2 Chorley – Brinscall – Feniscowles – Blackburn

Do you want to envelop yourself in a day of Lancashire at its very best and diverse? Your joyous journey ahead starts at the foot of the West Pennine Moors at the market town of Chorley - overlooked by Healey Nab which forms part of the moors – rich in history and scenery. Neighbouring Wigan, Blackburn, Preston and Manchester, Chorley offers a mixture of shops, sights and interest within walking distance.

Hold your horses though and prepare for your breath to be taken away, as within just 5 or 10 minutes, the number 2 bus will plunge you into beautiful countryside and before you know it, you will snake your way through the gorgeous village of lower Wheelton and be whisked via higher Wheelton, into Brinscall – a sleepy paradise overshadowed by the iconic sight of the Great Hill.

Next stop, via equally stunning vistas of fields, farmlands and charming stone-built houses typical of rural Lancashire, will ascend to Abbey Village, gateway to breath-taking walks and reservoirs.

You will start nearing Blackburn but not before a relaxing saunter through the peaceful and semi-rural village of Feniscowles overlooking valleys and hills. Look out for the sumptuous view of the ruins of Feniscowles Hall – a large mansion house built in 1808 by William Feilden MP and abandoned in 1911. You will still enjoy glimpses of trees, woodland and verge before the urban gear-change of lively Blackburn centre.

Sometimes it is the journey not the destination that makes an experience – and in this case, you will reap the rewards both as this journey is a joy in itself and a beautiful one at that.

Vibrant mix of independent shops, lively market (Tuesday, Thurs, Friday and Saturday), largest Mormon temple, Astley Park not to be missed.

Be charmed by Chorley

Begin your adventure in the lively market town of Chorley which offers a vibrant mix of independent shops, pubs and eateries, a lively market at its most bustling on Tuesday and a quintessentially English, chocolate box park which is not to be missed. Browse the covered market for local produce, enjoy a coffee at one of the cosy independent cafés and check out the beautiful views at Astley Park before making your way to the bus station.

Wander at Wheelton

Your first stop is the picturesque village of Wheelton, where the Leeds–Liverpool Canal winds its way past stone cottages and colourful narrowboats. A saunter along the towpath offers you peaceful, lovely waterside ambience. If you fancy a mid-morning refreshment, the Top Lock pub is a great choice, with canal-side setting or the Village Tea Room equally offers charm and hearty fayre at reasonable prices.

Be bowled over by Brinscall beauty

Next, the bus climbs towards Brinscall, a village surrounded by woodland, enchanting hills and reservoirs - a magical stop for walkers and nature lovers. A wonderful place to start is at the local landmark of Brinscall Baths where you can savour the beauty of Brinscall Lake (Croft Lodge) before entering stunning ancient woodland, atmospheric ruins and the gorgeous Hatch Brook Waterfall. You can walk along the ‘goit’ overlooked by plantations and end up at White Coppice which looks like a painting whose local cricket-ground takes centre stage and is surrounded by the glorious, rugged, heather-laden and sheep-smattered heights of Anglezarke reservoir.

Reservoir rapture at Abbey Village

A little further along, the bus will take you to Abbey Village, set right on the edge of the West Pennine Moors. This is walking country at best, with footpaths leading straight onto the moors and around the Roddlesworth Reservoirs. A gentle circular walk here offers peace, fresh air, and the chance to spot local wildlife such as herons and deer.

Ride to the Rover

We cannot mention Blackburn without mentioning its football history and prowess. Blackburn Rovers FC’s home is Ewood Stadium, where the bus stops before reaching Blackburn centre itself. Now part of the EFL Championship, Rovers was established in 1975 and while their success was largely before 1930 – two league wins and six FA Cup victories – they won the English Premier League in 2002. Previous managers include Graeme Souness and Kenny Dalgleish and you might remember their centre forward was Alan Shearer in the 90s! Rovers’ loyal fan base is still going strong through thick and thin.

Banquet at Blackburn

The Number 2 bus finally arrives in Blackburn, where history and culture meet. At the heart of the town stands Blackburn Cathedral, a striking landmark and focus of the town. Just a short stroll away is the Blackburn Museum and Art Gallery, filled with fascinating collections, from Egyptian artefacts to fine art. For shopping enthusiasts, The Mall offers a mix of high-street favourites and independent traders.

After a day of exploring, treat yourself to a well-deserved meal. The Bureau offers stylish dining with a mix of British and international dishes, while Calypso Caribbean Restaurant brings bold flavours, a burst of joy and reggae. For something truly local, one of Blackburn’s famous curry houses will not disappoint – Thira is a popular hotspot.

Still got some energy? Why not take in a play at Blackburn’s Empire Theatre or a show or gig at King George’s Hall which has played host to no less than The Beatles, David Bowie and The Clash in times gone past.

You’ll be ready for a hearty sleep end of day and do so with a big smile on your face!