#2 of 13 things to do in Darwen

Bold Venture Park

Historic parkland, woodland paths and a gateway to Darwen Moor

A beautiful historic park with a lake, waterfalls, woodland walks, a children’s playground and paths leading towards Darwen Tower and the open moors.

Outdoors & Nature Parks & Green Spaces Family Friendly Free Attraction

Quick info

Currently cloudy at Bold Venture Park

Location

Borough Road, Darwen, BB3 2SD
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Accessibility

While lower paths around the lake are relatively flat, the park is built in a steep valley with many stairs and steep inclines as you head further up.

Best for

Best for scenic dog walks, family trips to the playground, and serving as the scenic starting point for hiking up to Darwen Tower.

A park that climbs into the moors

Waterfalls, woodland paths and a piece of Darwen history

Bold Venture Park follows the valley of Bold Venture Brook, with winding paths leading between mature trees, ornamental gardens, stone bridges, cascades and the park’s peaceful lake.

Opened in 1889 and now protected as a Grade II registered park, it is also home to Darwen’s impressive war memorial, historic features and a sculpture trail waiting to be discovered among the trees.

From playtime to open country

Family adventures below and bigger walks beyond

The lower park is ideal for a family visit, with a children’s playground, ducks and other wildlife around the lake, and plenty of paths for a shorter stroll.

Cross Manor Road into Higher Bold Venture Park and the landscape becomes wilder, with routes continuing directly onto Darwen Moor and towards Darwen Tower. Some paths are steep, stepped or muddy, so sensible footwear is recommended.