Manchester Weekend Walkers lead public transport walks into fantastic countryside all year round.
If you haven’t yet visited Rivington Country Park, this is a perfect opportunity to go and see the lovely, terraced gardens, lakes and structures that remain from Lord Leverhulme’s wish to build (one of) his homes on this steep hillside where he could enjoy fresh air and invigorating walks. Our walk involves much climbing and descending - often on steps, but also on hillsides, as we explore the area. There are often sheep and cattle in the fields. We cross several stiles, a railway bridge and go over a motorway. There are a variety of path surfaces including some rocky, cobbled paths. On a good day we will have fabulous views of the Welsh hills, Blackpool Tower, and the surrounding area.
The park may be busy on a weekend.
Train-based walk
Leader: Imelda & Ian
Meet Point: In the lounge above platforms 13 & 14 at Piccadilly station. Alternatively, meet the group on the train or at the station in Blackrod.
Transport to Walk Start: 10:02 train from Manchester Piccadilly (final destination Blackpool North).
Suggested Ticket: Off-Peak Day Return to Blackrod £7.50. (At time of writing, a limited number of advance singles were available for £3 each way).
Walk Start: On platform 1 of Blackrod railway station at 10:35. The walk starts from platform as soon as the 10:33 arrival departs. If you drive, please do not wait in the car park as we leave from the footpath behind platform 1.
Waypoints: Footpath leading from platform 1, Rotary Way, Jepson's Bridge, Higher Derbyshire's, Rivington Pike, Pigeon Tower, Sheephouse Lane, Croft Bridge, the Castle and Jepson's Bridge to return via a similar route back to the station.
Return Services: x:42 until 18:42, x:10 until 23:10, then last train at 23:55.
Extra: No toilets at Walk Start, then none en route until 7 miles into the walk. Optional pub visit at the end of the walk at The Ridgeway Arms which also does food.
