Wycoller Country Park: A Historic Lancashire Gem
Historic village and evocative ruins nestled in scenic Lancashire countryside, inspiring literature and offering tranquil walks.
Wycoller Country Park, located near Colne in Lancashire, England, is a picturesque rural park famed for its historic village, ancient bridges, and the evocative ruins of Wycoller Hall. The park offers a blend of woodland and farmland with numerous footpaths leading to scenic spots like Wycoller Beck and Bank House. Rich in history and literary connections, it is a tranquil escape with a well-preserved heritage and natural beauty.
A brief summary to Wycoller Country Park
- Wycoller Rd, Colne, BB8 8SY, GB
- +441282870253
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit the ruins of Wycoller Hall to experience a tangible connection to 16th-century English manor life and literary history.
- Explore the ancient bridges crossing Wycoller Beck, including Clam Bridge and Pack-Horse Bridge, each with unique stories.
- Use the designated car parks outside the village to preserve the peaceful atmosphere; parking is pay and display.
- Wear sturdy footwear to enjoy the varied footpaths through woodland and farmland, suitable for most walkers.
- Stop by the aisled barn exhibition for insights into the park’s history and the Brontë connection.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Picnic Areas
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Colne town center to Wycoller Country Park takes approximately 15-20 minutes. There are two pay and display car parks at Trawden Road and Howarth Road, charging around £1 per day, payable by card or phone. Vehicles are not permitted beyond the car parks to protect the village’s tranquility, except for registered disabled drivers.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Colne with nearby villages; from Colne, take a bus towards Trawden or Laneshawbridge, then walk approximately 2.5 km on rural footpaths to Wycoller. Bus journeys typically take 15-25 minutes, but services may be infrequent, so check schedules in advance.
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Walking
For those staying in Colne or nearby villages, walking to Wycoller Country Park is possible via well-marked footpaths through countryside terrain. Expect a moderately challenging walk of around 5-6 km, taking 1.5 to 2 hours, with some uneven ground and gentle slopes.
Wycoller Country Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Wycoller Country Park
A Village Frozen in Time
Wycoller Country Park centers around the quaint hamlet of Wycoller, a village with roots tracing back to at least the 10th century. Once a thriving sheep farming and weaving community from the 15th to 18th centuries, the village’s fortunes waned with the advent of power looms in the 19th century, leading to its near abandonment. Today, the village stands as a preserved conservation area, offering visitors a glimpse into rural Lancashire’s past with its remaining cottages, beck, and historic bridges.The Haunting Ruins of Wycoller Hall
At the heart of the park lie the evocative ruins of Wycoller Hall, a late 16th-century manor house built on the site of an earlier dwelling dating to 1507. Once the seat of the Hartley family and later the Cunliffes, the hall was a substantial three-storey building with grand rooms, kitchens, stables, and gardens. After falling into disrepair and stone plundering in the 19th century, the ruins became a scheduled monument and Grade II* listed site. The hall’s atmospheric remains are believed to have inspired Ferndean Manor in Charlotte Brontë’s novel "Jane Eyre," linking the site to literary heritage.Bridges Steeped in History
Wycoller Beck, which flows through the village, is crossed by several ancient bridges, some possibly over 1,000 years old. Notable among these is Clam Bridge, a simple single-slab structure listed as an Ancient Monument, and the twin-arched Pack-Horse Bridge, also known as Sally’s Bridge. The late 18th-century Clapper Bridge nearby bears the marks of weavers’ clogs, telling stories of the village’s weaving past. These bridges contribute to the park’s unique charm and historical significance.Natural Beauty and Outdoor Recreation
The park encompasses approximately 350 acres of mixed woodland and farmland, with a network of footpaths leading to scenic spots such as Bank House and View Point Rocks. The landscape is largely pastoral, devoted to sheep and cattle grazing, providing a tranquil setting for walking, wildlife watching, and picnicking. The beck’s gentle flow and the surrounding greenery create a peaceful atmosphere that appeals to nature lovers and photographers alike.Conservation and Community Efforts
Since the mid-20th century, local conservation groups like The Friends of Wycoller have worked to preserve the village and hall ruins. Ownership passed to Lancashire County Council in 1973, which designated the site a conservation area and country park. The aisled barn near the ruins now serves as an exhibition space, educating visitors about the village’s history and the hall’s significance. These efforts ensure the protection of Wycoller’s heritage for future generations.Visitor Amenities and Experience
Visitors to Wycoller Country Park can enjoy facilities such as picnic areas and toilets, with car parks located outside the village to protect its tranquility. The park’s peaceful environment, combined with its rich history and scenic trails, makes it an ideal destination for day trips, cultural heritage exploration, and outdoor recreation. Its literary connections add an additional layer of interest for fans of the Brontë sisters and English literature.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lumb Viaduct
24.0 km
Discover the historic Victorian Lumb Viaduct, a stunning railway landmark offering scenic walks and cycling across Lancashire’s Rossendale Valley.
Bradford City Hall
24.5 km
A majestic Victorian landmark in Bradford, blending stunning Venetian Gothic architecture with rich civic history and vibrant cultural life.
Peel Tower
27.5 km
Historic Peel Tower on Holcombe Hill offers panoramic views and a tribute to Sir Robert Peel’s legacy near Bury.
Wayoh Reservoir
29.8 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Wayoh Reservoir in Bolton, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Sussex Avenue
30.6 km
Discover the charm of Bury from Sussex Avenue, your convenient gateway to local attractions and experiences in this historic English town.
Rodley Nature Reserve
30.8 km
Explore the serene beauty and diverse wildlife of Rodley Nature Reserve, a hidden gem in Leeds perfect for nature lovers and birdwatching enthusiasts.
Bury Transport Museum
31.1 km
Explore the fascinating history of transport in the North West at Bury Transport Museum, a unique attraction for all ages.
Robert Peel Statue
31.1 km
Honouring Bury’s most famous son: the 1851 bronze statue of Sir Robert Peel, twice Prime Minister and founder of the modern police force.
Turton Tower
31.1 km
Explore the historical splendor of Turton Tower, a captivating heritage museum in Bolton, showcasing the beauty and stories of the past.
Samlesbury Hall
31.5 km
Experience the rich heritage and stunning architecture of Samlesbury Hall, a historical landmark, restaurant, and event venue in the heart of Lancashire.
The Coldstones Cut
31.6 km
A monumental outdoor sculpture blending art, heritage, and sweeping Nidderdale vistas in a dramatic natural setting.
Jumbles Country Park
31.8 km
Discover the tranquility of Jumbles Country Park, a stunning natural haven in Bolton ideal for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying wildlife.
Hoghton Tower
33.0 km
Discover the rich history and stunning beauty of Hoghton Tower, a captivating historical landmark in the heart of Lancashire, England.
Kirkstall Abbey
33.4 km
Explore the enchanting ruins of Kirkstall Abbey, where history and nature beautifully intertwine in a tranquil setting perfect for all travelers.
Tonge Hall
34.0 km
Discover Tonge Hall, a rare Elizabethan timber-framed manor in Middleton, blending Tudor grandeur with poignant history and ongoing restoration.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Atom - Panopticon
1.1 km
A futuristic pavilion framing stunning panoramic views above historic Wycoller village in the heart of Lancashire’s countryside.
West Yorkshire, North Yorkshire, and Lancashire Tri Point
4.4 km
Discover the quiet meeting place of West Yorkshire, North Yorkshire, and Lancashire where history and moorland landscapes converge.
Alkincoats Park
4.8 km
Discover Alkincoats Park, Colne’s historic and scenic green space offering gardens, sports, and family-friendly fun across 38 acres.
Marsden Park
5.1 km
Explore Marsden Park’s rich Tudor heritage, scenic gardens, and vibrant community spaces in the heart of Nelson, Lancashire.
Pendle Heritage Centre
6.4 km
Discover Lancashire’s heritage through historic architecture, witch trials lore, tranquil gardens, and local culture at Pendle Heritage Centre.
Barrowford Memorial Park
6.6 km
A peaceful memorial park in Nelson blending natural beauty, historic remembrance, and family-friendly recreation.
Top Withens
6.9 km
Discover the windswept moorland ruins that inspired Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights, a haunting symbol of literary heritage and rugged beauty.
Blacko Tower
7.2 km
A Victorian folly crowning Blacko Hill, Blacko Tower offers sweeping Lancashire views wrapped in history and mystery.
Queen Street Mill Textile Museum
7.4 km
Explore the world’s last steam-powered weaving mill and step back into Lancashire’s rich cotton industry heritage at Queen Street Mill Textile Museum.
Extwistle Hall
7.6 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Extwistle Hall, a 16th-century Tudor manor perched on Lancashire’s scenic moorland.
Victory Park
9.3 km
Historic green space in Barnoldswick honoring WWI fallen with peaceful paths, a junior cycleway, and community spirit for all ages.
Brontë Parsonage Museum
10.5 km
Step into the world of the Brontë sisters at their historic Haworth home, where literary masterpieces were born amidst the Yorkshire moors.
St Michael & All Angels Church, Haworth
10.6 km
Historic spiritual home of the Brontë family, blending rich literary heritage with stunning Victorian architecture in the heart of Haworth.
Charter Walk Shopping Centre
10.9 km
East Lancashire’s inclusive shopping hub with over 85 stores, sensory-friendly facilities, and a family-focused atmosphere in the heart of Burnley.
Haworth
11.0 km
Explore Haworth, the enchanting Yorkshire village where the Brontë sisters wrote timeless classics amid stunning moorland scenery and heritage steam trains.
Essential places to dine
Bertram's Restaurant
10.7 km
Sophisticated adult-only dining with creative British cuisine, cocktails, and stunning countryside views near Burnley.
The Cellar Restaurant
14.4 km
Historic charm meets traditional English cuisine in Padiham’s beloved Cellar Restaurant, where hearty meals and warm service await.
The Box Tree Restaurant
20.6 km
A historic fine dining gem in Ilkley, blending classical French techniques with modern European flair in a charming sandstone setting.
Gimbals Restaurant
20.9 km
Quirky, cozy Modern British dining with Mediterranean flair and warm, personalized service in the heart of Sowerby Bridge.
Artisan Ribble Valley
21.4 km
Experience Modern British cuisine in a stylish setting with local flavors, scenic terraces, and a vibrant cocktail bar in Billington, Clitheroe.
Restaurant Metamorphica
21.6 km
Exclusive fine dining in Haslingden offering innovative British tasting menus in an intimate, handcrafted setting by Chef Steven Halligan.
Northcote Hotel & Restaurant
22.4 km
Luxury country house hotel with Michelin-starred dining, elegant rooms, and tranquil Ribble Valley views for a refined countryside escape.
The Lister Arms
23.5 km
Historic 17th-century coaching inn in Malham offering cozy rooms, hearty local cuisine, and a welcoming pub atmosphere in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
The Secret Garden Bistro
23.7 km
A pioneering plant-based bistro in Malham offering innovative, sustainable dishes in a serene Yorkshire Dales setting.
Craven Arms Pub & Cruck Barn
24.1 km
Experience authentic Yorkshire Dales hospitality with hearty food, local ales, and rustic charm at Craven Arms Pub & Cruck Barn.
The Old Hall Inn
24.9 km
Historic charm and hearty Yorkshire hospitality await at The Old Hall Inn in the heart of Grassington village.
The Bonny Inn
25.5 km
Contemporary British pub with fresh local cuisine, vegan options, and stunning Ribble Valley views in a welcoming, modern setting.
Gibbon Bridge Hotel and Restaurant
29.0 km
Elegant four-star country hotel with fine dining, scenic gardens, and cozy suites nestled in the Forest of Bowland near Preston.
Angels Restaurant
29.5 km
Chic modern British dining in Ribchester’s Ribble Valley, blending seasonal local produce with elegant style and warm hospitality.
Grand Cru Restaurant
29.6 km
Experience luxurious modern British dining in a beautifully restored landmark with refined cuisine and warm, attentive service in Birkenshaw.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Old Rock Home & Gifts Shop
1.5 km
A charming village boutique offering unique gifts, homewares, and clothing with warm local hospitality in Trawden, Lancashire.
Witches Galore
10.3 km
A quirky, witch-themed gift shop in Newchurch-in-Pendle, packed with Pendle Witch memorabilia, magical curios and folklore souvenirs.
Quirky Gifts
19.7 km
Explore Accrington's most charming gift shop for unique, whimsical treasures that capture the spirit of your travels.
Grove Bookshop
20.6 km
A warm, independent bookshop in Ilkley’s heart, perfect for browsing new releases, children’s books, travel guides and local events.
C&K
26.4 km
A charming independent lifestyle store and café in Settle’s Market Place, blending boutique shopping with local flavors and welcoming ambiance.
All Things Quirky 4 U
28.9 km
A charming Etsy shop in a historic Huddersfield mill, filled with vintage accessories, handmade jewellery, and quirky gifts with personality.
Crissys Gifts For All Occasions
31.0 km
Explore Crissys Gifts For All Occasions in Blackburn for unique gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of your visit.
Our Handmade Collective
31.2 km
Discover unique, handcrafted treasures from over 110 local makers in a welcoming Horsforth boutique that celebrates creativity and quality.
Hidden Wardrobe - Cashmere scarves Leeds | Jewellery Shop | Gift Shop
31.7 km
Discover luxurious cashmere scarves and exquisite jewellery in Huddersfield’s historic Shambles at The Hidden Wardrobe boutique.
Little Town Farm Shop
31.8 km
Explore local flavors at Little Town Farm Shop, where fresh produce and artisanal goods await in the heart of Preston's countryside.
Uniquely Manchester Ltd
33.9 km
Explore Uniquely Manchester Ltd, where local craftsmanship meets the spirit of Manchester in an unforgettable gift shopping experience.
Uniquely Yours / Yorkshire Melts
34.7 km
Discover handcrafted wax melts and unique Yorkshire gifts in the heart of Armley, Leeds, blending artisan charm with local warmth.
Legs&Limpy
35.1 km
Whimsical threads for Leeds' lively souls: quirky clothing that moves with Headingley's beat in a cozy crescent hideaway.
Style LTT
35.1 km
Chic womenswear finds in Headingley's lively heart: soft, stylish pieces for every day, blending comfort and contemporary flair amid buzzing cafes and parks.
Flavour Like Fancy
35.3 km
Vibrant Headingley gift shop brimming with bold, handmade treasures from local UK makers—perfect for unique finds that spark joy and support indie creativity.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Kings Wine and Cocktail Bar and Thai at the Kings
18.9 km
A chic cocktail bar and authentic Thai restaurant in Clitheroe offering fresh flavors, elegant ambiance, and warm hospitality.
White Orchid Boutique Bar
19.8 km
Stylish boutique bar in Accrington offering quality drinks, cozy ambiance, and live music for a vibrant social experience.
The Buck Inn Malham
23.4 km
A rustic, welcoming pub and inn in Malham offering hearty fare and cozy rooms amid the stunning Yorkshire Dales landscape.
The Gamekeeper's Inn
25.8 km
A charming countryside inn blending rustic hospitality, comfortable stays, and delicious local cuisine in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
Settle Working Mens Club
26.3 km
Authentic local bar in Settle offering affordable drinks, vibrant community spirit, and a welcoming atmosphere in a historic market town setting.
Ribchester Arms
27.6 km
A charming Lancashire inn blending historic roots, hearty gastropub fare, and cozy comfort in the heart of Ribchester.
Old Mill
29.9 km
A charming riverside pub in Brighouse blending rustic British tradition with scenic views and hearty cuisine.
The Stage Door
32.4 km
A cozy, rustic bar and restaurant in Longridge offering expertly crafted cocktails, stone-baked pizzas, and a welcoming atmosphere for relaxed and lively nights.
The Blue Bell Inn
33.1 km
Historic 17th-century inn offering cozy rooms, hearty local fare, and a welcoming atmosphere in scenic Kettlewell, Yorkshire Dales.
The Nook & Cranny Bromley Cross
33.1 km
A cozy, community-focused tap house in Bromley Cross serving quality cask ales in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
G & P Events and Mobile Bars
33.2 km
Experience bespoke mobile bar services and event hospitality in the scenic heart of Kettlewell, blending professional expertise with rural charm.
The Plough Grimsargh
34.3 km
A friendly village pub in Grimsargh serving classic British dishes, excellent beers, and hosting lively community events in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Woodies Craft Ale House
34.9 km
Savor Yorkshire craft ales amid industrial chic at Headingley's go-to pub, where hearty grub, live tunes, and Otley Run vibes create unforgettable evenings.
The Three Horseshoes
34.9 km
Lively Headingley pub fueling the Otley Run with pizzas, roasts, live music, sports screens, and student spirit—your go-to for pints and pool.
Manahatta Headingley
35.1 km
A lively Headingley cocktail bar serving shareable plates, bold drinks and an easygoing, student-friendly atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Redroom Burnley
11.1 km
Experience Burnley’s vibrant nightlife with The Redroom’s lively music, diverse drinks, and late-night party atmosphere in the town centre.
Rendezvous Nightclub & Resteraunt
19.4 km
Vibrant nightclub and restaurant in Whalley offering lively weekend events, diverse music, and friendly service in Ribble Valley’s heart.
New Inn
35.0 km
Traditional Headingley pub with roaring fires, cask ales, and community spirit on lively Otley Road—a cozy cornerstone of Leeds life.
Level Nightclub
36.9 km
Experience Bolton’s vibrant nightlife at Level Nightclub, where dynamic music, affordable drinks, and lively atmosphere create unforgettable nights.
The Warehouse
37.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at The Warehouse, Leeds’ energetic club destination.
Popworld - Leeds
37.6 km
Relive noughties glory in Leeds' ultimate cheesy pop nightclub, where cocktails pop and dances don't stop till dawn.
Home Nightclub Leeds
37.7 km
Leeds' £2.5M superclub: VOID sound, pyrotechnic spectacles, multi-room vibes from house anthems to urban grooves—pure festival energy underground.
PRYZM
37.8 km
Leeds' multi-themed superclub where futuristic beats meet quirky rooms in the heart of Arena Quarter nightlife.
The Key Club
37.8 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
ULTRA
38.0 km
Experience Leeds’ vibrant nightlife at ULTRA, where electrifying beats and dynamic dance floors create unforgettable late-night memories.
The Space
38.0 km
Dive into Leeds' basement beats at The Space, where funky house and urban rhythms fuel non-stop dancing till dawn in a sleek underground haven.
The Lab Nightclub Leeds
38.0 km
Experience Leeds' electric nightlife at The Lab Nightclub, where music flows smoothly and the party never stops in the heart of the city.
The HiFi Club
38.1 km
Leeds' underground gem for live music, comedy stardom, and late-night grooves—independent vibes since 2000.
Baracoa Luxe Bar
38.1 km
Glamorous Call Lane haven blending luxe cocktails, beer garden chills, and pulsating club nights in Leeds' vibrant heart since 2010.
The Backroom
38.1 km
A chic speakeasy-style nightclub in Leeds with handcrafted cocktails, eclectic music, and vibrant weekend nightlife beneath a historic railway bridge.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly