Horwich is a vibrant town situated 5 miles north west of Bolton, covering an area of approximately 5 square miles.Situated in the rural setting of the West Pennine Moors, the panoramic views of the town are majestic and it is a haven for ramblers who can enjoy scenic walks and picnic areas in the most beautiful countryside.
Discover for yourself the paths and trails that wind their way through the picturesque countryside on the slopes below Rivington Pike. Experience the magnificent scenery of the surrounding area, including the majestic landscape near Rivington and Anglezarke Reservoirs around which the 2002 Commonwealth Games road cycle races were staged . Wander out of the historic town to the edges of the West Pennine Moors, with stunning views over theLocal landmarks include the Spirit of Sport, the largest piece of public art in the UK to be developed out of public consultation (it is almost a third taller than the Angel of the North). Standing at approximately 100 feet tall, the sculpture is constructed of stainless steel and has a 'golden' appearance with its surface 'tiled' with 600 etched images of sporting heroes. The Spirit of Sport is located at a site just off junction 6 of the M61 at the junction of De Havilland Way and Burnden Way and leads near to the Reebok Stadium (home of Bolton Wanderers Football Club), the Bolton Arena and Middlebrook Retail Park. Other landmarks include Rivington Pike, Rivington Barns, Lord Leverhulme's Gardens and Winter Hill.
Rivington Pike (http://www.bolton.org.uk/pike.html) Rivington Barn (www.rivingtonhallbarn.co.uk)
Terraced Garden Pigeon Tower
Indeed Horwich is built on the lush western slopes of the 1,496 feet tall Winter Hill. Standing proudly on top of the hill are various broadcasting masts, the most noteable of which is the television mast which, until recently, stood a further 1,015 feet into the air. It is now even higher as the latest technology means that more feet have been added by the erection of a digital antenna atop the mast.
Winter Hill (www.winterhill.org) Rivington Reservoirs
Middlebrook Retail and Leisure Park is close by. Middlebrook includes an ASDA superstore, Marks and Spencer, Boots, Next, Argos and many more. Middlebrook's leisure facilities include the 12 Screen Vue multiplex cinema and a 26 lane ten pin bowling alley.Places to eat and drink at Middlebrook include a variety of traditional and fast-food restaurants for all the family. Visit www.middlebrook-bolton.co.uk for more information.
Situated at Middlebrook is the magnificent £14.3 million sports and leisure complex of Bolton Arena opened to the public in April 2001. Since its opening not only has the Arena demonstrated to the World that it can host international events of the highest calibre, staging the Badminton competition of the 2002 Commonwealth Games, but it has become a major sporting facility for the Bolton community. Bolton Arena is available for use by every individual and business within the local community irrespective of their background or social status and all facilities are available on a pay and play basis with financial incentives for regular visitors. For more information on Bolton Arena visit www.boltonarena.co.uk
For more information on Horwich town visit www.horwich.gov.uk
Photographs courtesy of www.picturesdirect.co.uk
