National Trust walk with views of four national parks

The Holcombe and Bull Hill Circular Walk is an eight-mile loop, offering a chance to see Snowdonia (Eryri), the Peak District, the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District on a clear day.

The route, recommended by the National Trust, begins at the Lumb Carr car park on Lumb Carr Road in Holcombe, Bury.

It quickly climbs to Bull Hill before continuing along Moorbottom Road and includes a mix of terrain, with some rocky and potentially boggy sections.

A spokesperson for the National Trust said: "This eight-mile circular trail offers fantastic views over the surrounding areas, and on a clear day you can see four national parks; Snowdonia (Eryri), the Peak District, the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District."

The route passes close to Ministry of Defence land, and walkers are reminded not to enter the area if red flags are flying, indicating military training is in progress.

An alternative route is available during these times, and firing times can be checked by calling the regional operations room.

The walk is rated as ‘challenging’ and typically takes between three and four hours to complete.

It follows bridleways for much of the route and is also suitable for mountain bikers and horse riders.

Dogs are welcome, but must be kept on a lead between March 1 and July 31, and at any time near livestock.

Part of the walk takes you past the grounds where the TV show The Krypton Factor once filmed.

Walkers will also pass points of historical and environmental interest, including a peatland restoration project and old farmsteads.

Electric vehicle charging points are available at Esso EG Ramsbottom and in the car park next to Irwell Works Brewery.

The National Trust has also signposted nearby refreshments. A spokesperson added: “There are many shops and cafes in Ramsbottom, and at Holcombe Brook there is a pub, Hare and Hounds, a café, and other shops.

"At the top of the road climbing out of Ramsbottom there is the Shoulder of Mutton pub, which is not far from where you turned off the road at the start of the walk.”

Helmshore has a village café. The route begins from Lumb Carr car park (Lumb Carr Road, Holcombe, Bury BL8 4NN).

A PDF of the walk is available on the National Trust website.