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United Kingdom
England
North West England
Lancashire
West Lancashire

Parbold

Attractions and Places To See around Parbold - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Parbold include a variety of natural features, historical sites, and cultural landmarks. This picturesque village in West Lancashire is characterized by its rolling hills, the serene Leeds-Liverpool Canal, and mature woodlands. Visitors can explore sites of historical significance and enjoy the diverse natural landscape. The area offers a blend of rural tranquility and opportunities for outdoor activities.

Best attractions and places to see around Parbold

  • The most popular attractions is Scotman's Flash, a lake that is a large body of water formed from mining subsidence. It is a designated site of scientific interest, known for its rare plant species, extensive reed beds, and migrating birds.
  • Another must-see spot is Eyes Lane Metal Bridge, a cycle way and bridge. This metal bridge spans the canal, providing a viewpoint to admire the surroundings and offering photo opportunities.
  • Visitors also love Pimbo Lane, a quiet and narrow cycle way. It is suitable for cycling, offering a fast descent from the north and an alternative route from the south.
  • Parbold is known for its natural features like lakes and woodlands, historical sites, and recreational routes along the canal. The area provides a variety of attractions for those interested in outdoor activities and local heritage.
  • The attractions around Parbold are appreciated by the komoot community, with 68 upvotes and 6 photos shared.

Last updated: May 4, 2026

Scotman's Flash

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canal tow path on the Leigh branch of the Leeds and Liverpool Wigan flashes on both sides brick paved all down the stretch always busy with walkers and cyclists

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Eyes Lane Metal Bridge

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Metal Bridge. Lovely stop off to admire the view.

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Croston is one of the most attractive large villages in the area with several pubs and restaurants.

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Pimbo Lane

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Quiet and narrow lane, fast descent from the north and an easy alternative to Shaley Brow from the south.

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Yarrow Valley Country Park

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This park has so much to offer beautiful lakes waterfalls many different routes which is great for the kids and dog walkers

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Tips from the Community

Midlife Cyclist
July 29, 2025, Yarrow Valley Country Park

Yarrow Valley Country Park was first established in 1987 on land previously used for bleaching, dyeing, calico printing, and mining. Once industrial activity had ended, the site lay derelict for 30 years until the late 1980's when Chorley Council acquired the site. Yarrow Valley Country Park, a 700-acre facility run by Chorley Council, includes a café (treeface) built using Heritage Lottery funds. There is a play area for children, with a dog protection order, and also an angling agreement at Yarrow Valley Country Park, which gives the fishing rights at Birkacre to Wigan & District Angling Association (WDAA). Yarrow Valley Country Park has been awarded Green Flag status since 2004. The 'park' is used by (dog) walkers, runners & cyclists. Share with care :)

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Green route, make sure follow the map as we didn’t and got lost

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lovely village to stop lots of cafes

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RamoRuon
September 19, 2024, Eyes Lane Metal Bridge

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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This park has so much to offer beautiful lakes waterfalls many different routes which is great for the kids and dog walkers

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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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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 natural attractions to visit around Parbold?

Parbold offers several beautiful natural features. You can explore Scotman's Flash, a large lake formed from mining subsidence, known for its rare plant species, extensive reed beds, and migrating birds. Another must-see is Fairy Glen, a picturesque woodland walk with dramatic cliff edges and spectacular waterfalls, located on the side of Parbold Hill. The Leeds-Liverpool Canal also provides a serene environment for walks and cycling.

Are there any historical sites or landmarks in Parbold?

Yes, Parbold has a rich history reflected in its landmarks. You can visit the distinctive Parbold Bottle, a stone monument from 1832 commemorating the Great Reform Bill, located just below Parbold Hill's summit. The Old Windmill, near the canal, is another historic landmark that now houses a gallery. Additionally, Croston Stone Cross and Village Centre offers a glimpse into a village with history dating back to the 7th century, featuring a stone cross and charming architecture.

What outdoor activities can I do near Parbold's attractions?

The area around Parbold is excellent for outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking, cycling, and angling along the picturesque towpath of the Leeds-Liverpool Canal. For hiking, there are numerous trails, including those around Parbold Hill and Fairy Glen. Komoot offers various routes, such as the 'Fairy Glen Waterfalls – Parbold Hill Viewpoint loop from Parbold' or the 'Canal Walk Near Parbold – Coronation Bridge loop from Parbold'. You can find more details on hiking routes at Hiking around Parbold.

Are there family-friendly attractions around Parbold?

Absolutely! Scotman's Flash is a family-friendly lake offering water sports and beautiful views. Yarrow Valley Country Park is another great option, featuring lakes, waterfalls, and various routes suitable for kids and dog walkers, along with a cafe and information centre. The village of Croston is also considered family-friendly with its charming village centre and local amenities.

Where can I find good viewpoints in the Parbold area?

For breathtaking panoramic views, head to Parbold Hill. From its summit, you can see across the West Lancashire plain, extending to Liverpool, Manchester, and even Wales on clear days. You can also spot Ashurst's Beacon and Blackpool Tower. Another spot for admiring the surroundings is Eyes Lane Metal Bridge, which spans the canal and offers great photo opportunities.

What kind of cycling routes are available near Parbold?

Cyclists can enjoy the serene towpath along the Leeds-Liverpool Canal. For dedicated routes, Pimbo Lane offers a quiet and narrow cycle way, suitable for a fast descent from the north or an alternative route from the south. The Eyes Lane Metal Bridge is also part of a cycle way. For more options, explore MTB trails around Parbold at MTB Trails around Parbold.

Are there any easy walking trails around Parbold?

Yes, there are several easy walking options. The towpath along the Leeds-Liverpool Canal provides flat and accessible paths. For specific easy hikes, consider routes like 'The Leeds & Liverpool Canal & Fairy Glen loop from Appley Bridge' or 'Fairy Glen Waterfalls – Fairy Glen loop from Parbold'. You can find more easy hiking routes at Easy hikes around Parbold.

What is the Leeds-Liverpool Canal like near Parbold?

The Leeds-Liverpool Canal meanders along Parbold's southern edge, offering a tranquil and picturesque setting. Its towpath is popular for walking, cycling, and angling. The canal features several listed bridges, milestones, and a lock within the parish, providing both natural beauty and historical interest.

What is special about Yarrow Valley Country Park?

Yarrow Valley Country Park is a diverse area featuring beautiful lakes, waterfalls, and various trails suitable for different activity levels. It's a great spot for families and dog walkers, offering a cafe and an information centre. The park also holds historical significance as the site of former cloth mills, dyeing works, and a small colliery, with interesting traces of its industrial past still visible.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Parbold?

Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical charm. The panoramic views from Parbold Hill, the tranquil walks through Fairy Glen, and the recreational opportunities along the Leeds-Liverpool Canal are highly rated. The community also enjoys the unique character of places like Croston Stone Cross and Village Centre, with its pubs, restaurants, and vibrant community spirit.

Are there any cultural or religious sites in Parbold?

Parbold is home to Christ Church, the local Anglican church located near the top of Parbold Hill, which also houses the village's war memorial. Another notable religious site is Our Lady and All Saints Church, consecrated in 1884. These churches contribute to the village's cultural and historical fabric.

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