A hidden waterfall is nestled at the back of beautiful country park an hour's drive from Manchester.
The secret water feature, which isn't clearly signposted, can be heard before it can be seen. It can be found by following a leaf-laded path through the woods at Yarrow Valley Country Park in Chorley.
Although it isn't technically a waterfall - it's officially Yarrow Valley Weir, one of three on the river - it is often mistaken for a waterfall due to its steep, dramatic water drop in into the river plunge pool below. If you plan on catching a glimpse, you'll have to do a some research beforehand as it's unlikely there will be any phone signal available to check in with Google Maps.
Read more: The Oldham pub named one of the best places to eat in the whole country - and it sells 1,500 gins
Alternatively, you could pop into the onsite visitor centre for directions. The 700-acre park, which features children's play areas, woodland and nature trails as well as the mysterious waterfall, is a great spot for a manageable walk at any time of year.
But autumn is when it really glows, boasting a patchwork of terrain and textures, from moss on the tree trunks to the low autumnal sunshine glittering on the ripples created by the ducks on the lake, reports LancsLive. You can take the roughly 7k circular trail and soak in the park's every nook and cranny and finish your visit with a peaceful pause on one of the lakeside picnic benches.
Apart from the distant hum of the M6 motorway in the distance reminding you urban life isn't too far away, Yarrow Valley feels rural and achieves an impressive tranquillity. There's a well-equipped Yarrow Rocks adventure playground for mini explorers and wooded sculptures to discover, with animals carved out of the wood.
Inside the visitor centre you'll find the Treeface café and information centre. The park is lovingly and expertly-maintained, with an army of volunteers contributing to its up keep and its is patrolled by rangers to keep visitors safe.
Wildlife love the park as much as humans, making it a favourite spot for bird-watchers. The park is just under an hour's drive from Manchester city centre, making it a perfect autumnal adventure for the family.
Read next:
