Best attractions and places to see around Wheelton include a blend of countryside charm, historical landmarks, and natural beauty. The village is nestled in the Borough of Chorley, Lancashire, and is popular with walkers and cyclists due to its scenic surroundings. Visitors can explore notable landmarks such as the Wheelton Memorial Clock Tower and the Victorian Water Tower. The area also features natural landscapes like the Leeds and Liverpool Canal and proximity to the West Pennine Moors.
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 Weaversโ Way on good tracks so is suitable for a winterโs 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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Wheelton and its surroundings are rich in history. Within the village, you can find the Grade II Listed Wheelton Memorial Clock Tower, built from local stone, and the distinctive Victorian Water Tower. The Leeds and Liverpool Canal's Top Lock and the Higher Wheelton Aqueduct also offer glimpses into the area's industrial past. Further afield, consider visiting Rivington Pike Tower, a 1733 hunting lodge, or Darwen Tower (Jubilee Tower), an 1898 monument offering extensive views.
Absolutely. Wheelton is surrounded by natural beauty. The Leeds and Liverpool Canal offers scenic, flat walking routes along its towpath. The village is also close to the West Pennine Moors, providing moorland and woodland to explore. Other popular spots include the Heapey Reservoirs and White Coppice, known for their walking and cycling opportunities. Don't miss Entwistle Reservoir, a beautiful lake with easy walking trails.
The area around Wheelton is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy various activities such as hiking, road cycling, and running. For specific routes, explore the easy hikes around Wheelton, or check out the road cycling routes and running trails available.
Yes, there are several family-friendly options. Entwistle Reservoir is known for its scenic beauty and easy walking trails suitable for families. The Pigeon Tower (Dovecote Tower) in Rivington is another family-friendly historical site with lovely views. Additionally, the flat towpaths along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal are great for leisurely family strolls.
For superb panoramic views, head to Rivington Pike Tower. Another excellent spot is Darwen Tower (Jubilee Tower), which offers extensive 360-degree views from its 85-foot height. The Winter Hill Summit also provides great vistas across the West Pennine Hills.
Wheelton offers a variety of hiking trails. You can find easy routes like the 'Brinscall Lake โ White Coppice Stone Bridge loop' or the 'Coppice Stile Tree โ The Goit loop'. For more options, explore the easy hikes around Wheelton guide, which includes routes around the canal and local beauty spots.
Yes, Wheelton has traditional pubs known for their warm atmosphere. The Dressers Arms is a popular spot for good food and real ales, while The Golden Lion in Higher Wheelton also has a great reputation. These establishments are perfect for relaxing after exploring the area.
The summer months are particularly pleasant for visiting Wheelton, as the Leeds and Liverpool Canal area becomes bustling with narrowboats. However, the rolling hills and woodland offer beauty year-round. For hiking, spring and autumn provide comfortable temperatures and vibrant scenery, though waterproofs and appropriate footwear are always recommended due to changeable weather.
Beyond the main attractions, explore Wheelton Plantation, a mixed woodland that contains ruins and remains of former farms and industries, offering an interesting exploration opportunity. The village itself, with its traditional stone cottages and converted barns, provides a charming, quintessentially English feel.
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of scenic beauty and historical significance. The superb views from viewpoints like Rivington Pike Tower and Darwen Tower are highly praised. Many also enjoy the easy walking trails around natural features such as Entwistle Reservoir and the historical insights offered by sites like the Wheelton Memorial Clock Tower.
Yes, for popular spots like Entwistle Reservoir, there is often plenty of free parking available, making it convenient for visitors to access the trails and scenic areas.
Generally, no permits are required for hiking on public footpaths and access land in the Wheelton area. The region offers open access to its moorlands and woodlands for walkers to enjoy freely.


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