A Day in the Spring Sunshine: Haigh Hall and the Whelley Loop
It seems that the spring sunshine has decided to join us and to help us put winter and February behind us. Yesterday being the first Wednesday of the month, it was time for the occasional walking group to convene, this time at Haigh Hall near Wigan, for a walk on The Whelley Loop and The Leeds and Liverpool canal.
Haigh Hall – A Stroll Through Centuries of History
Perched above the Douglas Valley, Haigh Hall is a grand 19th-century mansion with a history stretching back to medieval times. Built between 1827 and 1840 for the Earls of Balcarres, the hall replaced an ancient manor house and became the heart of a vast estate powered by coal and iron. The Lindsays, who owned the hall until 1947, played a key role in Wigan’s industrial growth, and their legacy is still visible in the hall’s striking architecture and sprawling parkland.
Today, Haigh Hall and its surrounding woodland park are a haven for walkers, cyclists, and families. The estate offers scenic trails, a miniature railway, and breathtaking views—making it a must-visit on any walk through Wigan’s green spaces. As you explore, you’re stepping through nine centuries of history, from medieval manors, the house is first recorded in the 13th century, to Victorian industry and beyond.
The hall is currently being renovated but in the grounds are walks and playgrounds and the visitor centre contains cafes, a bar, takeaways and shops.
The Walk
Our walk was to be about 7 miles following firstly local roads and then a disused railway track and then joining the tow path of the Leeds and Liverpool canal before walking back to our starting point at the visitor centre. Needless to say, the walk started with a coffee and a bacon butty and ended with a pint.
The Whelley Loop – Wigan’s Railway Past
The Whelley Loop is a historic railway line that once bypassed Wigan town centre, built to ease congestion and connect collieries and industries across the region. Constructed in the 19th century as part of the Lancashire Union Railway, the loop was a vital artery for freight—especially coal—and even saw passenger use during peak times, such as summer seaside specials to Blackpool.
Today, the loop is disused, but its legacy lives on. Walkers and cyclists can explore the route, which now forms part of the Bee Network, linking Standish, Wigan, and Ashton in Makerfield. The impressive Whelley Viaduct, with its 13 brick arches and iron spans, still stands as a testament to the engineering prowess of the Victorian era. As you stroll along this scenic path, you’re tracing the footsteps of industrial history, surrounded by woodland and the echoes of Wigan’s coal-mining past.
Kirkless Hall – A Glimpse into Wigan’s Industrial Heritage
Nestled alongside the Leeds and Liverpool Canal near Aspull, Kirkless Hall is a historic gem with roots dating back to 1663. Once the heart of a 59-acre estate, the hall was transformed during the Industrial Revolution, becoming the headquarters of the Kirkless Hall Coal and Iron Company in the 19th century. The estate’s coal and ironworks fueled Wigan’s industrial boom, and today, the hall stands as a proud reminder of the area’s rich past.
Unfortunately quite a lot of construction is taking place around the hall at present.
Nearby, the Kirkless Hall Inn offers a welcoming stop for refreshments, with its scenic canal-side setting and homemade Indian cuisine—a perfect reward after exploring the famous Wigan Flight of locks. Whether you’re a history buff or simply enjoying the outdoors, Kirkless Hall adds a fascinating chapter to your walk.
Below are some images of the canal. The canal rises 200 feet from Wigan through a series of 21 locks.
Haigh Hall Gardens – A Hidden Oasis in Wigan
Tucked within the sprawling estate of Haigh Hall, the gardens offer a serene escape from the bustle of modern life. Originally designed to complement the grandeur of the 19th-century mansion, these gardens blend formal elegance with natural beauty. You’ll find carefully tended flowerbeds, historic walled gardens, and tranquil pathways that invite leisurely strolls and quiet reflection.
The gardens are a living testament to the estate’s rich history, with features that date back to the Lindsay family’s ownership. Today, they provide a peaceful setting for picnics, photography, and simply soaking in the beauty of Wigan’s green heritage. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant blooms in summer or the crisp, golden hues of autumn, Haigh Hall Gardens are a charming highlight of any visit to this historic estate. Don’t miss the chance to wander through this picturesque corner of the park—it’s a true hidden gem.
Thanks to my co walkers for the use of some photos. Also thanks for the concern shown when I slid down an embankment on to the Whelley Loop thanks to my holding on to a tree which broke. Apparently I did a text book SAS roll. Thanks again guys! I’ve managed to stop the blood loss now.