Moses Gate Country Park: Bolton’s Expansive Nature Haven
Explore Bolton’s largest nature reserve with lakes, woodlands, wildlife, and family-friendly trails at Moses Gate Country Park.
Moses Gate Country Park is a sprawling 750-acre nature reserve in Farnworth, Bolton, offering serene woodland, three large lakes, riverside trails, and a vibrant habitat for migratory birds and wildlife. Visitors enjoy scenic walks, a well-equipped children’s play area, fishing, canoeing, and peaceful picnic spots amidst diverse natural beauty.
A brief summary to Moses Gate Country Park
- Country Park, Hall Ln, Bolton, Farnworth, BL4 7QS, GB
- +441204333333
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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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
- Bring bread to feed the swans and wildfowl at the lakes, enhancing your wildlife experience.
- Visit the Rock Hall Visitor Centre and bird hide for close-up views of migratory birds and nature.
- Use the tarmac paths for easy walking or wheelchair access, especially around the play area and lakes.
- Explore the Kingfisher Way trail for extended walks connecting Moses Gate to nearby parks and reservoirs.
- Check out the inclusive children’s play equipment, designed for toddlers and juniors with safety surfacing themed on local wildlife.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Local bus services from Bolton town center to Farnworth run regularly, with a journey time of approximately 20-30 minutes. The stop near Hall Lane provides convenient access to the park entrance. Tickets cost around £3-£5 for a single fare. Service frequency may vary on weekends.
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Car
Driving from Bolton town center takes about 10-15 minutes via main roads. There is ample parking available at the park, including designated disabled spaces near the lakes. Parking is free but can fill up on weekends and holidays.
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Cycling
Cyclists can reach Moses Gate via regional cycle routes including the Kingfisher Way. The terrain is mostly flat with paved and gravel paths suitable for most bicycles. Secure bike parking is available near the visitor centre.
Moses Gate 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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Cold Weather
Discover more about Moses Gate Country Park
Vast Natural Landscape and Waterways
Moses Gate Country Park covers an impressive 750 acres (300 hectares) in the Croal and Irwell Valleys, making it Bolton’s largest nature reserve. The park features three large lakes, known as lodges, originally mill ponds supplying water to local industry. These lodges serve distinct purposes: one is a protected sanctuary for migratory birds and wildlife, another is designated for fishing, and the third supports water sports such as canoeing. The park is bordered by the River Croal and the River Irwell, with scenic riverside paths that connect to nearby green spaces, including Clifton Country Park.Rich Wildlife and Ecological Significance
The park’s lakes and woodlands attract a wide variety of bird species, including swans, geese, and many migratory birds, making it a favored spot for birdwatchers. The nature reserve also supports diverse flora such as Northern Marsh orchids and Early Marsh orchids, alongside other wildflowers and native plants. Amphibians like the protected great crested newt thrive here, and visitors may spot roe deer and abundant dragonflies. The park’s commitment to conservation is evident in its status as a Local Nature Reserve, with habitats carefully managed to support wildlife.Recreational Facilities and Visitor Amenities
Moses Gate offers miles of well-maintained, mostly tarmac-surfaced paths suitable for walking, cycling, and wheelchair access. A large, modern play area caters to children of all ages, featuring inclusive equipment such as toddler swings, see-saws, multi-play frames, and spring riders. The play area’s safety surfacing is artistically designed to depict the life cycle of frogs, adding educational value. The Rock Hall Visitor Centre provides information and overlooks a bird hide, allowing visitors to observe wildlife in a naturalistic setting. Picnic benches and open parkland provide ideal spots for relaxation and family outings.Historical Roots and Industrial Heritage
The park’s landscape is shaped by its industrial past, with reclaimed land from former mine workings and remnants of Crompton’s Paper Mill, once a bleach works until its demolition in 1972. The area’s name, Moses Gate, derives from Old English, meaning a way through marshy lands, reflecting the park’s wetland origins. The Manchester, Bolton and Bury Canal, partially preserved within the park, adds a historical dimension, tracing the region’s industrial development alongside its natural beauty.Engaging Trails and Outdoor Activities
Visitors can explore numerous nature trails, bridleways, and cycling routes that wind through woodlands and alongside waterways. The Kingfisher Way, an 11 km trail passing through Moses Gate, links it to other regional parks and reservoirs, offering extended hiking opportunities. The park also supports horse riding and model aircraft flying, catering to diverse outdoor interests. Seasonal events and wildlife spotting opportunities enhance the visitor experience throughout the year.Community and Environmental Stewardship
Managed by Bolton Metropolitan Borough Council, Moses Gate Country Park exemplifies a balance between public recreation and environmental protection. The park encourages responsible enjoyment of its natural assets, with accessible facilities and educational displays promoting awareness of local wildlife and habitats. Its open year-round status allows visitors to experience the changing seasons in a tranquil, scenic setting just a few miles from Bolton’s urban center.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Robert Peel Statue
7.0 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.
Heaton Park Papal Monument
9.1 km
A granite testament to faith and history where 200,000 gathered for a papal milestone in 1982.
Sussex Avenue
9.3 km
Discover the charm of Bury from Sussex Avenue, your convenient gateway to local attractions and experiences in this historic English town.
Manchester Old Town Hall Colonnade
9.4 km
A neoclassical relic of Manchester’s first Town Hall, relocated and preserved as a serene monument in Heaton Park.
Wayoh Reservoir
9.5 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Wayoh Reservoir in Bolton, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Heaton Park Temple
9.5 km
Discover the tranquil neoclassical Heaton Park Temple, perched atop Manchester’s largest park with stunning city views and rich historic charm.
Peel Tower
9.7 km
Historic Peel Tower on Holcombe Hill offers panoramic views and a tribute to Sir Robert Peel’s legacy near Bury.
Barton Swing Aqueduct
9.9 km
Explore the world’s only swing aqueduct, a Victorian engineering marvel carrying the Bridgewater Canal over the Manchester Ship Canal since 1894.
Sussex Close
11.5 km
Discover the charm of Wigan through Sussex Close, your essential bus stop to explore local attractions and immerse in the vibrant culture.
Rivington Pike Tower
11.9 km
Historic 18th-century hunting lodge atop Rivington Pike offering panoramic Lancashire views and rich cultural heritage within scenic Lever Park.
Rivington Pike
12.0 km
Discover the breathtaking views and rich history at Rivington Pike, a perfect hiking destination in Lancashire for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Salford Lads Club
12.1 km
A Victorian youth sanctuary where music history, social purpose, and community spirit converge.
Sky Hook Statue 1
12.8 km
Towering steel sculptures marking Trafford Park’s industrial heritage with humor and monumental design.
Bahnhof Manchester
12.8 km
Manchester Piccadilly Station – Historic gateway and bustling hub connecting Manchester to the UK and beyond.
Liverpool Castle
12.8 km
A hauntingly beautiful early 20th-century folly replicating medieval Liverpool Castle ruins, set dramatically above Lower Rivington Reservoir.
Unmissable attractions to see
Victoria Sq
3.3 km
Victoria Square is Bolton’s iconic civic hub where historic grandeur meets lively community spirit in the heart of the town.
Market Place Shopping Centre
3.5 km
Historic charm meets modern shopping and entertainment at Bolton’s Market Place Shopping Centre, a vibrant hub for all ages.
Hall i' th' Wood Museum
4.8 km
A rare Tudor manor house in Bolton, famous as the home where Samuel Crompton invented the Spinning Mule, now a museum of domestic and industrial history.
Radcliffe Tower
5.2 km
Discover the rich history and architectural beauty of Radcliffe Tower, a must-visit landmark in Manchester that encapsulates the essence of local heritage.
Smithills Hall
6.4 km
Explore Smithills Hall, a historic Bolton manor blending medieval charm, Victorian elegance, haunting tales, and serene gardens on the West Pennine Moors.
Worsley Delph
6.7 km
Historic canal basin and underground mine entrance in Worsley, showcasing the heart of Britain’s Industrial Revolution heritage.
Jumbles Country Park
6.8 km
Peaceful reservoir walks, accessible trails, and woodland serenity await at Bolton’s Jumbles Country Park.
East Lancashire Railway
6.9 km
Step aboard the East Lancashire Railway for scenic steam and diesel journeys through historic Lancashire, starting at the iconic Bury Bolton Street Station.
Bury Transport Museum
6.9 km
Explore vintage vehicles and interactive exhibits in a historic 1848 railway warehouse celebrating Northwest England’s transport heritage.
Parish Church of St Mary the Virgin, Prestwich
7.6 km
A historic Grade I listed Anglican church in Prestwich with over 800 years of worship, rich architecture, and poignant community heritage.
Monton Lighthouse
8.0 km
A quirky, privately built lighthouse on the Bridgewater Canal offering scenic views and a unique inland maritime charm in Manchester.
Turton Tower
8.1 km
Discover 600 years of history in a tranquil Tudor manor nestled in beautiful woodlands near Bolton, with gardens, a café, and engaging volunteer guides.
Lancashire Mining Museum at Astley Green
8.2 km
Explore Lancashire’s coal mining heritage at Astley Green, home to the last surviving headgear and winding engine of the Lancashire coalfield.
Heaton Park
9.3 km
Explore Manchester’s largest park with historic Heaton Hall, vast green spaces, family attractions, and year-round events in a stunning natural setting.
Heaton Hall
9.4 km
Explore Heaton Hall’s exquisite neoclassical architecture and rich history nestled within Manchester’s expansive Heaton Park.
Essential places to dine
Northern Crafthouse
6.1 km
A vibrant brew house in Whitefield blending modern style, craft beers, and hearty American comfort food in a welcoming atmosphere.
Crowded House Restaurant
6.3 km
A vibrant blend of modern British dining, quirky charm, and lively bar culture in the heart of Bury.
Nick's Restaurant
9.9 km
Experience exquisite Modern European cuisine in a lively, cozy setting with attentive service at Nick's Restaurant in Horwich, Bolton.
Ewe Restaurant and Bar
10.1 km
Modern British cuisine meets stylish comfort in Bolton’s Ewe Restaurant and Bar, perfect for memorable meals and special occasions.
The Botanist Media City
11.6 km
A botanical-themed restaurant and bar in MediaCityUK offering creative cocktails, hanging kebabs, live music, and striking Salford Quays views.
The Alchemist MediaCity UK
11.7 km
Experience innovative cocktails and global cuisine in a striking futuristic setting overlooking Salford’s historic quays at MediaCity UK.
Nando's Salford Quays
11.8 km
Savor flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken in a lively, accessible setting at Nando's Salford Quays, where Portuguese and South African flavors meet Manchester’s vibrant quayside.
Lime
11.8 km
Savor grilled delights and Asian fusion by Salford Quays' waterfront, where relaxed lunches flow into lively nights in a spacious, vibrant venue.
Unagi
11.8 km
Experience the North West’s largest sushi bar with vibrant pan-Asian street food, crafted cocktails, and a lively atmosphere at MediaCityUK’s Unagi.
Harvester Quayside Mediacityuk
11.8 km
Flame-grilled favorites and endless fresh salads on Salford Quays, where family dining meets MediaCityUK's creative buzz.
Bella Italia - Salford Quays
11.9 km
Casual Italian dining with diverse menu options in Manchester’s vibrant Salford Quays waterfront setting.
Turtle Bay Salford Quays
11.9 km
Escape to Caribbean flavors and reggae beats at Salford Quays' vibrant jerk pit and cocktail haven, moments from MediaCityUK.
Quay House Beefeater
12.0 km
Classic British steakhouse and family-friendly pub offering scenic waterside dining with a cosy, modern atmosphere in Salford Quays.
The Sparrows Continental Pasta & Spätzle
12.7 km
Cozy railway-arch eatery in Manchester serving authentic handmade spätzle and Central European pasta with a lively, buzzy atmosphere.
Climat
12.7 km
Sophisticated rooftop dining in Manchester with panoramic views, a Burgundy-focused wine cellar, and inventive seasonal sharing plates.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Salford Shopping Centre
10.5 km
Affordable shopping precinct in Salford's Pendleton, with free parking, daily essentials, and community conveniences under one roof.
The Works
11.8 km
Unleash creativity at unbeatable prices: books, crafts, toys and more in Salford Quays' discount haven.
Next Outlet
11.9 km
Discounted designer fashion, homewares and shoes in Salford Quays' bustling MediaCityUK hub – style-savvy shopping with premium brands at outlet prices.
M&S Outlet
11.9 km
Bargain-hunting haven in Salford Quays: M&S discounted fashion, homeware, and beauty amid MediaCityUK's creative buzz.
The Sweet Emporium
11.9 km
Discover UK's vastest sweet collection at The Sweet Emporium in MediaCityUK—a family-run paradise of nostalgic candies, retro treats, and global confections that sparks joy for every sweet tooth.
Flock and Gaggle
11.9 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and local artistry in MediaCity UK's creative gem, where independent makers shine amid Salford's quayside buzz.
The Body Shop
11.9 km
Compact MediaCityUK branch of The Body Shop with core cruelty‑free ranges, seasonal gifts and refill options on the Salford Quays Quayside.
SPAR Salford Quays
12.5 km
Small, practical 24-hour convenience store on Trafford Road serving Salford Quays visitors, residents and shift workers.
Uniquely Manchester Ltd
12.8 km
Explore Uniquely Manchester Ltd, where local craftsmanship meets the spirit of Manchester in an unforgettable gift shopping experience.
House of Fraser
12.9 km
Discover House of Fraser in Manchester, where fashion meets home decor in a stylish shopping experience. Explore designer brands and unique finds.
Manchester Souvenirs Gifts & Presents Geek Elf Elux Bars Luggage storage locker
12.9 km
Authentic Manchester souvenirs and gifts with local charm, plus convenient luggage storage in the heart of Deansgate.
Pulse
12.9 km
Discover unique local treasures and artistic gifts in the heart of Manchester’s historic St Anne’s Square at Pulse.
Rams Gift World
13.0 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Rams Gift World, Manchester’s vibrant and eclectic souvenir shop on Market Street.
Søstrene Grene
13.0 km
Discover Danish-inspired creativity and cozy home treasures in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant city centre.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
13.0 km
Discover playful Danish design and quirky everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Manchester Arndale’s vibrant Market Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Piggy Banks
3.0 km
A friendly, affordable bar in Bolton offering a great selection of ales and simple food in a cozy, welcoming setting near the train station.
The Nook & Cranny Bromley Cross
6.3 km
A cozy, community-focused tap house in Bromley Cross serving quality cask ales in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Waggon & Horses
9.5 km
A lively traditional British pub in Westhoughton offering hearty fare, well-kept beers, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The Rivington
10.8 km
A stylish gastropub in Horwich offering fresh, quality dishes and a welcoming atmosphere for families and friends.
The Dockyard
11.5 km
Rugged dockside pub in MediaCityUK: cask ales, hearty pies, and industrial charm for after-work vibes and Quays camaraderie.
SEVEN BRO7HERS BEERHOUSE Media City
11.6 km
Craft beer haven in MediaCityUK: house-brewed IPAs, pizzas, and lively vibes await at Seven Bro7hers' Salford outpost, perfect for post-work pints or casual hangs.
Reflexion Lounge Manchester Shisha
11.8 km
Luxury glass-fronted shisha lounge on Salford Quays, blending waterfront views, flavorful hookahs, Moroccan teas, and plush VIP vibes for unforgettable evenings.
Craftbrew
11.8 km
Salford Quays' craft beer haven: artisan brews, tapas, and coffee in industrial-chic style, from dawn brunch to midnight pours.
11 Central
12.0 km
Riverside bar in MediaCityUK serving craft brews and bites amid Salford's creative quayside energy—ideal for relaxed evenings with canal views.
Matchstick Man
12.3 km
Waterside, budget-friendly pub serving hearty classics and live sport in a modern, family-friendly setting at Salford Quays.
MOJO
12.8 km
Eclectic cocktail bar in Manchester’s heart, blending creative drinks with a lively, urban nightlife vibe.
Be At One - Manchester
12.8 km
Lively cocktail bar on Deansgate with 100+ drinks, private hire rooms, and unbeatable happy hour deals in the heart of Manchester nightlife.
The Old Wellington
12.8 km
Step into The Old Wellington, a historic Manchester pub blending centuries-old charm with hearty ales and classic British fare in the city centre.
The Gas Lamp
12.8 km
Discover Manchester’s atmospheric basement pub with a rich history, exceptional craft beers, and a cozy, characterful vibe beneath Bridge Street.
The Alchemist Spinningfields
12.8 km
Innovative cocktails and contemporary dining in Manchester’s vibrant Spinningfields district, blending theatrical flair with a lively social scene.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Underground
1.4 km
Experience classic rave vibes and late-night energy at Underground, Bolton’s intimate clubbing hotspot in Farnworth.
Level Nightclub
3.1 km
Experience Bolton’s vibrant nightlife at Level Nightclub, where dynamic music, affordable drinks, and lively atmosphere create unforgettable nights.
Hidden at Downtex Mill
12.1 km
Manchester's raw warehouse nightclub in a historic mill: underground beats, industrial grit, and all-night raves in Cheetham Hill's creative heart.
Bijou Club
12.7 km
Manchester's hidden riverside gem: celebrity vibes, secret garden terrace, and LED-lit beats in an exclusive Deansgate nightclub.
Club Liv Manchester
12.9 km
Experience Manchester’s vibrant nightlife with exclusive VIP vibes, world-class Pan-Asian dining, and a stylish rooftop terrace at Club Liv.
Cargo
13.0 km
Manchester's Printworks powerhouse: light-up dance floors, bottomless brunches, and non-stop beats until dawn in the city's nightlife epicenter.
42's
13.0 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
History Nightclub
13.0 km
Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.
Royal Vida Night Club
13.1 km
Dive into Manchester's underground pulse at Royal Vida, where Castlefield's industrial shadows host thumping beats and endless nights from 11pm to 4am.
Venue Nightclub
13.1 km
Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
Ark Manchester
13.3 km
Multi-room beats and canal-side cocktails fuel Manchester's electric Deansgate Locks nightlife at Ark—dance, drink, repeat till dawn.
Popworld Manchester
13.3 km
Dance to cheesy pop anthems amid neon lights and poptail cocktails in Manchester's ultimate throwback nightclub.
Funkademia
13.4 km
Manchester's longest-running funk and soul night pulses at Mint Lounge in the Northern Quarter—dance to electric disco until dawn in an underground haven.
Mint Lounge
13.4 km
Experience Manchester’s Northern Quarter nightlife at Mint Lounge, a lively club with eclectic music, affordable drinks, and an inclusive vibe.
Bliss Club Manchester
13.4 km
Experience Manchester’s authentic late-night vibe at Bliss Club, where music and local energy blend into a spirited urban nightlife hub.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
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
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
