Black Brook and Great Hill Loop

Starting your adventure near Lancashire, England, the Black Brook and Great Hill Loop is a captivating 6 km (approximately 3.7 miles) trail with an elevation gain of around 200 meters (656 feet). This loop trail is rated as medium difficulty, making it suitable for moderately experienced hikers.### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transport. If driving, set your GPS to the nearest known address: Rivington Hall Barn, Rivington Lane, Rivington, Bolton BL6 7SB. For those using public transport, the nearest train station is Horwich Parkway. From there, you can take a local bus or taxi to Rivington Hall Barn.### Trail Overview The trail begins near Rivington Hall Barn, a historic site that dates back to the 16th century. As you start your hike, you'll be greeted by the serene waters of Black Brook, which meanders through the landscape. The initial part of the trail is relatively flat, making it a good warm-up for the more challenging sections ahead.### Key Sections and Landmarks

Black Brook

Approximately 1 km (0.6 miles) into the hike, you'll follow the path alongside Black Brook. This section is lush with greenery, and the sound of flowing water adds a tranquil ambiance. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as kingfishers and herons, which are often spotted here.#### Ascent to Great Hill After about 2 km (1.2 miles), the trail begins to ascend towards Great Hill. This is where you'll experience most of the elevation gain. The climb is steady but manageable, with occasional steep sections. As you ascend, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. On a clear day, you can see as far as the West Pennine Moors.#### Summit of Great Hill Reaching the summit of Great Hill at around the 3 km (1.8 miles) mark, you'll find a stone cairn marking the highest point. This is an excellent spot to take a break and enjoy the breathtaking views. The summit offers a 360-degree panorama, including views of Winter Hill and the distant cityscape of Manchester.### Descent and Return The descent begins after the summit, taking you through a mix of open moorland and wooded areas. The trail can be muddy in places, especially after rain, so sturdy hiking boots are recommended. As you make your way down, you'll pass through fields dotted with sheep and other livestock, giving you a taste of the local agricultural landscape.### Historical Significance The area around Rivington has a rich history. Rivington Hall Barn itself is a Grade II listed building, and the surrounding landscape is dotted with remnants of its past, including old stone walls and farmsteads. The trail also passes near the site of the former Rivington Terraced Gardens, created in the early 20th century by Lord Leverhulme, a notable industrialist and philanthropist.### Navigation For navigation, it's highly recommended to use the HiiKER app, which provides detailed maps and real-time GPS tracking to ensure you stay on the right path. The trail is well-marked, but having a reliable navigation tool can enhance your hiking experience.### Wildlife and Flora Throughout the hike, you'll encounter a variety of flora and fauna. The moorlands are home to heather, bilberry, and cotton grass, while the wooded areas feature oak, birch, and rowan trees. Wildlife enthusiasts might spot red grouse, rabbits, and even the occasional deer.This trail offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and moderate physical challenge, making it a rewarding experience for any hiker.