Visitors to an historic Bolton estate should walk this way to find more about its fascinating past.
For not only can they take in the glorious views at Smithills Estate, but thanks to the work of volunteers, walkers can find out more about its history, the landmarks and key features, which dominate the spectacular landscape.
Toposcopes have been installed at key points on the estate, the largest site managed by the Woodland Trust, with directions and information to points of interest and notable landscapes.
They are placed at Two Lads Cairn, the Mass Trespass and Burnt Edge.
Roberta Gleaves, Engagement Communities Officer at Smithills Estate for the Woodland Trust said: “Smithills Estate is known for its breathtaking views, and on clear days, visitors can see as far as North Wales, the Isle of Man and the Southern Lake District.
"Therefore, we thought that it would be a great idea to help visitors identify the key features of the Estate visible on the horizon.
"The toposcopes feature information on the geology, natural history, and past use of the landscape.
“We have selected three locations for the toposcopes: Two Lads, Burnt Edge and The Trespass Stone.
"These areas are iconic and rich in history and offer great views of the surrounding landscape.
"The toposcopes have been funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the Burnt Edge stone structure was built in 2021 and kindly donated by long term, local supporter of The Woodland Trust, Ms Susan Hodgkiss, CBE DL.”
The Trespass Stone is situated on Coal Pit Road, where in 1896, ten thousand of people from Bolton marched demanding their right to use the road, the path to Winter Hill after landowner Colonel Ainsworth had locked the gate and posted 'keep out' signs.
From here walkers can "see a mix of historic features and a mosaic of habitats".
Alongside it is information on plans to restore the monument.
Two Lads Cairn is located on the steep climb up to Winter Hill, on part of Wilders Moor called Crooked Edge Hill.
It is a landmark that has been recorded on maps since 1787, is currently made up of one large cairn, another demolished cairn and a third very small construction of stones.
The monument has been vandalised and rebuilt a number of times, it is hoped that restoring it securely will deter vandalism and make it safer for visitors.
The Woodland Trust is working with Greater Manchester Archaeological Advisory Service and the local public on how to restore it.
What3Word locations:
Two Lads Toposcope
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Mass Trespass
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Burnt Edge
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If you would like to become a volunteer, please email: smithillsestate@woodlandtrust.org.uk
Pictures by Gillian McGowan
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