Rivington Pike: A walk through the terraced gardens

Tucked into the western edge of the West Pennine Moors, Rivington Pike offers one of Lancashire’s most rewarding short hikes — a blend of wild moorland views, fascinating history, and unexpected bursts of beauty. The route through the Japanese Terraced Gardens is the most enchanting way up: a walk that feels part adventure, part time capsule.

Starting near Rivington Hall Barn, the trail winds gently through old woodland before revealing the remains of Lord Leverhulme’s early-20th-century estate. The Japanese Gardens, though softened by a century of nature’s reclaiming, still hint at their former grandeur — ornamental lakes, stone lanterns, and winding terraces hidden beneath oak and rhododendron. The mix of serenity and decay creates a unique, almost otherworldly atmosphere that makes this route far more memorable than a straightforward moorland climb.

As the path climbs higher, the trees thin and open onto wide moorland slopes, leading up to the unmistakable Pike Tower — a small stone lookout that’s stood sentinel over Lancashire since the 170`0s. From the top, you’re treated to expansive views: the Lancashire Plain, Winter Hill, and on a clear day, even the glint of the Irish Sea beyond Blackpool Tower.

The combination of varied scenery, historical intrigue, and easily accessible trails makes this a true local gem. In the space of a couple of hours, you pass from cultivated gardens to rugged heath, walking through layers of history as the landscape opens around you. For a short hike with big rewards, Rivington Pike never disappoints.

Rivington Pike and Terraced Gardens route description

Starting out on Roynton Road just follow the road straight up. Shortly you will reach a fork with a metal gate to the left. Ignore this gate and go straight ahead. The road turns to cobbles and continues towards the Japanese Lake. Before then there is an access gate to the left which is sign posted as Rivington Gardens. We took this route through the woodland. The path winds round slightly and you cross over a bridge. Further along there are some steps that lead to a finger post. Follow the direction towards the Japanese Lake. After about five minutes you will reach a stone archway. Head through the archway and you will find yourself at the Japanese Lake.

Walk around the lake and up the steps to the right. You are now in the Kitchen Gardens. Spend a few minutes reading the information board here to understand how much of a mystery these gardens remain. Continue across the ‘Tennis Lawn’ and up the steps which will lead you towards the HPR site office. At the HPR site office you will be able to see Rivington Pike Tower. Go through the gate and follow the path upwards towards the tower. A short walk will see you reach the tower and be rewarded with some of the best views in the North West (weather depending). There are benches if you fancy a sit down or have brought some snacks with you.

There are several ways to make your way back down or even extend the walk further if you prefer. This route follows the path down through a working farm. From the tower follow the path down and cross at Belmont Road, going through the gate onto a working farm. Please be aware if you have a dog with you to keep it on a lead as there are live cattle grazing. The route will bring you back around to Roynton Road, close to the school and the start of the walk.

Where to eat and drink after walking Rivington Pike

There are several pubs close to the start of this walk such as The Old Original Bay Horse or The Crown. If you are looking for more of a restaurant vibe The Cherry Tree in Blackrod is only a few minutes away by car. Voted Bolton’s best restaurant in 2020 The Cherry Tree offers an impressive menu including a selection of garlic bread & nibbles starting from £6.95.

Main courses range from roasted chicken & pulled ham hock pot pie, truffled buttered greens with bacon, hand cut chips (£14.95) to Malaysian duck & sweet potato curry, pan seared breast, confit leg, sticky coconut rice, braised pak-choi, chilli sambal, crispy prawn crackers (£24.95). If pizza is your thing you can’t go wrong with one of the hand stretched sour dough options starting from £11.95 for a classic cheese and tomato Margherita.

There is also an impressive dessert menu which includes classic favourites such as sticky toffee pudding (£7.50), white chocolate and strawberry cheesecake (£7.95) as well as offering a range of dessert cocktails.