A Circular Walk Around Roddlesworth Reservoirs and Hollinshead Hall

Tucked away on the western edges of the West Pennine Moors in Lancashire lies a spectacular patchwork of ancient woodland, hidden historic ruins, and tranquil water.

The circular walk around the Roddlesworth Reservoirs is an absolute gem for families, nature photographers, and anyone looking for an open, serene escape that feels completely removed from the nearby industrial towns.

Unlike many reservoir walks in the North of England—which can often feel exposed, bleak, or heavily industrial—Roddlesworth is a lush, sheltered beauty spot.

The water is completely framed by the dense canopies of Tockholes Plantation and Roddlesworth Woods, creating a landscape that feels remarkably wild and secluded.

This is a walk that holds a special place in my heart because it is an absolute paradise for dogs. My trail buddy Malc, a dog who lives to splash in streams and explore dense treelines, loved every single minute of it

Whether you are looking for a gentle weekend stroll or a deeper historical exploration, here is the definitive guide to navigating Roddlesworth.

Entering the Canopy: Roddlesworth Woods

The adventure begins directly across the road from the Tockholes parking area, where you step instantly beneath the deep green canopy of Roddlesworth Woods and the Tockholes Plantation.

If you travel with dogs who love exploring among old trees, this woodland is a dream. A labyrinth of well-laid dirt and gravel paths weaves in every direction, tracking a series of shallow, clear streams.

Before you even catch a glimpse of the reservoirs, the trail offers a brilliant opportunity to let the dogs dip their paws in the cool running water while you enjoy the fresh scent of pine and damp earth.

Uncovering the Past: The Ruins of Hollinshead Hall

As you wander deeper into the northern section of the woods, the trees part to reveal something deeply atmospheric: the crumbling stone ruins of an old estate taken over entirely by nature. These are the remains of Hollinshead Hall.

Originally a grand manor house dating back to the 18th century (with roots stretching back even further), the hall was eventually abandoned and dismantled in the early 20th century to protect the local water catchment area.

Today, ivy-clad walls, old stone gateposts, and structural foundations sprout directly from the forest floor.

The absolute highlight of the ruins is the remarkably preserved Well House.

This stone structure houses a natural, ancient spring that was historically rumored to be a “holy well” with miraculous healing properties.

Pausing here to explore the old masonry adds a fantastic layer of historic mystery to what most people assume is just a standard water walk.

To the Water’s Edge: Higher & Lower Roddlesworth

Exiting the deep shade of the plantation, the treeline thins out, and the shimmering expanse of Higher Roddlesworth Reservoir opens up ahead.

On a bright, clear day, the deep blue of the water reflecting the sky frames a spectacular view against the surrounding green banks.

At the water’s edge, you face a choice of heading clockwise or anticlockwise.

I opted to turn left, taking the clockwise path. The trail hugs the shoreline perfectly, giving you a true woodland walking experience with a constant view of the calm water by your side.

Every few hundred yards, small breaks in the foliage reveal tiny, secluded pebble beaches and coves.

These hidden spots act like your own private lakeside terraces—absolutely perfect for rolling out a picnic blanket, breaking out the flask of hot coffee, and watching the local wildlife.

Gray squirrels dart up the oak trunks, while black-headed gulls and herons swoop low over the water line.

Continuing along the shoreline path brings you seamlessly to the second pool: Lower Roddlesworth Reservoir.

The atmosphere here gets progressively quieter and more peaceful, offering a genuine sense of deep countryside escapism despite being just a few miles south of Blackburn and west of Darwen.

Extending the Loop: Rake Brook Reservoir

If you reach the southern tip of Lower Roddlesworth and your legs are feeling fresh, you don’t have to turn back just yet.

A short, flat path extending just a few hundred meters further west connects you directly to a third body of water: Rake Brook Reservoir.

Looping around Rake Brook allows you to maximize your mileage before swinging back around the bottom edge of the valley to track the return path through the dense, rich woodland on the opposing side of the reservoirs.

Re-fuelling at the Tockholes Gateway

A proper walk in the Pennines is never truly complete without a great local spot to warm up and share stories afterward.

Returning to the Tockholes trailhead brings you right back to The Royal Oak.

It is a classic, deeply welcoming country pub that is exceptionally dog-friendly, making it the ultimate finish line for a day out in the fresh Lancashire air.

Roddlesworth is a masterclass in how water, wilderness, and local heritage can blend into a single, accessible circuit.

It demands no intense mountain climbing, just a steady set of boots and a spirit of discovery.

Pack a flask, clip on the leads, and enjoy one of the finest green corners the North West has to offer.