Attractions and Places To See around Woodplumpton - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Woodplumpton include a mix of historical landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites. The village, located in Lancashire, England, is characterized by its surrounding countryside, including Woodplumpton Brook and the Lancaster Canal. Visitors can explore historical buildings, nature reserves, and parks, offering diverse outdoor activities. The area provides opportunities for hiking and cycling through varied landscapes.
Best attractions and places to see around Woodplumpton
- The most popular attractions is Brockholes Nature Reserve, a…
Last updated: August 11, 2026
Brockholes Nature Reserve
Highlight • Lake
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Miller Park Fountain
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Ribble Link Staircase Locks and Holding Basin
Highlight • River
Tip1
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Haslam Park Nature Reserve
Highlight • Trail
Photo-Guide or Satnav through the Nature Reserve to Cottam Lane - Walk or 10min Cycle
The 3rd photo, P3, shows this highlight's location, red 2, beside Lancaster Canal bridge 15.
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Ribble Steam Railway
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Tips from the Community
Lots of hideaways to stop and admire the wildlife
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The Ribble Steam Railway is a standard gauge preserved railway in Lancashire, in the United Kingdom. It was opened to the public on 17 September 2005, running along Preston Docks
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of natural attractions can I explore around Woodplumpton?
Woodplumpton is surrounded by natural beauty. You can visit Brockholes Nature Reserve, a 250-acre site featuring ancient woodland, lakes, and wetlands, ideal for wildlife spotting. The village is also traversed by Woodplumpton Brook and the Lancaster Canal, both designated Wildlife Corridors. Additionally, the area boasts various woodlands, hedgerows, and small ponds, providing diverse habitats.
Are there historical landmarks to visit in Woodplumpton?
Yes, Woodplumpton has a rich history. A significant landmark is St Anne's Church, a Grade II listed building dating back to the 14th century. In its churchyard, you'll find the intriguing Meg Shelton's Witch's Grave, a site of local folklore. Nearby, you can also see historical artifacts like the Village Stocks, a mounting block, and an old gateway, offering a glimpse into the village's past.
What outdoor activities are available near Woodplumpton's attractions?
The countryside around Woodplumpton offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for cycling, mountain biking, and running. For example, there are easy MTB trails like the 'Brockholes Nature Reserve loop' and various cycling routes, including a loop from Broughton that passes Cartford Toll Bridge. For runners, running trails range from moderate loops around St Anne's to more challenging routes like the 'Masons Wood loop'.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in the area?
Absolutely. Brockholes Nature Reserve is highly recommended for families, offering trails, viewing points, and a floating café. Miller Park Fountain, with its landscaped gardens and exotic trees, is also family-friendly. The Cartford Toll Bridge and the Ribble Link Staircase Locks provide interesting sights for all ages, with opportunities to observe canal boats.
Can I find places with wheelchair access near Woodplumpton?
Yes, Miller Park Fountain in Preston is noted for being wheelchair accessible, offering landscaped paths for exploration. While specific accessibility details for all sites are not available, parks and nature reserves often have accessible sections.
Where can I observe canal boats and learn about local waterways?
The Ribble Link Staircase Locks and Holding Basin is an excellent spot to observe canal boats. This unique river feature connects the Lancaster Canal to Savick Brook and the River Ribble, allowing visitors to watch boats navigate a series of locks. The Lancaster Canal itself, which passes through Woodplumpton, also offers scenic views and opportunities to see canal activity.
What is the best time to visit Woodplumpton for outdoor activities?
The warmer months are generally ideal for outdoor activities around Woodplumpton. For instance, Brockholes Nature Reserve extends its opening hours during summer (6 am - 9 pm), offering more daylight for exploration. The surrounding countryside is perfect for hiking and cycling when the weather is mild.
Are there any local pubs or cafes near the attractions?
Yes, The Smiths Arms is the local pub in Woodplumpton, offering a community atmosphere. At Brockholes Nature Reserve, you can enjoy refreshments at their unique floating café and visitor center. Miller Park also has a popular café, perfect for a break during your visit.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in Woodplumpton?
The area around Woodplumpton is rich in wildlife, particularly at Brockholes Nature Reserve, which provides diverse habitats for varied wildlife, including breeding wading birds, osprey, otter, and bittern. The Woodplumpton Brook and Lancaster Canal are designated Wildlife Corridors, supporting various species. Woodlands, hedgerows, and numerous ponds also contribute to the local biodiversity.
Are there any unique historical buildings beyond the church?
Beyond St Anne's Church, Woodplumpton features several other historic buildings. Hollowforth Hall, primarily built in the 1850s, incorporates parts of an earlier 17th or 18th-century farmhouse. You can also find a 17th-century thatched cottage at Cuckstool Farm and other large farmhouses like Crow Hall, Midge Hall, Bartle Hall, and Swillbrook House, which date back to the 18th or early 19th centuries.
What is the significance of the Ribble Link Staircase Locks?
The Ribble Link Staircase Locks and Holding Basin is a crucial engineering feat that connects the Lancaster Canal to Savick Brook and the tidal waters of the River Ribble. Completed in 2002, it allows boats from the previously isolated Lancaster Canal to access other inland waterways, making it an interesting site for those interested in canal history and engineering.
Are there any parks with unique features near Woodplumpton?
Yes, Miller Park, located near Preston's center, is known for its listed water fountain, spiraling gardens, and exotic trees. Adjacent to it, Avenham Park features a distinctive Japanese Rock Garden, offering beautifully landscaped paths for visitors to explore.
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