Things To Do
Magical new illuminated nature trail to light up popular Rochdale lake this autumn
Who left the lights on?
Thomas Melia -
18th September 2024 
Those autumn walks are going to be better than ever, as a brightly-lit nature trail is hitting Hollingworth Lake this October.
Known for drawing visitors from all over Greater Manchester and the north west, this Rochdale country park is set to host an environmental art experience suitable for all ages.
Running from Thursday 24 October to Sunday 27 October 2024, walkers can expect the skies near Hollingworth Lake to be lit up by a magical variety of lanterns and light features inspired by animals, insects, and the surrounding wildlife.
Titled Wild Wanders, the event will be completely free, and is the creative genius of Rochdale Borough Council and international outdoor arts specialists Walk the Plank – with funding from Arts Council England and the Garfield Weston Foundation.
300 local school children, community groups, and artists have helped make the trail come to life.
This is a full sound and visual experience, as alongside the bright lights and captivating displays will be a soundscape of school children‘s voices describing their ambitions for a more environmentally-friendly world.
The event aims to show people what it could be like to live in a world that is biodiverse, carbon neutral, beautiful, and sustainable.
Advanced booking is advised, and visitors will have the option to select a 30-minute time slot between the events opening hours each night.
Parking and toilet facilites will be available on site, with accessible spaces for blue badge holders able to be requested when booking tickets online, and visitors can also purchase drinks and snacks from the nearby The Woodlands Cafe before or after the trail too.
“This will be something we’ve never seen before, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to another world,” teased Councillor Sue Smith, who is the cabinet member for communities and co-operation at Rochdale Borough Council.
“There will be something to captivate all ages, including hands-on elements and a kaleidoscope of colour featuring fire gardens, flowers, moths, stilt walkers, lanterns, woodland animals and much more.
“It will be bold and magical, so don’t miss your chance to get free tickets when they are released.”
Read more:
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- You can ALREADY book tickets for Greater Manchester’s beloved Santa steam train rides this Christmas
- Manchester’s iconic inflatable monsters are set to invade the city centre again this Halloween
Wild Wanders will run from 6:30pm to 9pm on 24 & 25 October, and 6pm to 9pm on 26 & 27 October – with free tickets available to book from 10am on Monday 23 September here.
Featured Image – Rochdale Borough Council
