Hollingworth Lake

Hollingworth Lake is a reservoir which was built in the early 1800s, to supply water to the Rochdale Canal. The walk follows are the Lake for the duration, beginning at the Visitor Centre, and there are some good views of the Lake, the M62 and the Pennine Edge as you progress.

How to get there

Take Junction 21 from the M62, head through Milnrow and then up Wildhouse Lane toward Smithy Bridge. Follow the road along the lake, keeping it to your right, and head up toward the Visitor Centre for parking.

Starting Point: Hollingworth Lake Visitor Centre car park, Littleborough, Rochdale, Greater Manchester (Postcode: OL15 0AQ).

Approximate Distance: The main circular path around Hollingworth Lake is approximately 2.5 miles (4 km). Longer walks are possible by taking paths up onto the surrounding moorland like Blackstone Edge (much more strenuous).

Estimated Time: 1 - 1.5 hours for the easy lake circuit at a leisurely pace.

Terrain: The main path around Hollingworth Lake is wide, well-maintained, and predominantly flat with a tarmac or compacted stone surface. It is highly accessible for pushchairs, wheelchairs, and all abilities. Paths leading away from the immediate lakeside onto surrounding hills or moorland will be much steeper, grassy, boggy, and uneven.

Dog Considerations:

• Leads: Hollingworth Lake is a very popular recreational area. On the main busy circular path around the lake, it is strongly recommended to keep dogs on leads or under very close control due to the high number of people, families, children, cyclists (on permitted sections), and other dogs. The adjacent country park areas or quieter paths away from the main lake circuit *might* offer some off-lead opportunities for well-behaved dogs, but always be mindful of proximity to roads, picnic areas, and wildlife.
• Water: Hollingworth Lake itself. Dogs often paddle or swim at accessible points, but be aware of boating activities (sailing, windsurfing), fishing, and water quality (check for any blue-green algae notices in summer). Carry fresh water.
• Wildlife: Abundant waterfowl (ducks, geese, swans, coots) on the lake. The surrounding area also supports woodland and moorland birds. Ensure dogs do not chase or disturb wildlife.
• Dog Bins: Plentifully available around the main lake path, car parks, and visitor areas.
• Hazards: Can be extremely busy, especially on sunny weekends and holidays. Deep water in the lake. Cyclists on shared paths. Busy main road (A58) runs close to one side of the lake.

Walk Description (Focusing on the lake circuit):

1. From the Visitor Centre/Car Park: Start your walk from the main car park near the Hollingworth Lake Visitor Centre. The Centre offers information, toilets, and often a cafe or shop.

2. Lakeside Path Circuit: Join the wide, surfaced path that circumnavigates the 130-acre Hollingworth Lake. You can walk in either direction. The path offers continuous views across the water, with the dramatic backdrop of the Pennine moors, including Blackstone Edge, often visible.

3. Scenery and Activity: Enjoy watching the various watersports taking place on the lake (sailing club, windsurfing, kayaking – seasonal). The path passes by picnic areas, small beaches, amusement arcades (on the Rakewood Road side), and areas of woodland and grassland bordering the lake.

4. Rakewood Road Side: One side of the lake (Rakewood Road) is more developed with cafes, pubs, and amusements. The other side (Hollingworth Road) is generally quieter with more natural parkland.

5. Optional Extensions: For more energetic walkers, paths lead from the lake area up towards Blackstone Edge and the Pennine Way, offering much more challenging moorland hiking and incredible views (requires good fitness, navigation, and gear).

Walk Detail:

1 When you leave the car park at the Visitor Centre, turn right and walk along the road, keeping the Lake to your left at all times. You will pass an Inn on your right.

2 Continue on through Lake Bank road. There are a number of shops along this part. Approach the Beach Hotel on your left, and to the right you will see a track leading to the lake, on your left.

3 Continue on the route along the south of the Lake, the path continues onward. There is a café located on the route.

4 Head onward until you cross over a small bridge with a play area on your right. Turn left onto Rakewood Road. Follow the road, keeping the Lake to your left.

5 You will reach the Country Park Visitor centre on your right, and the car park where you started the walk.

Highlights:

• A picturesque man-made lake set against a backdrop of Pennine moorland.
• A flat, well-maintained, and highly accessible circular path perfect for all abilities.
• Opportunities to watch or participate in watersports.
• Good visitor facilities including cafes, pubs, toilets, and often a nature reserve area.
• A popular and vibrant recreational hub for the Rochdale area.

Tips for Your Walk:

• Link4Life Website (Rochdale Council): Check for information on Hollingworth Lake Country Park, including facility opening times, parking charges, and any events.
• Popularity: Extremely popular, especially on sunny days and weekends. Parking can be challenging, and the main path very busy. Consider visiting at quieter times if possible.
• Parking: Several pay and display car parks are available around the lake, including at the Visitor Centre and along Rakewood Road. Charges apply.
• Watersports Centre: If interested in activities on the lake, check with the Hollingworth Lake Activity Centre.
• Weather: The area around the lake is fairly open and can be windy. The surrounding moors are very exposed.

Hollingworth Lake offers a lovely and lively waterside walk with excellent facilities and options for more strenuous adventures into the surrounding hills.

Grid Reference: SD 940 152
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