Best lakes around Shevington are primarily man-made reservoirs, forming part of the scenic Rivington chain, often referred to as "Lancashire's Little Lake District." These bodies of water are notable examples of the region's water infrastructure, supplying around 70,000 households in the Wigan area. They offer a wealth of recreational opportunities, making them a significant feature of the natural landscape near Shevington. The area's geography provides diverse environments for outdoor activities.
Last updated: July 11, 2026
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Yarrow Valley Country Park was first established in 1987 on land previously used for bleaching, dyeing, calico printing, and mining. Once industrial activity had ended, the site lay derelict for 30 years until the late 1980's when Chorley Council acquired the site. Yarrow Valley Country Park, a 700-acre facility run by Chorley Council, includes a café (treeface) built using Heritage Lottery funds. There is a play area for children, with a dog protection order, and also an angling agreement at Yarrow Valley Country Park, which gives the fishing rights at Birkacre to Wigan & District Angling Association (WDAA). Yarrow Valley Country Park has been awarded Green Flag status since 2004. The 'park' is used by (dog) walkers, runners & cyclists. Share with care :)
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this place really does have it all! be it hiking around the reservoirs up to the pike, gravel riding on the trails and the roads around the area are great. There are plenty of café there too. Also go wild or ape tree top and ariel slides if that's what your in too.
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Green route, make sure follow the map as we didn’t and got lost
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A nature reserve and coarse fishery, Orrell Water Park is open all-year round for residents, visitors and day ticket fishing. Beautiful woodland surrounds two disused reservoirs and is home to a diverse group of birds and insects, with over 100 bird species and a wide variety of butterflies, dragonflies and damselflies recorded. Trying to have a break or eat a sandwich is impossible here due to the ducks, geese and swans all trying to get to your food. A beautiful place with a coffee shop at the top which sells a few cakes etc but no toilets.
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This park has so much to offer beautiful lakes waterfalls many different routes which is great for the kids and dog walkers
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Beautiful lake to visit with a nice coffee shop at the top of the hill.
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The lakes around Shevington are primarily man-made reservoirs, forming part of the scenic Rivington chain, often referred to as "Lancashire's Little Lake District." You'll also find "flashes," which are lakes formed by mining subsidence, offering unique ecological features.
Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly activities. Scotman's Flash is great for water sports and has a canal towpath. Lower Rivington Reservoir offers hiking, gravel riding, and is near attractions like Go Ape. Yarrow Valley Country Park features lakes, waterfalls, and different routes suitable for kids and dog walkers, with a cafe and information centre. Orrell Water Park has a children's play area and woodland walks.
The Rivington chain offers diverse natural features. You can explore woodlands around Anglezarke Reservoir, enjoy views of Winter Hill and Rivington Pike from Upper Rivington Reservoir, and discover the extensive reed beds and rare plant species at Scotman's Flash, which is a designated site of scientific interest. Orrell Water Park is a nature reserve known for its diverse bird and insect life.
Yes, the Rivington area is rich in history. Near Lower Rivington Reservoir, you can find a replica of Liverpool Castle and explore the Rivington Terraced Gardens and Rivington Pike Tower. The reservoirs themselves are historical feats of engineering, built for the Liverpool Corporation Waterworks. Yarrow Valley Country Park is on the site of former cloth mills, dyeing works, and a small colliery, with traces of its industrial past still visible.
The area offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, cycling, and water sports like kayaking and sailing. For specific routes, consider exploring options for gravel biking, mountain biking, or easy hikes around the reservoirs and surrounding areas.
Absolutely. The Rivington chain, including Lower Rivington Reservoir, Upper Rivington Reservoir, and Anglezarke Reservoir, offers extensive public footpaths and woodland trails. These routes provide scenic views and connect to various attractions. You can find many options for easy hikes in the region.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity. Carr Mill Dam is a well-known fishing lake. Upper Rivington Reservoir and Anglezarke Reservoir are also popular for fishing, holding various species like bream, roach, perch, and pike. Day tickets and specific rules usually apply for these locations.
Many areas around the lakes are dog-friendly, especially the walking trails. For example, Carr Mill Dam and Yarrow Valley Country Park are noted as dog-friendly. Always keep dogs under control and be mindful of local signage, especially in nature reserve areas or near livestock.
You'll find several options for refreshments. The Rivington area, particularly near Lower Rivington Reservoir, has numerous cafes and even a microbrewery. Yarrow Valley Country Park has a cafe and information centre on site, and Orrell Water Park also features a lovely little cafe.
The lakes are enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer weather for water sports and longer walks. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, while winter can offer crisp, scenic walks, though some trails might get muddy. It's always a good idea to check local weather conditions before your visit.
Visitors frequently praise the diverse outdoor opportunities, from hiking and cycling to water sports. The scenic beauty, historical elements like the Rivington Terraced Gardens, and the presence of cafes and family-friendly facilities are often highlighted. The unique industrial legacy of places like Scotman's Flash and the natural habitats at Orrell Water Park also receive positive feedback.


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