This is a walk we have done many times and a tradition on our trips to Bolton. We usually walk from Rivington to Belmont but walking to the Pike is challenge enough for most people

Few areas can surpass the natural beauty of the west pennine moors; England’s finest countryside is well-represented ranging from rugged hills, tranquil wooded valleys and outstanding scenery.

{1} We usually start our walk at the great house barn. There is ample parking, toilets, craft shop, and tearoom. Ensure your back is facing the entrance and turn right. Walk around the side of the building and cross the road, you will see a signpost to Rivington Hall Barn. Continue up to the top of the path, and then take the path around the left side of the barn.

{2} Behind the hall turn left up a path near the cottage, go through the gate and walk alongside the fence overlooking the Clough. Stay on the track going around the top of the Clough. You will see some steps {wooden} on your left and a path that ascend the steep hillside. Walk up that path crossing over the lane to the pigeon tower at the top of the terraced gardens.

{3} Turn right along the track at the top of the gardens, walk on for about 400m then turn left up the path toward the Pike. You won’t miss the tower and will keep it in view as you climb. For the final climb you must walk up almost a hundred stone steps that lead to the towers base. Now take a deep breath and enjoy magnificent views from all four corners of the summit

{4} Retrace your steps back down to the car park. This walk is around 3 miles and should take around two hours. We usually continue on across Rivington moor to Belmont for a pub lunch, it adds a further 3 miles to the walk but the scenery is awesome.

Points of interest: Rivington Hall. This Georgian building erected in 1780 is reputed to stand upon the site of an earlier hall of Saxon heritage.

Rivington Pike
Once the site of a warning beacon that was in use in the 12th century The Pike tower {1733} was used as a refuge for grouse shooting parties during bad weather. At Easter the pike is usually packed with picnickers and hikers and the popular Easter Saturday fell race is run from Horwich, my nephew has won first place three times.

Winter Hill
Identified by its myriad of masts is the highest point of the moor rising to 1496 ft above sea level. We usually pass by the communication buildings and can attest this stretch of the moor is one of the wettest. Thus, wear waterproof footwear even in summer.