The moorland hike near Manchester with stunning views over the Lancashire countryside

There are plenty of country walks you can do near Manchester where you can enjoy some of the incredible scenery on our doorstep. If it's a hike across rugged moorland that you’re after, then a walk to Darwen Tower should be at the top of your list.

Built in 1989 to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria, Darwen Tower -officially known as Jubilee Tower - is located on the West Pennine Moors and overlooks the town. Thanks to its vantage point high up on the moors it offers spectacular views of the surrounding area.

Currently the tower is being restored but usually you’re able to enter it and climb the stairs to the top. On a clear day you’ll be able to spot Blackpool Tower, and see as far as Cumbria and North Wales.

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There’s different routes you can take to the tower, depending on how challenging you want your walk to be. A popular route is a two mile circular walk starting at Sunnyhurst Wood Car Park, which is around 40 minutes drive from Manchester.

This takes you past Waterman’s Cottage and Sunnyhurst Hey Reservoir before rising up to the tower. Here you can enjoy the incredible views across the moorland, although be warned it can be windy.

You can then follow a path back down the other side which will take you back to the car park. This option features only gradual inclines, but there are more direct paths available if you fancy a steeper hike.

Sunnyhurst Woods Car Park BB3 1JX.

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