Bolton's hidden gems to explore this bank holiday weekend

It is no secret that the region has some of the most scenic spots in the region, Rivington for example and of course the many country parks but there are plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered - and none of them cost a penny to visit.

Here are just a few examples of places waiting to be explored this bank holiday, and always remember the countryside code.

Waterfall:

Bolton is home to a number of stunning secret cascades, all different but equally as enchanting, and worth exploring this summer.

Hidden in Rivington is is Tigers Clough Falls, loved by locals, and remains pretty much a hidden gem.

The picture above is by Pete Kennington.

Yet it is only a short walk from the Rivington Reservoir car park and through a wooded ravine.

Picture taken in Egerton by Will Bartle

Magical woodland

Wilderswood Plantation in Horwich is simply a magical woodland walk - for all seasons.

It lies on the southern flank of Winter Hill, south of George's Lane, near Rivington Pike.

There is a small car park on the corner of George's Lane and Old Rake Lane.

According to the website About Rivington, it is said the name is linked with the legend of Two Lads who where “bewildered” and died in the snow on the moors above long ago.

The land surrounding here was part of the medieaval “forest”.

It is described as a 'great little gem of a place'.

Find about more about this place at https://www.about-rivington.co.uk/explore/wilderswood/

And for fans of Harry Potter a wander into the enchanting woodland walk in Harwood really does have an air of magic.

The Millennium Wood in Harwood is home to a tree which could have come straight from the pages of Harry Potter.

So much so that local residents have named it the ‘Harry Potter Whomping Willow’ .

The wood can be found sitting between Longsight Park and Harwood Vale.

Picture by Will Bartle taken in Egerton

Village walks

Egerton Village has a timeless charm with parts of its designated a conservation area to protect the character of the village.

Walking down its winding lanes, historic Grade II buildings reflect a bygone era.

It is home to Egerton Cricket Ground, Egerton Park, the grounds of Egerton House and Christ Church.

There is also the Reservoir Of Dean Mills, The Turton Reservoirs, Turton and Entwistle Reservoir, Jumbles Reservoir, Wayoh Reservoir, Rivington Lakes And Reservoirs, and Yarrow Reservoir all nearby.

Edgworth is another charming village to explore, with its country lanes, brooks and wooded areas.

Traditional pubs in the area are the perfect place to watch the world go by in two of the prettiest villages around.