When people think of Lancashire they often think of its famous coastal towns and cities, but it’s sometimes overlooked that 80% of the county is rural.
The diverse landscape is made up of beautiful countryside, moorland and waterways with a wide area to explore. One of the most visited natural features of the area surrounding our South Lakes Caravan Park are stunning waterfalls that can be found in both in the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales. However, Lancashire too has a collection of waterfalls, with many located within the Forest of Bowland. Many of the waterfalls have wonderful nearby trails that make them a walker’s paradise to visit.
We’ve put together a list of 8 waterfalls in Lancashire – perfect for discovery on your days out from Hawthorns Park.
Tarnbrook Wyre Waterfall
Tarnbrook Wyre Waterfall is located near Lancaster in Lancashire with a 13.2-km circular trail. This is a relatively challenging walking route that takes roughly 4 hours to finish. The peaceful walk is suitable to undertake all year-round, made up of riverside paths and woodlands. With a bit of scramble needed to reach the falls itself, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views of the cascading waters.
View this post on Instagram
Hatch Brook Waterfall
Hatch Brook is one of the smaller waterfalls in Lancashire which is best visited following rainfall. With the water flowing nicely this is an impressive waterfall to observe and photograph. As with most of the falls it’s advised to visit as part of a longer walk. The nearby area around the Wheelton Plantation provides a varied backdrop of historic ruins and woodland. Hatch Brook Waterfall is much easier to view from above but if you’re prepared to descend to the base for a closer look of the fall, extra care is needed.
View this post on Instagram
Hoghton Bottoms Weir
The weir at Hoghton Bottoms is one of Lancashire’s hidden gems, which is great for dog walkers and families. The waterfall walk is 4.65 miles in length and one of the easier walks, but can be muddy in places meaning appropriate footwear is advisable. Taking roughly 2 and a half hours to complete, the walk is set somewhat off the beaten track and has perfect picnic spots and a cosy nearby pub.
View this post on Instagram
Roach Bridge Weir
Roach Bridge Weir is an industrial revolution weir which can be seen when passing along the nearby road. Located near an old paper mill, the weir makes for an interesting spectacle to take a look whilst visiting other great places near Roach Bridge. The area is made up of fascinating villages, historic buildings, ancient ruins as well as streams and woodlands.
View this post on Instagram
Roddlesworth Waterfall
Roddlesworth Waterfall is beautiful little gem tucked away in woodland near Chorley in Lancashire. Like many of the waterfalls in the area it is connected to an enjoyable walking trail which requires appropriate footwear for the muddy parts. The Roddlesworth Reservoirs, waterfall and woodland are a beautiful place to visit anytime of the year and popular with dog walkers.
View this post on Instagram
Tiger’s Clough
Tiger’s Clough is a small waterfall situated near Rivington, Bolton. Access is obtained by completing a short walk through woodland which can be muddy in places. The beautiful waterfall of Tiger’s Clough is accompanied by Crooked Edge Waterfall which is smaller but close by. Be aware that when visiting the main public path doesn’t take visitors directly to the falls, so keep a look out for signs and be prepared to head slightly off the beaten track!
View this post on Instagram
We hope this guide has encouraged you to visit the waterfalls and trails in Lancashire. For more ideas and inspiration see our guide to exploring the Forest of Bowland and the spectacular waterfalls in the Lake District and must-see waterfalls in The Yorkshire Dales.
Header photo credit: James Johnstone on Flickr
Posted on