Manchester Airport 43 min
Smithills Hall (21 min) One of Bolton's original family homes, with elements from different eras, set in formal gardens. National Trust Rufford Old Hall (26 min) Tudor manor visited by a young Shakespeare, with period furnishings and smart Victorian gardens. Martin Mere (34 min) Part of a wetland nature reserve, this shallow lake supports a wide variety of migratory birds. Go Ape Rivington (8 min) Adventure-activity chain venue where groups explore the forest canopy via a treetop rope course. Samlesbury Hall (20 min) Cosy huts & a cottage in a 14th-century manor house-turned-guesthouse offering dining & tours. Brockholes (18 min) Wetland and woodland nature reserve, home to rare bird species, with a floating visitor village. Yarrow Valley Country Park (10 min) 700-acre parkland with a lake, waterfall, adventure playground, cafe & visitor center. Pennington Flash Country Park (35 min) Country park featuring lakes & woods, plus paths, golfing, horseback riding & lots of birds. Winter Hill (35 min) This 1,496-ft.-high hill with sweeping views, burial mounds, cairns & the Scotsman's Stump memorial. Astley Hall (11 min) Set in a park with a Victorian garden, this landmark home features a history museum & art gallery. Rivington Pike (25 min) This 363-m. high hill features footpaths to the summit, a historic tower, benches & panoramic views. Hoghton Tower (18 min) Fortified Medieval hill-top manor house with gardens, kids' activities, monthly market and a shop. Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library (24 min) Building with Greek-themed murals and sculptures, displaying textiles/history/photography/fine art. Haigh Woodland Park (18 min) Large recreation area with wooded hiking trails, plus a rope course, miniature railway & golfing. WWT Martin Mere (33 min) Birds/wildlife haven with canoe-safaris, a beaver webcam, a themed play area and seasonal events. |