Getting There
Leave the M61 at Junction 8 to take the A565 Southport/A49 Leyland, Northbound 1st exit, Southbound 3rd exit.
At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit signed Clayton le Woods A6. Enter Whittle le Woods. At a small roundabout take the 1st exit signed A6 Preston.
Pass a school on the left, and then immediately turn left into Factory Lane for the Cuerden Valley car park, which is almost hidden on the left. Don't be put off by the industrial buildings, the park is there.
Return to M61 Junction 8
Turn right at the main road. At the roundabout go straight on, signed A6 Chorley.
Take the 1st exit at the next roundabout signed M61 Manchester/M65 Blackburn to return to the M61.
Cuerden Valley Park
Length of walk: 30-40 minutes
Take the pathway at the far end of the parking area and continue onto a well maintained gravel pathway. The River Lostock will be on the right hand side.
Continue as far as the ‘ruins' on the right, and then bear right and cross a footbridge to head uphill through the kissing gate.
Turn round when you're ready and follow the path back to the car park.
The ruins are a mystery – were they Roman baths, or a Victorian railway station? If anyone knows the answer, please email me!
Facilities
Free parking. Dog poo bins.
Useful Links
Cuerden Valley Park
Visit website
This is MY favourite walk
Meg