Best attractions and places to see around Barton include a variety of natural features and man-made landmarks. The region offers diverse landscapes, from expansive nature reserves with wetlands and woodlands to historic parks and waterways. Visitors can explore areas along the River Ribble, which flows through the local terrain. These locations provide opportunities for walks and observing local wildlife.
Last updated: August 13, 2026
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Lots of hideaways to stop and admire the wildlife
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Brockholes was previously a major quarry extraction site. The land was bought by the Trust in January 2007, and the reserve opened to the public at Easter 2011. It has been regenerated as a mosaic of key habitats such as pools, reedbeds and woodland. The reserve is aimed less at dedicated bird-watchers and nature lovers than the general public of the big cities. The riverbank is covered in steaming ferns and rampant Himalayan balsam. Brockholes offers a wide range of events throughout the year and over 250 acres of trails and hides. It has already seen record numbers of breeding wading birds along with visitors such as osprey, otter and bittern. Now it's a beautiful nature reserve with amazing wildlife.
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Avenham & the neighbouring Miller Park lie along the river Ribble on the southern edge of Preston. It was created in the 1860's and has a famous Japanese Rock Garden with unusual ornamental plants & beautiful water features. The riverside path, parkland trails and larger park on the other side of the river make a great place to run. The Preston parkrun is held here every Saturday at 9:00. The junior parkrun takes place every Sunday at 9:00.
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The Ribble Steam railway is a standard gauge preserved railway in Lancashire. It was opened in 2005 and runs along Preston Docks. Here you can see both the railway and views of the river Ribble.
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Tip6 How To View In Split-Screen Note: an alternative to split-screen is to view on 2 devices, e.g. laptop and mobile. Instructions: (a) an Android phone (b) a Windows PC View the photo slideshow on one half of the screen and the description on the other - scroll the two halves independently to compare a photo with e.g. the description in Tip1. If using a tablet/mobile, view the description in the Komoot website and the photos in the app - easier to pinch-zoom to see different parts of photo more clearly. (a) Video Instructions - an Android Phone If viewing this in the Komoot website then tap the image below for a video on how to use a split-screen. If you are viewing this tip in the Komoot app then tapping the image to start the video will not work. Instead, click the link that will display here on the app page. https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=43NuPS5Juxg On a mobile phone it's better to view the video in landscape. A split-screen should work on most Android devices. (b) Instructions for Windows Easy to do in Windows 10/11. You have a choice - you can open the same webpage in two different web browsers displayed on the two halves of the screen or open the same webpage using a single web browser in two windows on the two halves. The instructions below are minimal. For a more detailed explanation see Comment10 in this link: https://www.komoot.com/tour/610244459 These instructions use a single web browser, e.g. Chrome. 1) First open this webpage on your Windows PC, maximise it and scroll to these instructions. Copy the web address. You will need to paste it - see below. 2) Locate this browser's tab on the taskbar. Opposite click on it and click 'Open new window'. When opened then maximise it if necessary and paste the web address into the new window and scroll to these instructions so that you can continue to follow them. 3) Press and hold the Windows key and press the left arrow key. The active window will move the left side of the split screen. 4) You should now see the right hand half of the first window. Click that window to display it 'on top'. These instructions should still be visible on the right. Check that it is full screen. Press and hold the Windows key again and press the right arrow key. 5) The two windows should now display, left and right. You may need to make a small adjustment (drag) if the windows overlap slightly at the join. Scroll one window to display the photos and the other for the photo descriptions in Tip1.
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Tip5 Haslam Park Nature Reserve Description The nature reserve is wooded grassland with mostly narrow, dirt or gravel paths. This route through the western part is rarely visited by cyclists. You may see walkers with dogs. In wet weather the paths can be muddy - manageable on a road bike - fat tyres may help. After a period of wet weather the route is very muddy on about 15 metres alongside Savick Brook before the bridge (photo P10) - you may have to dismount and push. About 15 metres of boardwalk would help. That same stretch is bumpy with tree roots. Take care. If cycling with children, take care beside the brook and when crossing the bridge over the brook on the route described above. You may not immediately see the brook through the trees and so not realise that the sometimes muddy, slippery ground at the side of the track is the bank of a river. Unlike the other bridges across the brook, this bridge has no safety barriers at the sides.
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Barton offers several natural attractions. The most popular is Brockholes Nature Reserve, a 250-acre site with ancient woodland, lakes, and diverse wildlife. You can also visit Haslam Park Nature Reserve, which features grassland, forest, and river areas perfect for walks.
Yes, the area features notable man-made landmarks. You can visit the Miller Park Fountain, a listed water fountain within Miller Park near Preston, known for its landscaped gardens. Another historic structure is the Cartford Toll Bridge, an operational toll bridge crossing the River Wyre.
For families, Brockholes Nature Reserve is an excellent choice, offering trails, wildlife viewing, and a floating visitor center with a cafe. Miller Park Fountain and its surrounding park also provide a pleasant environment for family strolls with landscaped gardens and open spaces. Haslam Park Nature Reserve is another good option for easy walks.
Many attractions, like Brockholes Nature Reserve and Haslam Park Nature Reserve, have their own trails. For more extensive hiking options, you can explore routes like the 'Hiking loop from Myerscough and Bilsborrow' or the 'Brock Stream loop'. Find more details and routes at Hiking around Barton.
Yes, the area around Barton is popular for cycling. Brockholes Nature Reserve has sections of the Guild Wheel Cycle Route. You can also find routes like the 'Cartford Bridge β Lane Ends Nature Reserve loop' or 'Bluebell Way Alternative Route'. Discover more cycling options at Cycling around Barton and Road Cycling Routes around Barton.
The Ribble Link Staircase Locks and Holding Basin is an impressive man-made structure that connects the Lancaster Canal to the River Ribble via Savick Brook. It's a fascinating spot to observe canal boats navigating the locks and offers scenic views along the waterway.
Yes, Miller Park Fountain and the surrounding Miller Park are noted as wheelchair accessible, offering paved paths and facilities for visitors with mobility needs.
While specific dog policies vary, nature reserves like Brockholes Nature Reserve often have designated areas or rules for dogs, typically requiring them to be on a lead. Parks such as Miller Park are generally dog-friendly. Always check individual attraction guidelines before visiting.
Yes, Brockholes Nature Reserve features a floating visitor village with a lakeside restaurant and shop. Miller Park, home to the Miller Park Fountain, also has a popular cafe. These provide convenient spots for refreshments during your visit.
Visitors frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from the wetlands and woodlands of Brockholes Nature Reserve to the historic charm of Miller Park Fountain. The opportunity for wildlife observation, peaceful walks, and the blend of natural beauty with interesting man-made structures like the Cartford Toll Bridge are highly appreciated.
Yes, attractions like Miller Park Fountain and the surrounding Miller Park offer parking facilities. For nature reserves such as Brockholes Nature Reserve, dedicated parking is available for visitors.


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