the area's outdoor offerings.
Best attractions and places to see around Dalton
- The most popular attractions is Scotman's Flash, a lake that features a huge lake and various…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Scotman's Flash
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Eyes Lane Metal Bridge
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Croston Stone Cross and Village Centre
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Carr Mill Dam
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Pimbo Lane
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Tips from the Community
lovely village to stop lots of cafes
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Agreed on the beauty of the area but if you arrive at the bridge and find it empty, take your pics and vids quickly because the racket caused by cars passing over it is absolutely awful/unbearable. Not sure who designed it with loose individual metal slats in mind but the clatter means a re-think is required! The central rubber 'carpet' (sections of which are missing) might mildly dim noise generated by cyclists but is totally redundant for the main culprit: the car. Speaking of which: a decision needs to be made on whether the lane and bridge should remain accessible by car because at the moment (and with burgeoning sizes of vehicles in future), the purpose of the cycleway is somewhat diminished when riders have to constantly stop while two cars squirm past each other or to allow one to overtake. Perhaps it was just busier on the day I visited but it got very silly indeed!
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Croston was founded in the 7th century when St Aidan arrived at the riverside settlements. In the absence of a church, a cross was erected as a place of worship. The name is derived from the two Old English words 'cross' and 'tūn' (town/homestead/village) and is unique to the village. The parish of Croston was formerly far larger than it is today. It included Chorley, Much Hoole, Rufford, Bretherton, Mawdesley, Tarleton, Hesketh Bank, Bispham, Walmer Bridge and Ulnes Walton. These became independent parishes as a result of a series of separations between 1642 and 1821.[2] A charter granted by Edward I in 1283 permitted an annual medieval fair and market to be held on the village green. Pre-20th Century maps also depict a castle which is believed to have been of a wooden construction because there is no evidence of a stone structure.
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I've only just moved to this area. It's so beautiful for me and my dog for our local walk.
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A Flash is a unique industrial legacy to Wigan and there are many around the Wigan area. Each are lakes formed as a result of mining subsidence. Scotsmans flash the largest of the “Wigan Flashes” is a designated site of scientific interest. This is due to the abundance of rare plant species, several species of orchid, extensive reed beds and migrating birds such as Reed and Sedge Warbler. Scotsmans flash is a beautiful place for a stop to enjoy the views.
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Scotman's Flash is just 10 minutes from the centre of Wigan featuring a huge lake and lots of exciting experiences for everyone to enjoy. Scotman's Flash is the perfect place for water sports, whether you’re brand new to canoeing, sailing and kayaking or want to get your game on with courses and qualifications to match your skills.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best outdoor attractions to visit near Dalton?
You can explore several natural and man-made outdoor attractions. Scotman's Flash is a large lake known for water sports and its designation as a site of scientific interest due to rare plant species and migrating birds. Another popular spot is Carr Mill Dam, a family-friendly lake and reservoir with trails for walking and activities like powerboat racing and fishing.
Are there family-friendly activities available around Dalton?
Yes, Dalton offers several family-friendly options. Carr Mill Dam is a great choice with walking trails and water activities. Scotman's Flash also provides various experiences suitable for families, including water sports. Additionally, the historic village of Croston Stone Cross and Village Centre is a pleasant place to explore with children.
Where can I find easy hiking trails near Dalton?
For easy hikes, consider trails around Appley Bridge. Options include 'The Leeds & Liverpool Canal & Fairy Glen loop' (around 4.9 km) and 'Leeds and Liverpool Canal loop from Appley Bridge' (around 5.5 km). You can find more details and routes in the Easy hikes around Dalton guide.
Are there any dog-friendly places to visit in the Dalton area?
Yes, Carr Mill Dam is a dog-friendly location. Its trails around the edge are suitable for walking with your canine companion, though it can get muddy at times.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see near Dalton's outdoor attractions?
Scotman's Flash is a designated site of scientific interest, making it an excellent spot for wildlife viewing. It's known for an abundance of rare plant species, several types of orchids, extensive reed beds, and migrating birds such as Reed and Sedge Warblers.
What are the best places for cycling around Dalton?
Dalton is known for its cycle ways. You can enjoy routes like the 'Leeds and Liverpool Canal – Scotman's Flash loop from Parbold' (around 28 km) or the 'Eyes Lane Bridge – Leeds and Liverpool Canal loop from Parbold' (around 58 km). The Eyes Lane Metal Bridge itself is a popular stop on a cycle route. Explore more options in the Cycling around Dalton guide.
Are there any historical settlements or sites to explore?
Yes, the Croston Stone Cross and Village Centre is a notable historical settlement. Founded in the 7th century, it features a unique stone cross that served as a place of worship. The village has a rich history, including a medieval fair and market granted by Edward I in 1283.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Dalton?
Visitors particularly appreciate the natural beauty and variety of activities. Many enjoy the canal tow paths for walking and cycling, the opportunities for water sports at lakes like Scotman's Flash, and the scenic views from spots like Eyes Lane Metal Bridge. The historical charm of villages like Croston is also highly rated.
Can I find circular walking routes near Dalton?
Many of the hiking and cycling routes around Dalton are circular. For instance, the 'Leeds and Liverpool Canal loop from Appley Bridge' is an easy circular hike. You can find various loop trails suitable for walking in the Easy hikes around Dalton guide and the Cycling around Dalton guide.
Are there any viewpoints to enjoy scenic vistas?
Yes, several attractions offer great views. Eyes Lane Metal Bridge is a popular viewpoint over the canal. Both Scotman's Flash and Carr Mill Dam provide expansive lake views, and the historic Croston Stone Cross and Village Centre also has pleasant views around the village.
What are some good running trails near Dalton?
For runners, there are several trails available. You can find challenging routes like 'Ashurst's Beacon – Fairy Glen loop from Appley Bridge' (around 34 km) or 'Ashurst Beacon – Ashurst's Beacon loop from Appley Bridge' (around 21 km). Moderate options include 'The Millhouse Pub – Leeds and Liverpool Canal loop from Parbold' (around 12.8 km). More running trails are detailed in the Running Trails around Dalton guide.
Most popular attractions around Dalton
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