Walker Fold @ Smithills Estate

Walker Fold on the Smithills Estate is the largest site the Woodland Trust has ever acquired in England.

In the shadow of the Winter Hill mast, this site is teaming with wildlife and steeped in history, with everything from Neolithic and Bronze Age relics to Roman coins being found in the stream and ancient woodland.

With panoramic views of Bolton and the city of Manchester beyond, this mix of grassland, moorland and wooded cloughs crisscrossed by dry stone walls is not for the faint hearted but well worth the trip.

Our Huskies favourite walk across the tops to the mysterious Two Lads – said to be the burial mounds of two sons of a Saxon king who died lost on the moor in a blizzard centuries ago.

With a run through the woods and a dip in the deeper parts of the stream, we always have mucky but very happy Huskies after a walk on the moor.

On the way back, a visit to The Cakery food truck serving gourmet coffees and exceptionally good pastries and cakes is a must. 

Their business has thrived since setting up here on Walker Fold even in lock-down. One taste of their produce will explain why – no words necessary.

At just over 4miles, this walk is challenging – Steep climbs, rocky loose and uneven surfaces, often muddy and slippery all year round. The correct clothing and footwear is essential here.