Smithills Estate, an ancient woodland a few miles from Bolton town centre, offers a brisk autumn walk in nature with chances to spot birds and wildflowers, plus a step back in time ending at a nearby cosy pub.
History and wildlife of Smithills Estate
Spanning 1,700 acres, Smithills Estate is one of the largest sites acquired by The Woodland Trust in England. The area consists of moors, brooks and hills offering picturesque views, and historically served as vast agricultural land. In 1769, there were reported to be 14 farms on the estate, with the biggest said to be around 121 acres. After farming declined, the site became used for coal mining and stone quarrying, with remote cottages built to house workers nearby.
Popular sights include buzzards, common lizards, grey wagtails, barn owls, cuckoos, ravens and five species of bat, along with fungi, wildflowers and wild garlic. In 2018, a fire near the television mast on Winter Hill caused major destruction, with at least 31% of the site impacted by fire damage, affecting local wildlife. The Woodland Trust actively works to ensure a variety of habitats for species to nest and thrive.
Walking trails and historic landmarks
For ambitious hikers, the six-mile Smithills History Walk takes in views of Winter Hill and can take up to five hours. On Crooked Edge Hill, the Two Lads historic stone cairns date back to 1787 and are currently under restoration. For an easier option, the Barrow Bridge Trail lasts 30 minutes, venturing through woodland on the edge of Barrow Bridge village, with wild fungi visible in autumn. It includes a stroll through Dean Brook and High Shores Clough, plus the steep 63 steps first built in the 1830s for local mill workers; hiking boots are recommended.
Smithills Hall and nearby pub
Nearby Smithills Hall is one of the oldest manor houses in the North West and considered one of the best preserved. The Grade I-listed building features architecture from Medieval, Tudor and Victorian times. It is open 10am to 4pm Wednesday to Friday and 12pm to 4pm on Sunday, with free entry and a tea room.
The estate is also close to the family-run country pub Bob's Smithy Inn on Chorley Old Road (BL1 7PX). Dating back to the early 17th century, it offers views and cosy log fires. Serving food Wednesday through Sunday, its menu includes pies, steaks, fish and chips, salads, sandwiches and burgers, with a highly rated Sunday roast. Recent TripAdvisor reviewers praised the menu, with one person saying the food and service were 'of top restaurant quality', another calling it the 'best pub food I've ever had', and one calling it a 'lovely surprise' with 'great service and an excellent Sunday roast at a fair price'.
Smithills Estate is around three miles from Bolton centre, with its own car park on Walker Fold (BL6 6PR), open from 7.30am to 5.30pm during winter hours.
