Anglezarke and Rivington Reservoir Circuit

The reservoirs at Anglezarke and Rivington sit in a chain beneath the West Pennine Moors north of Bolton, linked by a 9.7 km circular that follows the waterside before climbing onto open moorland with views across Lancashire to the coast. The lower paths around the reservoirs are well surfaced and steady, while the higher sections onto the moor bring rougher ground, heather, and a genuine sense of space. The 290 m of climbing is concentrated on the moorland ascent, giving the walk two distinct characters: gentle waterside and more exposed upland. Rivington Pike's tower is visible on the skyline for much of the route and makes a natural extension.

This is a dog friendly walk with more substance than the gentle reservoir paths might initially suggest. The waterside sections provide drinking access and shelter, while the moorland opens up into the kind of terrain where dogs can stretch out and work their noses through heather and rough grass. Livestock graze parts of the moorland and some field margins near the reservoirs, so leads are needed in places and awareness of sheep is important throughout. The woodland sections between reservoirs are particularly good for scent, with damp ground and varied undergrowth. The mix of easy and moderate terrain makes this a good choice for dogs building fitness or owners who want options to extend or shorten the day.