A Woodland and Waterside Wander to Darwen Tower
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Step into some of Lancashire’s most beautiful scenery on a refreshing walk through the Roddlesworth valley and up onto the wide‑open moorland above Darwen. We’ll wander past a chain of peaceful reservoirs, weave through ancient woodland, and climb to the iconic Darwen Tower for sweeping views across the West Pennine Moors. With varied terrain, rich local history and plenty of natural beauty, this route is the perfect blend of woodland calm and moorland drama.
Points of Interest:
Higher Roddlesworth Reservoir
A tranquil upper reservoir surrounded by dense woodland and quiet trails. Its sheltered position makes it a haven for wildlife—expect ducks, herons and the occasional deer moving through the trees. The reflections on still days are stunning.
Lower Roddlesworth Reservoir
Sitting just downstream, this reservoir is edged by well‑maintained paths and offers wider views across the valley. It’s a popular spot for walkers and a natural gateway into the Roddlesworth Woods network.
Roddlesworth Woods
A highlight of the route: a sprawling mix of conifer and broadleaf woodland with winding paths, streams and moss‑covered stonework.
Earnsdale Reservoir
Overlooked by the rising slopes of Darwen Moor, Earnsdale is known for its peaceful shoreline and the nearby Sunnyhurst area. From here, the landscape opens up and the moor begins to dominate the skyline.
Darwen Tower (Jubilee Tower)
The star of the route: built in 1898 to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, this stone tower stands proudly on Darwen Hill. Climb the steps to the top for panoramic views stretching to the Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales, and even North Wales on a clear day.
Darwen Moor
A broad expanse of heather, peat and sweeping ridgelines. The moor offers a dramatic contrast to the sheltered woodland below, with big skies and far‑reaching views. It’s a classic Lancashire moorland experience—wind‑shaped, open and full of character.
Your First OutdoorLads Walk 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.
Photo credits:
All photos taken by walk leader, Michael Rhodes, and OutdoorLads has permission to use them.
What to bring
Rucksack: a day sack large enough to carry a packed lunch and spare layers of clothing.
Footwear: A robust pair of hiking boots, preferably waterproof.
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt) and a mid layer (a micro fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece)
Trousers: ideally not jeans which become heavy and cold in the rain, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry.
Waterproof jacket
Waterproof trousers
Hat / sunscreen.
Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Food & drink
Water: I would recommend bringing two litres.
Snacks: biscuits, energy bars or fruit etc.
Lunch: please bring a packed lunch as we will have a lunch break at the mid-way point.
Thermos flask: you may wish to bring a hot drinks flask – tea/coffee etc.