Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Login or Signup

Routes
Hikes
United Kingdom
England
North West England
Lancashire
Chorley

Charnock Richard

Easy hikes and walks around Charnock Richard

4.5

(1787)

15,950

hikers

642

hikes

Easy hiking trails around Charnock Richard traverse a varied landscape characterized by traditional farmland, woodlands, and waterways. The region features gentle pathways alongside the Leeds Liverpool Canal, the River Yarrow, and the River Douglas, offering tranquil routes. Elevated positions provide views of landmarks such as Winter Hill and Billinge Fells, though local hills are generally under 200m. Designated nature areas like Birley & Elnup Woods and Hic Bibi Nature Reserve contribute to the area's ecological importance and provide serene walking…

Last updated: May 19, 2026

3.7

(15)

49

hikers

#1.

Yarrow Valley Park loop from Birkacre

6.37km

01:41

60m

60m

The Yarrow Valley Park loop from Birkacre offers an easy hike through diverse scenery, perfect for a relaxed outing. You'll explore extensive woodlands, serene lakes like Big Lodge, and the…

Navigate with device

Send to Phone

Save

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
guide_signup
Let us show you the way with the komoot mobile app
With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

Sign up for free

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

26

hikers

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
Sign up for free to see 638 more hikes around Charnock Richard.

Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Tips from the Community

Midlife Cyclist
April 27, 2026, Birkacre Weir

Apparently fish jump up the weir

0

0

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 :)

0

0

This is not defined as an FP, BW, or Byway. Recently resurfaced (and now an easier descent by bike to the café). Beware of walkers & their dogs. Share with care :)

0

0

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

0

0

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

7

0

The land here that now forms Yarrow Valley Country Park was acquired by Chorley Council in the early 1980's. It's the site of the former cloth mills, then dyeing works and more recently a small colliery. None of the industry remains but there are interesting traces left including some of the foundation stones of the coal mines, the mill ponds and some machinery. There is a cafe and information centre on site.

0

0

51m
January 17, 2023, Birkacre Weir

Birkacre Weir was installed around 1800 to rise the water level and create a faster flowing river to turn the mill water wheels downstream. The fish ladder was installed in 2002 to allow salmon upstream to spawn.

0

0

Stephen
July 3, 2020, Birkacre Weir

Birkacre Weir was one of many weirs I encountered on my walk yesterday. It was there that I actually took a panorama shot taken from my phone for the first time. I actually have a camera as an alternative but I didn't bring it with me because I wanted to use my phone for a change. A word to the wise, the footpath going right by the weir can by very muddy especially after you get a lot of rain, so be sure to wear proper boots that have a good grip when you are squelching through mud. Parts of the path can be uneven so be extra careful as well.

0

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many easy hiking trails are available around Charnock Richard?

There are over 360 easy hiking trails around Charnock Richard, offering a wide variety of routes through diverse landscapes. In total, the area boasts more than 660 hiking routes for various ability levels.

What kind of landscape can I expect on easy hikes in Charnock Richard?

Easy hikes in Charnock Richard feature a varied landscape of traditional farmland, tranquil woodlands like Birley & Elnup Woods, and serene waterways. You'll find gentle pathways alongside the Leeds Liverpool Canal, the River Yarrow, and the River Douglas. Some elevated positions offer views of distant landmarks such as Winter Hill and Billinge Fells.

What makes the easy trails around Charnock Richard suitable for families?

The easy trails are generally characterized by gentle elevation changes and well-maintained paths, making them ideal for families. Many routes, especially within Yarrow Valley Country Park, are accessible and offer diverse scenery to keep children engaged.

Are the easy hiking trails around Charnock Richard suitable for dogs?

Yes, many easy hiking trails in Charnock Richard are dog-friendly. The region's extensive network of paths through woodlands, open countryside, and along canals provides plenty of opportunities for walks with your canine companion. Always remember to keep dogs under control, especially near livestock or in nature reserves.

Are there many circular easy walks in Charnock Richard?

Yes, Charnock Richard offers a good selection of circular easy walks. Routes like the Duck Pond loop from Coppull are popular choices, allowing you to start and finish at the same point without retracing your steps.

What is the typical length and duration of easy walks in Charnock Richard?

Easy walks in Charnock Richard vary in length, but many popular routes are between 2.5 to 4 miles (4 to 6.4 km). These typically take between 1 to 2 hours to complete at a leisurely pace, such as the Yarrow Valley Park loop from Birkacre which is 4 miles long and takes about 1 hour 41 minutes.

What natural features or landmarks can I see on easy hikes near Charnock Richard?

On easy hikes, you can explore natural features like the River Yarrow and River Douglas, and the tranquil Worthington Lakes. The Charnock Richard Pasture is also a recognized Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). For more distant views, some trails offer glimpses of Winter Hill and Rivington Pike Tower from elevated points.

Are there any historical sites or interesting attractions accessible from easy trails?

Yes, beyond the natural beauty, the area has historical significance. You might encounter Park Hall, a manor house dating back to the 10th century. Nearby, you can find attractions like Pigeon Tower (Dovecote Tower) and The Japanese Garden in Rivington, which add an intriguing historical dimension to your explorations.

What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Charnock Richard?

The easy trails in Charnock Richard are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1,600 reviews. Hikers often praise the quiet woodlands, well-marked paths, and the peaceful atmosphere of routes like the Birkacre Weir – Yarrow Valley Country Park loop from Coppull.

Is there parking available for easy hiking trails in Charnock Richard?

Yes, many trailheads for easy hikes in and around Charnock Richard offer convenient parking. For example, routes starting from Yarrow Valley Country Park typically have dedicated parking facilities. It's always a good idea to check specific route details for parking information before you go.

What is the best time of year to enjoy easy hikes in Charnock Richard?

Charnock Richard's easy hikes can be enjoyed year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer offers lush greenery, and autumn provides beautiful foliage. Even in winter, the gentle terrain makes for pleasant walks, though paths can be muddy, so appropriate footwear is recommended.

Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting on easy hikes?

Yes, the diverse landscapes of Charnock Richard, including woodlands, waterways, and nature reserves like Hic Bibi Nature Reserve, provide excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for various bird species, small mammals, and aquatic life along the rivers and canals.

Most popular routes around Charnock Richard

Road Cycling Routes around Charnock Richard

Most popular attractions around Charnock Richard

Places to see

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Browse the best Hikes in other regions.

RivingtonHeath CharnockAndertonWheeltonAnglezarkeWithnellCoppullBrindleUlnes WaltonHeapeyHoghtonMawdesleyWhittle-Le-WoodsCrostonEuxtonCuerdenAstley VillageEcclestonBrethertonClayton-Le-WoodsAdlingtonHeskin

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Euxton

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy