Sam White and Jess Hartley are the owners of Sun & Salt, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant in Chorley town centre.
After time living in Manchester, they returned to the town for its strong sense of community, independent scene and surrounding countryside. Here are their top places to head to, as reported in Lancashire Life Magazine.
A SENSE OF PLACE
Chorley is a town that wears its history lightly but proudly. Its market roots stretch back to 1498, when it was granted a Royal Charter, and that heritage still shapes the town centre today. Market days continue to animate the streets, reflecting centuries of trade and local enterprise. The town also grew significantly during the Industrial Revolution, particularly through its cotton weaving industry, remnants of which can still be seen in surviving mill buildings.
Surrounded by the landscapes of the West Pennine Moors, Chorley offers an easy transition from town to countryside. Just beyond the centre, Rivington Pike stands as a defining landmark. The Pike Tower, built in 1733, overlooks a patchwork of reservoirs, woodland and moorland. Nearby, the Terraced Gardens were created in the early 20th century by William Lever, later Lord Leverhulme, as part of his private estate, adding a designed landscape to the natural surroundings.
Green space is also central within the town itself. Astley Park, home to the Grade I-listed Astley Hall – a Tudor mansion dating back to the 1500s – provides both historic interest and open parkland. This combination of built heritage and accessible countryside gives Chorley a distinct character. Local traditions remain part of that identity. The Chorley cake, flatter and less sweet than its Eccles counterpart, is a long-established regional speciality, often paired with Lancashire cheese.
MORNING
First stop: breakfast and expertly made coffee at Four.1.Two, an independently run, family-owned café in Higher Wheelton – a perfect stop-off from the motorway into Chorley. It’s also a lovely walk down the canal between Chorley and Four.1.Two, so alternatively, park in the town centre and enjoy a leisurely stroll.
On Tuesdays and Saturdays, the famous Chorley Market is in full swing, with a variety of local sellers’ and makers’ stalls throughout the town centre streets. Visit Reeds Refillery, where you can stock up on almost anything and help the planet while doing it. From dried foods such as spices, nuts and pasta, to cleaning products and skincare – bring your empty bottles or containers and refill for a fraction of supermarket prices.
We also have a gorgeous independent bookshop, ebb & flo, filled with books over two floors, which hosts regular special events. Finish off a morning of brunch and shopping with a walk through the beautiful Astley Park, and pop into Barrica Wines for gifts and souvenirs.
AFTEROON
Jump in the car and drive over to Rivington Pike. We know it’s slightly away from Chorley, but it’s well worth a visit. There is plenty of parking across the area, but our go-to is the Lower House car park. From here, you can explore the beautiful surroundings, full of wildlife. Reservoirs, forests and moorland grace the landscape, with plenty of walking routes – some shorter loops and some longer options – but we’d always recommend visiting the Terraced Gardens. By this time, you’ll have built up an appetite, so it’s time to visit the Rivington Brewery Co. taproom. Grab a beer (brewed on site) and some food from one of the amazing independent vendors, then sit back and enjoy the glorious views.
Time to check into where you’re staying. We highly recommend the Cabins at Rivington. With stunning views and beautiful décor and details, it’s one of the most picturesque spots in the area. It’s also within walking distance of the best routes, pubs and eateries that Rivington has to offer.
Get more amazing day out ideas inside the latest edition of Lancashire Life.
EVENING
Head into Chorley town centre for a lively evening. Start with a delicious meal with us at Sun & Salt, specialising in Mediterranean-inspired small plates, speciality wines and cocktails. Let us host you for a few hours, then we’ll send you on your way to explore more of Chorley’s nightlife. There are many amazing venues to choose from, but here are a couple of our favourites: Riley’s Taproom & Wine Bar, Shepherds Hall Ale House and Malt ‘N’ Hops. If you’re a real ale fan, grab a Chorley Ale Trail booklet from one of the participating venues and follow the route around town (though we’d recommend starting early for that one). Don’t fancy a big night out? Why not see what’s on at Chorley Theatre? They host a variety of comedy shows, musicals, films and more.
DON'T MISS IN 2026
Chorley Flower Show
July 31 to August 2
The biggest event in Chorley’s calendar, this annual flower show takes over Astley Park, showcasing the best of the horticultural world in a stunning setting. Show gardens, professional demonstrations and much more take centre stage, making it an event that’s too good to miss for anyone with a green thumb.
chorleyflowershow.com
Chorley Live
October 2-3
A celebration of live music across Chorley, with multiple acts performing in more than 30 different venues each night. Expect everything from pop and rock covers in a pub to jazz in a bookshop.
chorleylive.com
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