Hollingworth Lake Countryside Park

Hollingworth Lake is located approximately four miles outside Rochdale town centre and around four miles from the M62 at Junction 21. The lake covers an area of one hundred thirty acres. Hollingworth Lake was man-made during 1801 to provide a water supply for the Rochdale Canal which is situated less than one mile away. Hollingworth Lake is mainly used for recreational purposes these days and is classified as National Trust owing to the nearby wildlife sanctuary.

Hollingworth Lake is used for an assortment of water sports like canoeing, sailing, swimming, rafting, rowing and angling. It is thought that Captain Webb used the lake to obtain swimming practise prior to his cross channel adventure. Hollingworth Lake Water Activity Centre offers up quality tuition in outdoor activities. This provision is open to schools, youth groups and to the general public.

In addition to the water activities Hollingworth Lake Park facility is home to a large network of path and woodland walkways which extend away from the lake towards the closest towns of Littleborough and Milnrow. Hollingworth Lake itself has a path that goes around its perimeter which is perfect to walk. This path is roughly two and a quarter miles round and is almost entirely flat, so can provide a fun and enjoyable walk for all ages and fitness levels.

During summertime, the Hollingworth Lake cruise boat.  "The Lady Alice",  is operational and carries customers from one side of the lake to the other, which is excellent for those who are unable to walk, or for those people who are just feeling lazy! If you are going to walk around Hollingworth Lake, you will find the Visitor's Centre with a childrens play area. The Visitor's Centre showcases local childrens artwork, exhibits items which have been recovered from the lake and it also incorporates a cafe.

Walking through the parkland is both educational and fun because if you go anti-clockwise around Hollingworth Lake you will arrive at the wildlife area which is about two thirds of the way around. Here you will be able to view an assortment of animals, primarily birds. Hollingworth Lake is an excellent venue for bird watching at certain times of the year. In addition to birds and depending on  the time of day you visit,  you may also see rabbits and possibly foxes.

If you want to go shopping then you are limited at Hollingworth Lake, but there is an amusement arcade, a cafe, an ice cream shop, two public houses and a fish and chip shop, so you won't go hungry and thirsty, or be bored should it rain. Hollingworth lake is a perfect spot for peace and tranquillity. Nevertheless, during weekends and school holidays it can get exceedingly busy, so be sure to plan your visit. Bearing this in mind, you will then be certain to have a really enjoyable time at the Hollingworth Lake Park Facility.