Posted: Friday 20th December 2024
January is a great time to wrap up warm, get outside and blow away the cobwebs after being bottled up at over the festive period. Here’s some of our favourite spots for getting that rosy glow and exploring Wigan Borough at its finest.
Pennington Flash Nature Reserve
Greater Manchester’s only National Nature Reserve, this is a popular spot for a beginner level circular walk (or cycle) around the Flash’s stunning lake. This precious wetland habitat was originally formed by the ‘flash’ flooding of a former coal mining site, and links up to Wigan’s canal towpath network.
Today, it’s a great spot for observing wildlife and you can often spot members of the local boating club out on the water. The Hide Coffee House offers a variety warm drinks alongside sweet and savoury treats for all ages, while younger visitors can enjoy wandering around the impressive wildlife themed playground or feeding the lake’s extensive bird population.
Haigh Woodland Park
The magnificent Haigh Woodland Park is a wonderful place to go walking, or to enjoy a fun day out with all the family.
With more than 250 acres of park and enchanting ancient woodland to explore, including the peaceful paths of the plantation woodlands, there’s plenty to explore.
There are variety of suggested walks available on the Haigh Woodland Park website (external link) for all abilities including trails that focus on the fascinating history of the site.
We can’t finish a walk here without mentioning the delicious food and drink options available in the Haigh Courtyard including fresh hand-pulled pizza and fully licensed bar at Two Left Tap, and the best Hot Chocolate around courtesy of Luisco – the perfect way to warm up after a trundle around!
Borsdane Woods
This ancient woodland is believed to be more than 400 years old and has largely remained unchanged for centuries. It’s home to a wide variety of wildlife.
The wood was Wigan's first Local Nature Reserve. There are well-marked trails which vary in length and difficulty, catering to different preferences and fitness levels.
The beauty spot is particularly popular with professional and amateur photographers too, if you’re looking to get your Instagram feed off to an inspiring start this year.
Orrell Water Park and Billinge Hill
Home to over 100 bird species, this beautiful woodland features easy well-maintained paths surrounding two disused reservoirs.
There is also a children’s play area and free parking available on site.
If you’re up for a challenge you can extend your walk head south to climb Billinge Hill (external link) which is the highest point around with impressive views over Wigan, Liverpool and Manchester… You can see as far as Wales and Blackpool Tower on a clear day, so it’s always worth packing your binoculars.
Find out more about Wigan Borough’s green spaces (external link).