Woodland Trust launch monthly walks for public at Smithills Estate

Join the Woodland Trust’s volunteer-led walks every first Wednesday of the month, with relaxed routes designed to help people explore the countryside.

The Smithills Estate is the largest site the Woodland Trust has ever acquired in England, steeped in history and offering a wide variety of scenic walking routes.

With picturesque woodlands and expansive open spaces, the Estate attracts visitors from across Bolton and beyond.

Eddee Endley, events and communications officer for Smithills Estate, told The Bolton News: “We work with guided walk leaders on-site, who are all volunteers.

“They have been trained to confidently lead their own walks with groups.

“However, in the past few months, they haven’t had the opportunity to do so due to the winter weather.

“So, we wanted to establish a new monthly group that will run consistently.”

Smithills cows (Image: Richard Cooke)

The walking group is called Step Out at Smithills and is hoping to encourage more Bolton residents to take part.

“We have a walk on May 6, part of Greater Manchester’s Walking Festival, and there’s still space to come along.”

During the walk, guided leaders Pete Hargreaves and Alex Lidis will share insights into the Estate’s rich history.

“It’ll be quite a relaxed hike, so it’s not too strenuous,” said Eddee.

“We’re trying to bring both new and returning visitors to the site to establish a community of local walkers.”

The guided walks can accommodate between 15 and 20 walkers in total and will cover approximately 5km, running from 11am until 1pm.

There are some areas of slightly uneven footing, which participants should be mindful of.

“It’s a really exciting opportunity to meet people and be led by an experienced guide.”

Places can be booked via Eventbrite or by emailing SmithillsEstate@WoodlandTrust.org.uk.

Upcoming walks are April 1st with Pete Hargreaves and May 6th with Alex Lidis exploring the history of Smithills, scenic views, habitats and wildlife!

Walks are ~5k on footpaths and partly on uneven ground. Its moderate with some slightly challenging parts and may not be suitable for anyone with mobility issues.