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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Entertainment
Paige Oldfield

The picturesque Greater Manchester village with fairytale cottages and a stunning walking trail

On the outskirts of Greater Manchester lies the small but picturesque village of Barrow Bridge.

The village, which can be found just three miles north of Bolton, has an abundance of character and charm thanks to its cosy cottages and rural feel.

It’s also home to some of the most sought-after homes in the borough.

Nestled within the Smithills Estate, the largest Woodland Trust site in England, the village was once a model community village for around 1,000 mill workers.

Constructed during the Industrial Revolution, the industrial village was largely created by cotton mill owners John and Robert Lord.

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And although the cotton mills have long gone, the attractive workers’ cottages can still be seen today next to a small stream. One chimney also still stands as a monument to its past.

The village formerly included a row of cottages, a shop and an educational institute.

Houses for the managers were built a short distance away, overlooking the brook.

Barrow Bridge is also known for its famous 63 steps, which mill workers would have climbed every day to get to work.

Today, they lead visitors up onto the beautiful West Pennine Moors.

Barrow Bridge is also known for the Barrow Bridge trail – a short, 30-minute trek which takes walkers through beautiful woodland.

Barrow Bridge Road, Bolton (Geograph.org.uk | Phillip Platt)

The walk can be enjoyed in spring or summer to take in the beauty of the wildflowers or autumn and winter for the fungi.

A stroll along Dean Brook will take walkers through the tranquil High Shores Clough.

The famous 63 steps are considered to be steep and the paths can get muddy, so walking boots are recommended.

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