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
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…
4.2
(6)
54
hikers
5.40km
01:26
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.4
(7)
31
hikers
7.46km
01:59
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
17
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
26
hikers
4.09km
01:03
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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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 :)
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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 :)
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Green route, make sure follow the map as we didn’t and got lost
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This park has so much to offer beautiful lakes waterfalls many different routes which is great for the kids and dog walkers
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.


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