Whitaker Clough

Valley in Lancashire Rossendale

England

Whitaker Clough

OS Benchmark locator Newchurch Old Rd Benchmark locator on a stone now used as a step down onto Newchurch Old Road, Bacup.
I assume this would have been located in the wall of the old road originally. — OS Benchmark locator Newchurch Old Rd Credit: Phill

Whitaker Clough is a picturesque valley located in the county of Lancashire, England. Nestled between the towns of Rossendale and Haslingden, this serene and idyllic valley is known for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere.

Spanning approximately 1.5 miles in length, Whitaker Clough is characterized by its lush greenery, rolling hills, and charming woodland areas. The valley is traversed by a babbling brook, which adds to its enchanting ambiance. The area is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering an array of walking and hiking trails that provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

One of the notable features of Whitaker Clough is its diverse wildlife. With its mix of woodlands, meadows, and waterways, the valley is home to a variety of animal species, including deer, foxes, rabbits, and numerous bird species. It is a popular spot for birdwatchers, who flock to the area to catch a glimpse of rare and migratory birds.

Additionally, Whitaker Clough is also home to the Whitaker Museum and Art Gallery. Housed in a historic mansion, the museum showcases a collection of local artifacts, artwork, and exhibitions that provide insight into the area's rich cultural heritage.

Overall, Whitaker Clough is a hidden gem within Lancashire, offering visitors a peaceful retreat in the midst of nature. Whether it's for a leisurely stroll, a birdwatching expedition, or a cultural experience at the museum, this valley has something to offer for everyone seeking a respite from the bustling city life.

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Whitaker Clough Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 53.711985/-2.2091498 or Grid Reference SD8623. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

OS Benchmark locator Newchurch Old Rd

Benchmark locator on a stone now used as a step down onto Newchurch Old Road, Bacup. I assume this would have been located in the wall of the old road originally.

Phill

Pinfold remains near Cow Toot Farm

A grade II listed structure.

Kevin Waterhouse

Pinfold near Cow Toot Farm

The pinfold is a prominent feature above Bacup and this view is from Bankside Lane

Kevin Waterhouse

Village of Weir

As seen from the edge of Heald Moor

Chris Heaton

464 to Accrington

Operated by Rossobus, the A464 is a service from Rochdale via Bacup, Rawtenstall and Haslingdon to Accrington. It runs at 15 minute intervals most of day, Monday to Saturdays and every half hour Sundays/Bank Holidays.

Gerald England

Former NatWest Bank

On the corner of Market Street and Bankside Lane. Although closed for several years now it still has an ATM in the wall.

Gerald England

The Queens

Also known as Little Queens. SD8623 : Sign of The Queens.

Gerald England

Sign of The Queens

Sign for The Queens SD8623 : The Queens.

Gerald England

St James Square

The roundabout in the centre of town is where the A671 from Rochdale to Burnley meets the A681 from Rawtenstall to Todmorden. The building on the left was originally the King George V pub. Now known as King George Chambers it is offices for an accountancy firm at the front and apartments at the rear. The Art Deco building in the middle was used as council offices It later became an electricity showroom and then a community resource centre. Now it is a hair salon. The brick building on the right was originally Woolworths.

Gerald England

Pioneer Building

On the corner of Rochdale Road and Alma Street. Home to a variety of businesses.

Gerald England

Maden Public Baths

The baths were opened in December 1893. Building News reported "Each entrance will be of sufficient width for double turnstiles in and out, in addition to a pass gate in the centre, with latch available for visitors, officials, etc, who are not bathers, so as to have a complete register. The women and first-class men use one entrance, and the second-class men the other. With this arrangement it is provided that women can occasionally have the use of the first-class swimming-baths within certain hours of the day. The position of the laundry is such as to make it convenient for the attendant to pass from thence to the women's baths (which are situated over the entrances) without loss of time. The laundry and washhouse, with drying-closet, are placed over the boiler-house, which is provided with two boilers. ... There are six slipper-baths for women, three of which would be considered first-class, and three second-class, the difference being principally in the fitting up of the baths with shower, etc. There are six slipper-baths for men, three of which will be first-class and three second-class; each will have a shower-bath. ... Each swimming bath is well lighted from the roof with inclined vertical lights." Link

It is now used as a community centre and includes a Youth Zone Link

and a Childcare Centre Link

Gerald England

Former School Board Offices

The building has been derelict since at least 2008 SD8622 : Former School Board Offices, No14 Rochdale Road, Bacup.

Gerald England

Broadclough Mill

On Burnley Road

Kevin Waterhouse

Waterside Mill remains

A listed building apparently being demolished

Kevin Waterhouse

The Laurels

A large imposing house now in use as a care home

Kevin Waterhouse

Bridge Arch on Old Meadows Road

Old OS maps do not indicate any purpose for this bridge, either tramway or path. It is fitting to be on the Irwell Sculpture Trail now and could be a piece of art

Kevin Waterhouse