Pilgrim's Stone

There's a weathered stone marker near Bury that marks one of Lancashire's lesser-known pilgrimage routes. Pilgrim's Stone sits quietly off the beaten track, a simple but genuinely evocative reminder of medieval travel and faith journeys that wound through these valleys centuries ago.

What you're looking at is a wayside marker - the sort of thing that guided pilgrims heading to distant shrines. It's not flashy, and that's precisely why it works. History buffs will find it absorbing; kids under ten might wonder what the fuss is about after five minutes. The real appeal lies in the walk itself and the sense of stepping into something genuinely old, not a recreation or tourist trap.

This works best as part of a longer ramble through the Lancashire hills rather than a destination in itself. Pair it with a stay at Dearden Wood or the excellent Burrs Country Park Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite - both within easy striking distance - and you've got proper walking country. Allow an hour if you're treating it as a solo stop, but honestly, you'll get more from exploring the surrounding footpaths and letting the landscape do the talking.

Timing-wise, spring or autumn walks here beat summer crowds. The stone doesn't require much planning; it's free and accessible. Just check you've got decent directions before you head out - signposting can be sparse in this part of Lancashire.