Witton Country Park: Blackburn’s Expansive Natural Retreat
Explore 480 acres of woodlands, sports facilities, and heritage at Blackburn’s beloved Witton Country Park.
Witton Country Park is a sprawling 480-acre green space on the western edge of Blackburn, featuring mixed woodland, parkland, and farmland. Once the estate of the Feilden family, it offers diverse walking trails, sports facilities, picnic areas, playgrounds, and a visitor centre housed in historic outbuildings. A favourite for families and outdoor enthusiasts, the park blends natural beauty with recreational amenities, including a café and seasonal events.
A brief summary to Witton Country Park
- Blackburn, Blackburn, BB2 2TP, GB
- +441254666976
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 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
- Bring comfortable walking shoes to enjoy the extensive trails through woodland and open fields.
- Visit the visitor centre to learn about the park’s history and see exhibitions in the renovated stables.
- Take advantage of the picnic areas in scenic woodland spots for a relaxing outdoor meal.
- Check the schedule for seasonal events like horse shows and outdoor concerts to enhance your visit.
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
Bus 152 runs regularly every 30 minutes during the day between Preston and Blackburn, stopping near the main entrance on Preston Old Road. The journey takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes from Blackburn town centre. Tickets cost around £3–£5 one way. Service frequency reduces in evenings and weekends.
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Car
Driving to Witton Country Park via Preston Old Road takes about 10 to 15 minutes from Blackburn town centre. Ample parking is available at the main entrance, with charges of 60p for 2 hours or £1.80 for the whole day. Blue badge holders park free. Note the 15 mph speed limit on the main drive.
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Train and Walk
Cherry Tree railway station is approximately 0.5 miles from the park entrance, about a 10-minute walk on mostly flat terrain. The station connects to Blackburn and Preston. This option suits visitors preferring a mix of train travel and a short walk.
Witton Country Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
Discover more about Witton Country Park
A Vast Landscape of Nature and Recreation
Witton Country Park covers an impressive 480 acres of mixed woodland, parkland, and farmland, creating a diverse natural environment on Blackburn’s western outskirts. The park’s varied terrain includes open fields, dense woods, and gently rolling farmland, offering visitors a rich tapestry of landscapes to explore. Well-maintained footpaths and cycling tracks weave through the park, making it ideal for leisurely strolls, energetic runs, or family bike rides. The park’s size and natural variety provide a tranquil escape from urban life, with ample opportunities to connect with nature.Historical Roots and Surviving Heritage
The park was originally the estate of the Feilden family, who lived in Witton House from around 1800 until 1946. Although Witton House itself was demolished in 1952 due to decay and disuse, several outbuildings such as the former stables and coach houses remain, having been carefully renovated in the late 1970s. These historic structures now form part of the visitor centre, housing exhibitions on local natural history and traditional farming equipment, preserving a tangible link to the estate’s past and enriching the visitor experience with cultural heritage.Facilities for All Ages and Interests
Witton Country Park is well equipped to cater to a wide range of visitors. Families appreciate the multiple playgrounds featuring climbing apparatus, slides, and a wobbly bridge, alongside a dedicated children’s bike track with varied terrain. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy the all-weather sports turf, athletics track with changing rooms, football pitches, and tennis courts. The Pavilion café offers refreshments, while picnic areas nestled within woodland settings provide perfect spots for outdoor meals. Accessibility is a priority, with many paths and facilities designed for ease of access, including ramps and handrails.Community Events and Seasonal Activities
Throughout the year, Witton Country Park hosts a variety of events that bring the local community together. These include outdoor concerts, horse shows, football and cricket matches, and model aeroplane gatherings. The park’s open spaces and show fields serve as versatile venues for these activities, fostering a lively atmosphere while maintaining the park’s peaceful character. Seasonal celebrations and educational programs at the visitor centre further enhance the park’s role as a vibrant cultural hub.Visitor Experience and Practical Information
Visitors to Witton Country Park can expect a welcoming environment with ample parking available at the main entrance off Preston Old Road. Parking charges apply at the main and astroturf car parks, with exemptions for blue badge holders. The park is open year-round from early morning until dusk, allowing for flexible visit times. While the café and some facilities have room for modernization, the friendly staff and well-kept grounds contribute to an enjoyable visit. The combination of natural beauty, recreational options, and historical interest makes Witton Country Park a cherished green space for Blackburn residents and visitors alike.Preserving Nature and Promoting Accessibility
The park management emphasizes sustainability and accessibility, ensuring that the natural environment is protected while remaining welcoming to all. Many paths are level or equipped with ramps, and facilities include disabled parking bays and accessible restrooms. The park also encourages responsible use through clear signage and waste disposal points, supporting a clean and safe environment for wildlife and visitors. This balance of conservation and community use underscores Witton Country Park’s importance as a regional green lung and recreational asset.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Chorley's Flying Arches
11.3 km
Discover Chorley’s rare Victorian Flying Arches, a unique blend of historic railway engineering and modern heritage preservation.
Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library
11.8 km
Explore the rich history and vibrant artistry at the Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library in Preston, a must-visit cultural hub for every traveler.
Preston Cenotaph
11.9 km
A dignified and beautifully restored memorial in Preston’s Central Park, honoring the city’s fallen soldiers with solemnity and grace.
Wayoh Reservoir
13.2 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Wayoh Reservoir in Bolton, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Rivington Pike
13.9 km
Discover the breathtaking views and rich history at Rivington Pike, a perfect hiking destination in Lancashire for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Rivington Pike Tower
13.9 km
Historic 18th-century hunting lodge atop Rivington Pike offering panoramic Lancashire views and rich cultural heritage within scenic Lever Park.
Lumb Viaduct
15.4 km
Discover the historic Victorian Lumb Viaduct, a stunning railway landmark offering scenic walks and cycling across Lancashire’s Rossendale Valley.
Peel Tower
16.4 km
Historic Peel Tower on Holcombe Hill offers panoramic views and a tribute to Sir Robert Peel’s legacy near Bury.
Fairy Glen
21.9 km
Experience the serene beauty of Fairy Glen in Wigan - a natural escape filled with enchanting landscapes and tranquil trails for every adventurer.
Robert Peel Statue
22.2 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.
Sussex Close
23.3 km
Discover the charm of Wigan through Sussex Close, your essential bus stop to explore local attractions and immerse in the vibrant culture.
Pendle Heritage Centre
23.8 km
Discover Pendle Heritage Centre – a blend of art, history, and nature in Barrowford, perfect for a family-friendly day out.
Radcliffe Tower
24.4 km
Medieval fortress and Grade I listed monument preserving centuries of Lancashire's feudal heritage
Sussex Avenue
24.5 km
Discover the charm of Bury from Sussex Avenue, your convenient gateway to local attractions and experiences in this historic English town.
Blacko Tower
24.9 km
Explore the enchanting Blacko Tower in Pendle, a historical landmark offering breathtaking views and a serene escape into nature's beauty.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Mall Blackburn
2.6 km
A vibrant shopping centre blending mainstream and independent stores in the heart of Blackburn’s town centre.
Hoghton Tower
3.7 km
Explore Hoghton Tower, a majestic Tudor manor steeped in royal history, dramatic battles, and stunning panoramic views in Lancashire.
Queen's Park
4.0 km
A serene Victorian park where heritage charm meets family-friendly recreation in Blackburn's green heart.
Samlesbury Hall
4.5 km
Explore 700 years of Tudor history and heritage at Samlesbury Hall, a captivating medieval manor near Preston with timeless charm.
Mrs Dowsons Farm Park
4.6 km
Experience Lancashire’s beloved working farm with hands-on animal encounters, play areas, and farm-made ice cream for all ages.
Hatch Brook Waterfall
7.2 km
Discover the tranquil charm of Hatch Brook Waterfall, a hidden natural gem nestled in Lancashire’s scenic woodlands near Chorley.
Viking Woodland
7.4 km
Discover the peaceful trails and rich Viking heritage of Preston’s serene Viking Woodland, a natural haven for wildlife and relaxation.
Ribchester Roman Museum
7.5 km
Explore Lancashire’s only Roman antiquities museum, showcasing Bremetenacum Veteranorum’s rich history through artifacts, ruins, and engaging events.
Brockholes
7.6 km
Explore Brockholes, Lancashire’s award-winning floating nature reserve blending innovation, wildlife, and family fun in a stunning riverside setting.
Tin Man Sculpture
7.6 km
A whimsical and iconic outdoor sculpture celebrating creativity amid the scenic landscapes of Langho, Blackburn.
Boyce's Wood
8.7 km
Discover peaceful trails and lush greenery in Boyce's Wood, a serene woodland retreat near Preston, Lancashire.
Memorial Park
9.4 km
A peaceful green haven in Great Harwood blending remembrance, vibrant gardens, and active sports facilities.
Cuerden Valley Park
10.1 km
Explore 650 acres of woodlands, meadows, and heritage gardens in this sustainable Lancashire country park, open year-round for all ages.
Whalley Viaduct
11.1 km
A stunning 48-arch brick railway viaduct soaring over Lancashire’s Ribble Valley, blending Victorian engineering with gothic echoes of nearby Whalley Abbey.
Whalley Abbey East Gatehouse
11.2 km
Explore the majestic 14th-century East Gatehouse of Whalley Abbey, a historic gateway to Lancashire’s rich medieval monastic heritage.
Essential places to dine
The Bonny Inn
5.7 km
Contemporary British pub with fresh local cuisine, vegan options, and stunning Ribble Valley views in a welcoming, modern setting.
Northcote Hotel & Restaurant
8.8 km
Luxury country house hotel with Michelin-starred dining, elegant rooms, and tranquil Ribble Valley views for a refined countryside escape.
Artisan Ribble Valley
9.5 km
Experience Modern British cuisine in a stylish setting with local flavors, scenic terraces, and a vibrant cocktail bar in Billington, Clitheroe.
Angels Restaurant
9.8 km
Chic modern British dining in Ribchester’s Ribble Valley, blending seasonal local produce with elegant style and warm hospitality.
Vardons Restaurant at Shaw Hill
10.4 km
Elegant British dining with scenic golf course views at Shaw Hill’s Regency-style Vardons Restaurant.
Tipsy Chef (Bar & Restaurant)
11.7 km
A vibrant American-inspired bar and restaurant in Preston, famed for inventive dishes and lively cocktails in a buzzing social setting.
Aven Restaurant
11.9 km
Experience Preston’s finest with Aven Restaurant’s award-winning British cuisine, seasonal tasting menus, and warm, elegant ambiance.
Charnock Farm Restaurant
12.3 km
Rustic country dining, comfortable motel stays, and charming event spaces nestled in the tranquil Lancashire countryside.
Encore Restaurant
12.5 km
Modern British cuisine and vibrant cocktails meet stylish celebrations in the heart of Chorley’s Brewers Print Building.
Restaurant Metamorphica
13.6 km
Exclusive fine dining in Haslingden offering innovative British tasting menus in an intimate, handcrafted setting by Chef Steven Halligan.
The Italian Orchard
14.3 km
Spacious and stylish Italian dining in Broughton, offering a vast menu and lively atmosphere for families and groups.
The Cellar Restaurant
14.9 km
Historic charm meets traditional English cuisine in Padiham’s beloved Cellar Restaurant, where hearty meals and warm service await.
Gibbon Bridge Hotel and Restaurant
15.0 km
Elegant four-star country hotel with fine dining, scenic gardens, and cozy suites nestled in the Forest of Bowland near Preston.
The Broughton Inn
15.2 km
Historic gastropub in Broughton offering classic British dishes and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere just north of Preston.
Retreat Adlington
15.5 km
A vibrant grill and cocktail bar in Adlington offering quality steaks, pizzas, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Crissys Gifts For All Occasions
2.3 km
Explore Crissys Gifts For All Occasions in Blackburn for unique gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of your visit.
Quirky Gifts
10.2 km
Explore Accrington's most charming gift shop for unique, whimsical treasures that capture the spirit of your travels.
The Mill Shop
10.4 km
A welcoming gift shop in St Catherine’s Park, Lostock Hall, blending community spirit with unique local crafts and charitable support.
Retrogue Vintage Clothing
11.8 km
Discover unique vintage and designer secondhand fashion treasures in the heart of Preston at Retrogue Vintage Clothing.
KENJI Preston
12.0 km
Discover an eclectic mix of unique gifts and general merchandise from Asia in Preston’s vibrant KENJI store within St George's Shopping Centre.
Mood Gifts & Home
17.3 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish home accessories in a warm, community-focused boutique in Longton, Preston.
North West Vintage Clothing Company Ltd
17.3 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures in the historic Bygone Times at Eccleston, where every piece tells a story of style and sustainability.
Freckle Boutique
17.8 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion and personalized service at Freckle Boutique, a charming shopping gem in Heskin, Chorley.
The Secret Closet
19.0 km
Curated Italian, Danish & Portuguese fashion with a commitment to responsible, sustainable retail.
Witches Galore
20.3 km
A quirky, witch-themed gift shop in Newchurch-in-Pendle, packed with Pendle Witch memorabilia, magical curios and folklore souvenirs.
Cedar Farm
21.2 km
Discover Cedar Farm: Lancashire’s charming blend of boutique shopping, gourmet dining, and family-friendly farm fun in a scenic rural setting.
Rufford's Country Lifestyle
21.4 km
Discover premium British country wear and footwear at Rufford's, your stylish gateway to authentic country living near Preston.
Dream
24.1 km
Distinctive gifts in the heart of Lancashire's historic market town.
The Hive
24.1 km
Discover unique gifts and warm hospitality at The Hive, Garstang’s beloved local gift shop nestled in a charming historic setting.
THE FOSSIL STORE
26.2 km
A unique design studio and shop in the Forest of Bowland, transforming rare fossils into bespoke art and jewellery.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ribchester Arms
7.9 km
A charming Lancashire inn blending historic roots, hearty gastropub fare, and cozy comfort in the heart of Ribchester.
The Dressers Arms | Pub & Rooms
8.3 km
Charming countryside pub and cozy rooms offering hearty food, local ales, and warm hospitality in scenic Wheelton, Chorley.
The Plough Grimsargh
9.9 km
A friendly village pub in Grimsargh serving classic British dishes, excellent beers, and hosting lively community events in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
White Orchid Boutique Bar
10.3 km
Stylish boutique bar in Accrington offering quality drinks, cozy ambiance, and live music for a vibrant social experience.
The Stage Door
11.3 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.
Blitz Venue & Nightclub
11.6 km
Experience Preston’s vibrant late-night scene with live DJs, affordable drinks, and an energetic club atmosphere at Blitz Venue & Nightclub.
Hogarths
11.7 km
Historic Victorian gin palace in Preston city centre, famed for its vast gin selection, lively sports atmosphere, and vibrant community spirit.
Winedown
11.7 km
Discover Winedown, Preston’s cozy underground wine bar with exceptional wines, artisan cheese boards, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Baluga Bar & Club
11.7 km
Experience Preston's vibrant nightlife at Baluga Bar & Club, where stylish drinks meet a lively dance floor in the heart of the city.
Revolution Preston
11.8 km
A vibrant four-level cocktail bar and restaurant in Preston city centre, perfect for dining, cocktails, and late-night partying.
Guild Ale House
11.8 km
Preston’s first micro pub, Guild Ale House serves exceptional local ales in a cozy, lively setting with a welcoming community vibe.
Black Horse
12.0 km
Historic Black Horse Pub in Preston offers award-winning real ales, classic charm, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the city.
FORUM BAR & KITCHEN
12.0 km
A stylish bar and kitchen in Preston blending Mediterranean flavors, craft cocktails, and warm hospitality in a vibrant city-center setting.
Plug & Taps
12.1 km
Discover Preston’s craft beer gem at Plug & Taps, a cozy micro pub blending modern vibes with a vibrant community spirit.
Hartleys Wine Bar
12.1 km
A vibrant and cosy wine bar in Preston city centre, perfect for unwinding with quality drinks and lively company.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Rendezvous Nightclub & Resteraunt
11.5 km
Vibrant nightclub and restaurant in Whalley offering lively weekend events, diverse music, and friendly service in Ribble Valley’s heart.
The Warehouse
11.6 km
Three floors of diverse music and vibrant nightlife in Preston’s welcoming alternative club scene.
Popworld - Preston
11.7 km
Popworld Preston: Where cheesy pop tunes meet vibrant nightlife and unforgettable party vibes in the heart of the city.
Switch Nightclub
11.9 km
Energetic and affordable nightlife hub in Preston, popular with a middle-aged crowd and known for its lively atmosphere.
Park Hall Nightclub
16.7 km
Experience the vibrant energy and nostalgic vibes of Park Hall Nightclub, Chorley’s premier rural nightlife destination.
The Redroom Burnley
18.8 km
Experience Burnley’s vibrant nightlife with The Redroom’s lively music, diverse drinks, and late-night party atmosphere in the town centre.
Level Nightclub
19.5 km
Experience Bolton’s vibrant nightlife at Level Nightclub, where dynamic music, affordable drinks, and lively atmosphere create unforgettable nights.
Underground
23.2 km
Experience classic rave vibes and late-night energy at Underground, Bolton’s intimate clubbing hotspot in Farnworth.
Pure Nightclub
23.3 km
Experience Wigan’s vibrant nightlife at Pure Nightclub, where energetic beats, stylish vibes, and unforgettable late-night memories come alive every Saturday.
Ibiza Nightclub
23.3 km
Experience Wigan’s vibrant nightlife at Ibiza Nightclub, where music, dance, and unforgettable Saturday nights come alive until dawn.
Hidden at Downtex Mill
33.4 km
Manchester's raw warehouse nightclub in a historic mill: underground beats, industrial grit, and all-night raves in Cheetham Hill's creative heart.
Banff
33.8 km
Experience Southport’s vibrant nightlife at Banff, a dynamic nightclub and bar on West Street offering late-night entertainment in the heart of town.
Bijou Club
33.9 km
Manchester's hidden riverside gem: celebrity vibes, secret garden terrace, and LED-lit beats in an exclusive Deansgate nightclub.
Cargo
34.2 km
Manchester's Printworks powerhouse: light-up dance floors, bottomless brunches, and non-stop beats until dawn in the city's nightlife epicenter.
Club Liv Manchester
34.3 km
Experience Manchester’s vibrant nightlife with exclusive VIP vibes, world-class Pan-Asian dining, and a stylish rooftop terrace at Club Liv.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Fun-filled
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
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
