Attractions and Places To See around Dutton - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Dutton include a variety of natural landscapes and historical sites. The region features diverse environments, from river confluences and nature reserves to historic colleges and fell summits. Dutton offers 20 hidden gems waiting to be explored, providing opportunities for outdoor activities and cultural discovery.
Best attractions and places to see around Dutton
- The most popular attractions is Brockholes Nature Reserve, a nature reserve that spans 250 acres with ancient woodland, lakes, and varied wildlife viewing points. It provides important habitats and features a floating cafe and visitor center.
- Another must-see spot is Hoghton Bottoms Weir and Viaduct, a waterfall and historical site. Visitors can expect a spectacular section of the River Darwen, featuring a picturesque sandstone gorge, a tumbling weir, and a 108-foot (33 m) high viaduct.
- Visitors also love Stonyhurst College, a historical site with architecturally significant buildings. The main building, Stonyhurst Hall, dates back to the 16th century and is a Grade 1 listed structure with a rich history.
- Dutton is known for historical sites, natural monuments, and nature reserves. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, catering to different interests.
- The attractions around Dutton are appreciated by the komoot community. These highlights have gathered 52 upvotes and feature 25 photos from visitors.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Trig point at Longridge Fell summit
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Brockholes Nature Reserve
Highlight • Lake
The reserve is open from 6am - 9pm during summer and until 7pm during winter. You can also bring your bike! Just bear in mind that you are only allowed to cycle on the Guild Wheel Cycle Route through the reserve. You can find more information, here: brockholes.org
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Stonyhurst College
Highlight • Historical Site
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Confluence of the Rivers Calder and Ribble
Highlight • Natural Monument
You can follow the Ribble to its dramatically situated source at Ribblehead, close to the eponymous viaduct, by hiking the Ribble Way, which passes by this spot. The Calder's source is on the moors above Burnley, not far from the source of the Irwell and West Yorkshire's own River Calder.
A ferry once operated near this spot and may have been the inspiration for Bucklebury Ferry in JRR Tolkien's 'The Fellowship of the Ring'. Tolkien regularly stayed at nearby Stonyhurst Cottage while he was working on his epic Lord of the Rings saga and there are many links between this part of the Ribble Valley and locations in the Shire.
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Hoghton Bottoms Weir and Viaduct
Highlight • Waterfall
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Tips from the Community
TP4535 - Longridge Fell | Trig Point | TrigpointingUK | TrigpointingUK https://share.google/z9V3FwjJe70qzF6sy
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any age can do this walk, was a really nice most flat, very enjoyable and had lunch in pub at end great day in all
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Lots of hideaways to stop and admire the wildlife
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Family friendly walk from Jeffrey Hill car park. Short, out and back route & a great spot for sunset.
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Private school with beautiful paths and lanes nearby. Close to the village of Hurst Green.
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The path at the side of the river is the Tolkien Trail, a lovely 11km loop which is generally fine to walk all year round.
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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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Stonyhurst is known for its historic and architecturally significant buildings. The main building, Stonyhurst Hall, dates back to the 16th century and is an impressive structure with a rich history.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural attractions can I explore around Dutton?
Dutton offers several natural highlights. You can visit Brockholes Nature Reserve, a 250-acre site with ancient woodland, lakes, and diverse wildlife. Another notable spot is the Confluence of the Rivers Calder and Ribble, a significant natural monument where two of Lancashire's great rivers meet.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks to see in the Dutton area?
Yes, the region is rich in history. You can explore Stonyhurst College, an impressive 16th-century Grade 1 listed building with a rich past. Additionally, Hoghton Bottoms Weir and Viaduct offers a blend of natural beauty and historical engineering, featuring a picturesque sandstone gorge and a towering viaduct.
What are some family-friendly activities available around Dutton?
For families, Brockholes Nature Reserve is an excellent choice, offering trails, wildlife viewing, and a floating cafe. The Confluence of the Rivers Calder and Ribble is also considered family-friendly, providing a scenic spot for a walk.
Where can I find good viewpoints or scenic spots in Dutton?
For panoramic views, head to the Trig point at Longridge Fell summit, which offers stunning vistas over the Forest of Bowland. The Confluence of the Rivers Calder and Ribble also provides a scenic viewpoint where you can observe the meeting of two rivers.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families near Dutton?
Yes, there are several easy hiking options. The "Longridge Fell loop" is an easy 5.8 km trail. You can find more details and other easy routes in the Hiking around Dutton guide.
What outdoor activities, besides sightseeing, can I do around Dutton?
Beyond visiting attractions, Dutton offers various outdoor activities. You can explore numerous hiking trails, enjoy road cycling routes, or go for a run on the running trails available in the area.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions near Dutton?
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural landscapes and historical significance. Highlights like Brockholes Nature Reserve are loved for their wildlife and facilities, while Hoghton Bottoms Weir and Viaduct is praised for its spectacular scenery and photo opportunities. The area's attractions have collectively gathered 52 upvotes and 25 photos from the komoot community.
Are there any attractions around Dutton that are good for cycling?
Yes, Brockholes Nature Reserve allows cycling on the Guild Wheel Cycle Route that passes through the reserve. For more dedicated cycling, you can explore various road cycling routes around Dutton.
Can I spot wildlife at the attractions in Dutton?
Absolutely. Brockholes Nature Reserve is specifically designed for wildlife viewing, offering important habitats for various species, including record numbers of breeding wading birds, osprey, otter, and bittern. At the Confluence of the Rivers Calder and Ribble, you might spot Goosanders during winter months.
What should I know about visiting Hoghton Bottoms Weir and Viaduct?
Hoghton Bottoms Weir and Viaduct is a spectacular spot for photography, featuring a picturesque sandstone gorge and a 108-foot high viaduct. Be aware that trails in this area can become very boggy after rainfall and during winter, so sturdy hiking boots are highly recommended.
Is there a connection to J.R.R. Tolkien in the Dutton area?
Yes, there's a fascinating local legend. Near the Confluence of the Rivers Calder and Ribble, a ferry once operated which may have inspired Bucklebury Ferry in J.R.R. Tolkien's 'The Fellowship of the Ring'. Tolkien frequently stayed at nearby Stonyhurst Cottage while working on his epic saga, and many links exist between this part of the Ribble Valley and locations in the Shire.
What kind of facilities are available at Brockholes Nature Reserve?
Brockholes Nature Reserve features a floating cafe and a visitor center, providing amenities for guests. It also has hides, paths, and viewing points designed for observing nature without disturbance.
Most popular attractions around Dutton
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