Stunning beer garden hidden among reservoirs, ruins and woodland just outside of Greater Manchester

Now that spring is here, bringing with it longer days and (hopefully) sunnier weather, it’s time to get outside and explore the incredible places we have right on our doorstep. Located in the Lancashire countryside just outside of Bolton, Rivington is a must-do on a sunny day and it’s packed full of gems to discover.

It's a landscape with stunning reservoirs and mysterious ruins hidden along the hillside. It’s also home to its own microbrewery which has breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Rivington Brewing Co. sits on the western side of the Lower Rivington Reservoir. The microbrewery and tap room boasts a huge beer garden, which is the place to be on a sunny day.

READ MORE: Five canal-side walks with scenic views in Greater Manchester

Local landmarks Rivington Pike and the Pigeon Tower provide a stunning backdrop as you sip on the microbrewery’s range of craft beers, ciders and wines. The amazing scenery surrounding the beer garden could easily give the Lake District a run for its money.

If you get peckish there’s a selection of street food to tuck into, including pizza and burgers; and if the weather turns there’s undercover seating. Once darkness falls the beer garden is lit up with strings of lights, creating a buzzing, holiday-like atmosphere.

A visit to the microbrewery is a must after exploring Rivington - and there's so much to see and do you'd be hard pushed to do it in one day. Of course, a trip to Rivington wouldn't be complete without seeing one of its five reservoirs: Lower Rivington, Upper Rivington, Yarrow, Anglezarke and High Bullough. There are walks you can take around them with stunning views across the water.

If you decide to walk by Lower Rivington Reservoir, you may stumble across