Pigeon Tower Rivington
A historic stone tower offering panoramic views, nestled within the picturesque Rivington Terraced Gardens and popular hiking routes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Pigeon Tower Rivington
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic stone tower offering panoramic views, nestled within the picturesque Rivington Terraced Gardens and popular hiking routes.
"A striking stone structure standing tall against the Lancashire landscape, offering breathtaking views."
Wear Sturdy Footwear :athletic_shoe:
Trails can be uneven; comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the gardens and surrounding hills.
Check Tower Opening Times 🎟️
The Pigeon Tower is open to the public at certain times; confirm access before your visit.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 764 reviews
Type
Historical Landmark
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Pigeon Tower
Rivington Terraced Gardens
A striking stone structure built in 1910, offering panoramic views and a touch of historical intrigue.
Rivington Terraced Gardens
Adjacent to Pigeon Tower
Explore the remnants of Lord Leverhulme's grand vision, with Italian-inspired features and lush greenery.
Panoramic Lancashire Views
From the Pigeon Tower and surrounding hills
Enjoy breathtaking vistas stretching across the landscape, especially stunning during sunrise and sunset.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds
Navigating the Terrain and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Footwear :athletic_shoe:
Trails can be uneven; comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the gardens and surrounding hills.
Check Tower Opening Times 🎟️
The Pigeon Tower is open to the public at certain times; confirm access before your visit.
Respect Drone Restrictions ⛔
Drones are not allowed in the area, so leave yours at home to avoid issues.
Drive Carefully :oncoming_car:
Access roads can be rough; ensure your vehicle is suitable and stay on marked paths.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Footwear :athletic_shoe:
Trails can be uneven; comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the gardens and surrounding hills.
Check Tower Opening Times 🎟️
The Pigeon Tower is open to the public at certain times; confirm access before your visit.
Respect Drone Restrictions ⛔
Drones are not allowed in the area, so leave yours at home to avoid issues.
Drive Carefully :oncoming_car:
Access roads can be rough; ensure your vehicle is suitable and stay on marked paths.
Capture the Sunset :camera_with_flash:
The views from the tower are spectacular at sunset, offering incredible photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Pigeon Tower and Rivington for its beautiful scenery, historical charm, and excellent walking opportunities. The panoramic views from Rivington Pike are a major highlight, and the Rivington Terraced Gardens offer a unique exploration experience. Some visitors note the lack of actual pigeons and limited facilities, but overall, it's considered a worthwhile destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs.
"Walked past it en route to Rivington Pike. The tower is open to the public at certain times. There are lovely views over the gardens and lots of great walking trails. Didn't see a single pigeon though!"
Small Gordy
"Always a nice drive up to Pigeon tower! Don’t drive unless your vehicle is legal and 4x4! And keep to the road not off piste!
Once up near the tower great to have a walk and look around the grounds always recommend a visit."
Darryl marks
"0.4 mile walk from Lower House car park.
Great views from there.
Terraced gardens are just next to it, and also many walk trails if in a mood for trips.
Just the only sad thing is that drones are not allowed there."
Jan Schwarzer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Pigeon Tower is accessible via Rivington Pike. Many visitors park at the Lower House car park and enjoy a short walk (approx. 0.4 miles) to the tower. Driving access is possible, but roads can be rough, so a suitable vehicle is recommended.
It's also a popular starting point for longer hikes to Winter Hill.
Yes, there is a car park at Lower House, which is a convenient starting point for reaching the Pigeon Tower. Be aware that some access roads might require a 4x4 vehicle.
Mountain biking is popular in the Rivington area, and routes can lead to the Pigeon Tower. 
Numerous walking trails surround the Pigeon Tower, leading through the Rivington Terraced Gardens and up to Rivington Pike and Winter Hill. The Japanese Lake and 'Small Italy' are also nearby attractions on popular walking loops.
Public transport options to the immediate vicinity of Pigeon Tower are limited. It's best reached by car or as part of a longer hike from nearby towns like Bolton or Chorley.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Pigeon Tower and the surrounding Rivington Terraced Gardens is generally free. However, the tower itself may have specific opening times for public access.
The Pigeon Tower is open to the public at certain times. It's advisable to check local information or visitor boards for the most up-to-date opening hours before your visit.
No, exploring the Rivington Terraced Gardens is typically free of charge, allowing visitors to wander through the historic grounds.
Yes, drones are not permitted in the area. Additionally, swimming in nearby reservoirs is strongly discouraged due to safety risks.
Yes, dogs are welcome in the Rivington area and on many of the walking trails, making it a great spot for dog walkers.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons, especially during the golden hour, offer beautiful light for photographing the Pigeon Tower and the surrounding landscape.
No, drones are not permitted for photography or any other use at Pigeon Tower and the surrounding Rivington Terraced Gardens.
Besides the tower itself, the Rivington Terraced Gardens offer many picturesque scenes. The views from Rivington Pike are also highly photogenic, especially with the expansive Lancashire landscape.
Unfortunately, drone usage is prohibited in this area. However, you can still capture stunning ground-level and aerial-style shots using other equipment.
While drones are not allowed, you can still capture impressive footage from various vantage points. Some creators have shared drone-style videos showcasing the landscape and tower.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Visitors can explore the historic Pigeon Tower, wander through the Rivington Terraced Gardens, and enjoy extensive walking trails with beautiful views. It's a great destination for hiking and enjoying nature.
A short visit to the tower and immediate gardens might take an hour, but many visitors spend 2-3 hours or more exploring the wider trail network and enjoying the scenery.
Facilities are limited in the immediate vicinity of the Pigeon Tower. It's advisable to bring your own refreshments and use facilities in nearby towns before or after your visit.
The Pigeon Tower, originally known as the Lookout Tower or Dovecote Tower, was built between 1905 and 1909 by Lord Leverhulme as part of the Rivington Terraced Gardens.
These gardens were once a grand estate designed by Thomas Mawson, featuring Italianate structures, water features, and diverse planting. While now in a state of picturesque ruin, they offer a unique historical and natural experience.
Social
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