Reflections of Summer - Mid Afternoon Walk

Join Andy and OutdoorLads for a stunning Saturday afternoon  stroll around Moses Gate Country Park !

Starting at Moses Gate Country Park, the route begins in a diverse natural landscape made up of woodlands, wetlands, and open meadows. The park, also known locally as Crompton Lodges, is rich in wildlife, with several lodges (small lakes) that attract birds such as herons, ducks, and kingfishers. Well-maintained paths and peaceful surroundings make it an ideal starting point, offering a calm introduction before the journey unfolds.

From here, we join the historic Manchester, Bolton & Bury Canal, a largely restored waterway that provides a scenic and tranquil corridor through the landscape. Following the towpath, (along the Kingfisher Trail), we pass through Nob End, a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest. For those who have attended previously, we will get a chance to see how the canal reservations are progressing now that the bridge is now re-opened.

This area is particularly notable for its unusual plant life, shaped by the region’s industrial past, as well as its striking views over the River Irwell and surrounding countryside.

Bolton’s largest nature reserve

At 750 acres this is Bolton’s largest nature reserve. Home to mill lodges, woodland and plenty of heritage, wildlife meets industry in a peaceful site where there is always something to see.

This area is an  SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest). It’s a conservation designation used in the UK to protect areas that are important for their wildlife, plants, geology, or landforms.

In simple terms, it means the area is considered nationally important for science and nature.

What makes a place an SSSI?

A site might be designated as an SSSI because it has:

• Rare or endangered plants or animals
• Unique habitats (like wetlands, heathlands, or ancient woodlands)
• Important geological features (rocks, fossils, land formations)

For example, Nob End is an SSSI because of its unusual plant life, which developed due to the area’s industrial past.

Why are SSSIs protected?

SSSIs are legally protected to:

• Prevent damage from development or pollution
• Manage land in a way that supports wildlife
• Preserve them for research, education, and future generations

Can people visit them?

Yes—many SSSIs are open to the public, and you can walk through them. However, visitors are usually expected to:

• Stick to paths
• Avoid disturbing wildlife
• Not remove plants, rocks, or other natural features

So when you pass through an SSSI on your route, you’re walking through an area that’s considered one of the UK’s most valuable natural environments 

This walk is mainly flat - approximately 4 miles.

This is the first of two 'Reflections of Summer' events in the area on this day. Why not join us for an early evening social - a curry at Lucknow Junction. See here for details...

Well-behaved, socialised and under-control dogs are welcome on this event.

Dogs must be kept on a lead whenever this is signposted and whenever we are in the vicinity of livestock, and at the event leader's request. It's a good idea to check what the route may be like with the event leader before booking to find out more about the potential suitability of the walk for dogs.

All photos taken by Growler

Your First OutdoorLads Event?

We know that new members in particular like to know in advance more about what an OutdoorLads event will be like. 

If this is your first OutdoorLads event, you should check out the information designed specifically for you on the My First Event page on the OutdoorLads website.

Waitlist: If this event is fully booked and you want to attend, just add yourself to the waitlist, because places inevitably become available closer to the date.