Lancashire town Haslingden offers moorland walks and historic interest

Summarised from 4 outlets · Updated 4 Nov, 07:10 · Archive

Haslingden, a Lancashire town less than two hours from Barrow-in-Furness, attracts visitors with moorland scenery and the illuminated Halo landmark.

Haslingden, in the Rossendale Valley around one hour and 49 minutes by car from Barrow-in-Furness, is recommended as a day trip destination for those seeking somewhere different to explore. The town sits surrounded by dramatic moorland and combines countryside attractions with industrial heritage and modern landmarks.

The name Haslingden is believed to mean 'valley of the hazels' or 'valley growing with hazels'. Evidence suggests people were living in the surrounding area thousands of years ago. The town later developed into a market town and became an important industrial centre during the Industrial Revolution, particularly through its wool and cotton industries. It also became well-known for quarrying.

Hashinlden Flag, a locally quarried sandstone, was distributed around the country following the arrival of the railway and was used to pave parts of London, including Trafalgar Square. Although Haslingden's railway station closed to passengers in 1960, traces of the area's railway heritage can still be found around Helmshore.

One of the biggest draws for visitors today is the countryside surrounding the town. Haslingden is surrounded by high moorland and sits close to the West Pennine Moors. To the west is the Grane Valley, home to three reservoirs and popular with walkers. Nearby beauty spots include the Snighole at Helmshore. Visitors can also head to Victoria Park, which features a children's playground, bowling green, skate park and views towards Musbury Hill.

Perhaps Haslingden's most distinctive modern landmark is the Halo. The large artwork stands on hills above the town and forms part of a reclaimed landscape. Designed by John Kennedy, it opened in 2007 and lights up after dark. History can also be found throughout Haslingden itself. St James's Church occupies a prominent position above the town and stands on a site which has been associated with a church since at least the 13th century.

How it is being reported

• Underrated town less than two hours from Barrow with a glowing landmarkThose looking for somewhere different to explore on a day trip from Barrow could consider a Lancashire town surrounded by dramatic moorland.News & Star · 4 Nov, 06:00
• Underrated town less than two hours from Barrow with a glowing landmarkThose looking for somewhere different to explore on a day trip from Barrow could consider a Lancashire town surrounded by dramatic moorland.NW Evening Mail · 4 Nov, 06:00
• Underrated town less than two hours from Barrow with a glowing landmarkThose looking for somewhere different to explore on a day trip from Barrow could consider a Lancashire town surrounded by dramatic moorland.Whitehaven News · 4 Nov, 06:00
• Underrated town less than two hours from Barrow with a glowing landmarkThose looking for somewhere different to explore on a day trip from Barrow could consider a Lancashire town surrounded by dramatic moorland.Westmorland Gazette · 4 Nov, 06:00

In this story: Haslingden · Barrow-in-Furness · Rossendale Valley · West Pennine Moors · Grane Valley · London · Trafalgar Square · John Kennedy

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem · Corrections log