Rivington Pike — Local services in Chorley

It started very well, was having a lovely walk with my son. We met some volunteers who are doing a fantastic job of restoring the site. But unfortunately the day was ruined when we were walking back to the car when we came across a sickening sight. A lowlife dog walker who had let his small wippet type dog off the lead was savageing a baby fawn, the owner just carried on walking. Another dog walker saw this happen and tried with me to save the fawn but we lost it in the undergrowth. We don't know if it survived. Shortly after this a young family walked past, how sickening would that have been for them to see. Would it make sense now to keep all dogs on a lead, it is this people who allow their dogs to foul everywhere and ruin such lovely places...

When I'm having a bad day, the climb up Rivington Pike always raises my spirits. Great views on a clear day towards Pendle Hill, Trough of Bowland then over to Preston, and the Welsh mountains in the far distance to the West. Nearby, there are the views over the reservoirs. Every visit is different, depending on the weather. It can be wild and raw on the top, so warm clothes and good boots are wise in the winter. There are many ways to access the Pike, but for fit visitors, park at Rivington Barn and climb up via the terraced gardens, passing the Japanese lake and keep climbing until the Pike and it's Tower come into view. This will really test your legs, but you'll find the...

I LOVE this place. Always makes me feel like I'm home. Only a mile-ish bottom to top but there's a choice of climbs so shorter, steeper or longer easier going. Final steps to the top can be a killer - but it worth it for the views: Blackpool to Manchester.

Going up takes you through the beautiful terraced gardens with old remains from the original house and gardens. There's a loo near the top, which is often closed, and one right at the bottom near the lower barn. You can get decent meals and refreshments from the lower barn too.

Treat yourself to some head space, fresh air, exercise and a coffee at...