Stunning tearoom is perfect pit stop after spring walk in Greater Manchester's 'Little Lake District'

There's a reason Rivington, near Bolton, is popular with walkers and that's because it ticks so many boxes.

Whether you want to head up Winter Hill to Rivington Pike, meander through Rivington Terraced Gardens with their mysterious ruins, caves and waterfalls, or stroll along the sandy banks of Lower Rivington Reservoir, there's something for everyone.

There's even a Go Ape if you fancy a bit of swinging through the trees.

And, nestled among the ‘lakes and ruins’ of the area dubbed the ‘Little Lake District’ by the Victorians is the Great House Barn Tearoom.

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After a walk to the pike, which revealed stunning views from the top - on a clear day I'm told you can spot Blackpool Tower - it was there we stopped for a well-deserved bite to eat.

I've previously grabbed a brew to go from this place and it's rarely quiet, especially at weekends. But this time we decided to sample the food too.

Lots of people were sitting outside, but with the weather still being a bit cold, we headed indoors for a table for two and a dog.

We were put near the food counter where Milo was a bit of an obstacle for staff, but they didn't seem to mind - they're obviously used to having dog walkers here. In fact, just outside the building, there's a table with all sorts of dog treats like venison sausages and pig's ears alongside an honesty box so you can help yourself.

Sadly we didn't know about this until we were leaving, so ours made do with his own sausage from the menu.

We'd missed the breakfast menu. That runs 10am to 12pm and features a wide selection, from toasted tea cakes and eggs on toasted sourdough, to a full breakfast, French toast and sweetcorn fritters.

But the two